First steps on the big board: Getting acquainted with combinations in central positions and positions with a bundle. Part 6

25.02.2026

When taking their first steps on the large board, each beginner checkers player learns about a variety of combination mechanisms that can be applied in their game. One of the next stages in learning combination moves in the compulsory training program is the ability to use them in central positions and positions with a bundle.

Combinations in central positions and positions with ties in the center are varied and diverse. We will show you the first examples, but try to solve the last positions on your own.

Let’s get started with the lesson!

Example 1

White occupies the center, and Black’s checkers are too tightly packed to even consider looking for a combination. Here, a famous dialogue from the Russian film “DMB” is appropriate:

  •  Do you see a combination for White here?
    – No.
    – You don’t see it! But it’s there.

So:

  1. 25-20!  14:25
  2. 28-22!  17:28
  3. 32:19     9:20
  4. 27-22   18:27
  5. 37-31   27:36
  6. 47-41   36:47
  7. 33-29   47:24
  8. 34-29   25:34
  9. 39:6   Х
Example 2

The checkers converged. Black took White in a pincer movement. But they did not take into account the combination motifs.

So:

  1. 27-22!  18:27
  2. 31:22!  17:28
  3. 33:22   24:33
  4. 39:10   Х
Example 3

White checkers are in a pincer position. But Black’s position is too open.

The following should be done:

  1. 34-30!  25:23
  2. 28:19   13:24  (the other fight loses immediately)
  3. 22:13   8:19
  4. 27-22   17:28
  5. 32:3      Х
 

Example 4

Now try to solve the following 4 positions on your own.
Example 5
Example 6
 Example 7
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