Rook endings · foundation
Rook vs passed pawn
Stop an advanced pawn with checks from behind and the side.
The rule
Check from a safe distance to gain time for your king to reach the pawn.
How to play it
- 1
Get checking distance
Check from the side or behind without letting the king attack the rook.
- 2
Bring up the king
Use the checks to gain time for the king to reach the pawn.
- 3
Collect the pawn
Take only when the defending king cannot protect the advance.
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 5
Starting position
Play through the line one move at a time.
Before you play
Moves to queue
- 1.Rook check from distance
- 2.King approaches
- 3.King captures the pawn
Safe when
The pawn is fixed and the defending king cannot attack the checking rook with tempo.
Stop when
The pawn advances with check or the king approaches the rook.
Common mistake
Blocking with the rook lets the enemy king attack it while the pawn advances.
Win the pawn, then complete the rook mate.
Start with a comfortable clock. Reduce it when the position feels familiar. Your record is 0/0.