First steps on the big board: Getting acquainted with combinations in central positions. Part 5

18.02.2026

When taking their first steps on the large board, every beginner draughts 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.

The combinations in the central positions are varied and diverse. We will show you the first examples, but try to solve the last positions yourself.

Let’s get started with the lesson!

Example 1

The white piecess are scattered, while the black ones occupy a central position and adhere to the principle of density. Who among beginners could have imagined that after a few moves, the white piecess would be checkmated on square 1

  1. 27-21!  17:26
  2. 30-24!  19:30
  3. 25-20!  15:33
  4. 39:17   30:50
  5. 42-38   11:22
  6. 38-33   50:28
  7. 37-31   26:37
  8. 41:01   Х
Example 2

The final blow is not immediately apparent, but it is there. And we really want to use the “lattice” of Black’s position for White. An original Turkish attack will help us.

  1. 30-24!  20:29
  2. 39-33!  29:38
  3. 47-41!  38:47
  4. 48-42   47:31
  5. 37:10  Х
Example 3

The simplest version of Philip’s move. But in response to Black’s subsequent attack 24-30, White must demonstrate excellent preparation in combinatorics to his opponent.

  1. 33-29!  30:39
  2. 29-23!  18:29
  3. 38-33   29:38
  4. 32:34   21:23
  5. 34-30   25:34
  6. 40:7    Х
Example 4

Now try to solve the following 4 positions on your own.
Example 5
Example 6
Example 7
Telegram_logo Icons8