Have you ever wondered why strong chess players immediately grasp what is happening in complex
positions? The secret is pawn structures. The pawn structure dictates the game's flow and
different structures require distinct approaches. You can improve your game by studying a large
variety of pawn structures and the Hidden Laws of Chess. IM Nick Maatman invented the Hidden
Laws of Chess as an instructional tool to help his students bridge the gap between the basic
understanding of a club player and the next level of knowledge of Masters and Grandmasters. A
grandmaster knows from experience what pieces to exchange when facing an isolated pawn while a
club player wonders if he should keep his rooks on the board - or not. The Hidden laws go one
level deeper than the basic laws on piece development king safety or material balance. The
Hidden Laws will uncover elements such as space the quality of a pawn structure and a doubled
pawn's strength or weakness. Maatman will answer questions like: Are backward pawns the worst
in chess? What is the value of a space advantage? Could doubled pawns be an asset? How can I
win symmetrical positions? Using his coaching experience and writing with a touch of science
and philosophy Maatman will guide any ambitious chess player to the next level. His book
contains dozens of actionable tips instructive games and carefully selected exercises.
