Introduction to Chess Tactics: Decoys

In the section on removing the guard, we looked at situations where we want to remove an enemy piece from its current position. Sometimes, however, it is to our advantage to lure an enemy piece onto a particular square. We can win material by decoying an enemy piece onto a square where it falls victim to a fork or skewer, or we can even achieve checkmate by decoying the enemy king onto a square where he can be surrounded.

Sometimes the threat of a decoy can lend protection to an otherwise unprotected piece. Here is an example:

Decoys are also often used to lure the enemy king onto a square where he can be checkmated.

When deciding whether or not to employ a decoy, take a look at how forcing it is. Is your opponent forced to accept the decoy, or can he ignore it, and will that be to your disadvantage? Here is a warning:

Your turn

Decoys are a more advanced tactic than the ones we've looked at previously, as they require the ability to look more than one move ahead. See how well you do at spotting decoys on the boards below, but don't worry if you can't spot them yet.