What went well?

  • I played my 1000th rapid game on Chess.com
  • In addition to my normal tactics, I have been doing Lichess opening tactics.
    • Through July 10 I had: 155 puzzles, 93 correct (60%), +293 points (1386 start)
  • I restarted working on the Chess Steps Level 2 workbook
  • I’m very slowly working on Complete Endgame Manual
  • I started working on a new opening against 1. d4. I’m using the Keep It Simple For Black. I like it better than what I had, but there is a lot of work ahead of me.
  • I fought back from a very losing position in a game (Stockfish says my opponent was +10) and won! I feel like it was a bit of a turning point, but we’ll see.

What could have gone better?

  • Looking at that list above, there is a lot. I’m not sure if I should be focusing on one thing or a little bit of a lot of things.

What will I try next?

  • Having a second lesson with a new coach where he said we would be doing some tactics evaluation and then he’d give me homework.
  • Next week I’ll be taking a break from chess for a week while on vacation. I’m bringing one chess book, but no games, no chessable, no endgames. Just a bit of time to recharge.