Chess Coaching Advice for IM Masha Klinova

Coach Chesswick

What You're Doing Well

Masha, your recent games show solid strengths especially in your opening choices and execution. Here are the highlights:

Your performance with the Caro-Kann Defense stands out, with a 75% win rate. You have a good grasp of this opening's ideas which often gives you a winning edge in the early game.
The French Defense: Advance Variation is another strong point, where you have a perfect record in your recent 4 games. It’s clear you understand the strategic plans and pawn structures involved here.
You tend to capitalize on early tactical chances well, such as demonstrated in your recent wins where you successfully exploited opponent mistakes and converted material advantages.
Your win rate, adjusted for opponent strength, around 50% is a solid indicator of a balanced competitive level.
Your 6-month and 12-month rating trends slope upwards significantly, illustrating consistent improvement over time, which is encouraging.

At the same time, to continue progressing, focusing on these will help further strengthen your overall play:

The Blackburne Shilling Gambit and Four Knights Game have lower win rates, especially the Four Knights where you've yet to secure a win. These openings might need deeper study or alternative repertoires to avoid early disadvantages.
Your games suggest some challenges in handling complex middle games and endgames under pressure. For example, in your recent loss to ralphcrocks from the Four Knights Game, you faced pressure in the endgame and could work on piece coordination and defensive resourcefulness in such positions.
Although your 3-month trend is slightly negative and 1-month trend shows a down slope, this may indicate short-term fluctuations. It's important to maintain focus on consistent training and game review to avoid dips.
Focus on consolidating advantages and avoiding unnecessary risks in critical positions. This will improve your conversion rate from better positions.
Consider dedicating time to study endgame principles and defensive techniques, which often determine the outcome in tight matches.

Review your games, especially losses and draws, using an engine or coach to identify inaccuracies and missed opportunities.
Expand your opening repertoire by experimenting with a few well-studied alternative lines, particularly in the openings where your results are weaker like the Four Knights Game.
Practice endgame scenarios regularly, including king activity, basic pawn endgames, and rook endgames to boost your confidence.
Keep playing rapid games but also incorporate slower time controls occasionally to deepen your strategic understanding.
Work on mental stamina and time management during games to maintain focus until the end, as quick time controls can pressure even strong players.

With your evident commitment and steady progress, these improvements can help you climb steadily back to and beyond your previous peak ratings.