IM Thomas Willemze is a popular author, Chessable creator, and trainer who has worked with the Dutch National Youth Team, among countless other students. A data analyst by day, Thomas brings an analytical approach to thinking about the core components of chess improvement.
In our conversation, we draw on Thomas's experiences as both a player and coach to tease out practical lessons for improving players. We discuss everything from game review and opening preparation to how to improve your focus while studying and playing. Thomas also shares some book recommendations, reflects on learning chess from the creators of the Steps Method while they were still developing it, and recounts what happened when, at age 40, he gave himself a year to seriously pursue his GM ambitions.
Timestamps of topics discussed can be found below.
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00:00 Introduction to the Interview with Thomas Willems
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02:01 Introduction to IM Thomas Willemze
04:07 The Intersection of Data Science and Chess
07:09 Thomas’ Training and Coaching Philosophy
09:55 The Chess Steps Method and Early Chess Education
mentioned : Rob Brunia and IM Cor van Wijgerden
15:36 Addressing Weaknesses and Improving Skills
Mentioned: Fundamental Chess Endings, Dvoretsky’s books, GM Yury Averbakh’s books
18:08 Common Pitfalls for Adult Players
20:51 Patreon mailbag question:
How can we improve our focus when playing games and studying?
23:55 Defensive Awareness and Identifying Threats
27:00 Patreon mailbag question: Does Thomas see parallels between chess and football/soccer strategy?
28:48 The Balance of Attack and Defense in Chess
30:28 Effective Study Strategies for Ambitious Players
32:07 Reviewing Games: Learning from Mistakes
33:34 The Competitive Landscape of Modern Chess
38:26 Preparing for Upcoming Tournaments
40:05 Choosing an Opening Repertoire
42:01 Current Projects and Future Endeavors
44:08 Chess Content Recommendations and Personal Interests
Mentioned: 100 Endgames You Must Know
50:00- Thanks to IM Willemze for joining me. You can reach him via his Chessable author’s page:
https://www.chessable.com/author/Willemze/