One of the fastest ways to improve at chess is to study how stronger players think — not just what moves they play. In this lesson, we’ll take a look at Smirnov vs Bologan.

Yes, we’ll analyze my blitz game where I defeated GM Victor Bologan, a 2700-rated Grandmaster who reached a peak FIDE ranking of World No. 18.

Before this win, Bologan had completely outplayed me in our earlier blitz games. But through those games and conversations, I noticed several advanced positional ideas that strong players apply almost automatically.

This victory did not come from a cheap trick or opening trap. It came from applying the lessons learned from a much stronger opponent.

You’ll learn: 5 advanced positional chess ideas such as how strong grandmasters improve their pieces and how to make better small decisions. I know many students have been asking for more advanced concepts, so here they are:

• Develop and disturb. Develop pieces while disturbing your opponent’s plans
• See the threat, but look for counterplay
• Invade, annoy and don’t retreat unless forced
• Grasp the initiative. Don’t give them peace of mind
• Find their move’s drawback. Assume that your opponent is wrong and it’s your job to prove it. Don’t trust your opponent’s threats blindly.

If you want to improve your chess strategy and decision-making, this lesson gives you practical ideas from a real game against a 2700-rated Grandmaster.

Smirnov vs Bologan: 5 Chess Rules I Learnt Video Lesson

Watch the full video lesson and try to participate in those moments I ask questions, so that you’ll remember the lessons better.

Below, you can find the complete chess game of Igor Smirnov vs Victor Bologan shown in the video:

Pair these tips with pattern recognition. Browse the Chess Tactics Lesson Guide. Access lessons on tactical motifs, patterns and combinations across all phases of the game.

These tips will surely help you improve your chess if you learn how to apply them. These helped me even when I was already way beyond 2000 ELO.

But if you haven’t reached 2000 ELO and would like to get a structured program that can help bring you to that level and beyond, we have assembled courses into a bundle that will help you achieve this goal. Check out our Boost Your ELO to 2000 Bundle.

Individually, the courses included here are valued at $486. But if you purchase them as a course bundle, then you can get them for only $197. That’s nearly a 60% discount!!