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How do I improve from here? I want to start learning theory but don't know where to start

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kyenaus

I started playing chess in 2021, and I reached my current rating for the first time 1 year later. From there I've had periods of time where I reached 1500 rapid, or fell back to 1200. I played on and off. Some months I played 0 games, while other months (especially the first ones) I played A LOT. The thing is, it's kinda obvious right now that I pretty much stopped progressing with my "method" (=only playing games without studying). I'm open to start studying theory, but I don't know where to start. Could someone please take a look at my games and recommend a study route (books, courses, videos)?

Toldsted

Congratulations. You have achieved a reasonable playing strength and have discovered that you have to study to get better. It's a misconception that you need someone else to look at your games to find potential for improvement. You are the one who needs to look at your games! This is the second most important thing to improve! The most importtant thing is to keep having fun and don't give up.

However, without having seen your games, I'm sure of one thing: you're losing too many pieces. Practice keeping an eye on your own and your opponent's uncovered pieces. Practice basic tactical motives.

Find a decent chessbook and read it! It will improve your understanding a lot.

You should also practice endgames. It's the best way to improve quickly. Even if your games often don't reach the endgame.

You will be encouraged by many to learn opening theory. Don't do it yet. It won't make you better, but it takes a lot of time. Wait until you have improved your playing strength.

tygxc

@1

"only playing games without studying" ++ Key is to play and analyse your lost games.

"where to start" ++ Start with endgames.

"books" ++ Chess Fundamentals - Capablanca