Essential mates · foundation
Rook mate
Cut the king off rank by rank and finish with opposition.
The rule
The rook cuts off a rank while your king approaches and forces the defender back.
How to play it
- 1
Clear the rook file
Move your king off the rook file so the rook can reach the cutting rank.
- 2
Cut off the king
Place the rook across the king’s path while keeping it out of reach.
- 3
Bring up the king
Approach with the king until opposition lets the rook cut another rank.
Study the line, then play it
Step through the example. Then play your moves from the same position.
8
7
6
5
4
3
2
1a
b
c
d
e
f
g
h
Move 0 of 19
Starting position
Play through the line one move at a time.
Before you play
Moves to queue
- 1.King clears the rook file
- 2.Rook cuts off a rank
- 3.King approaches
Safe when
The enemy king cannot attack the rook or meet your king on the queued square.
Stop when
The king approaches the rook or the defender’s reply changes which opposition square is required.
Common mistake
Checking before your king is close lets the defender run back toward the center.
Deliver checkmate with rook and king.
Start with a comfortable clock. Reduce it when the position feels familiar. Your record is 0/0.