Tactical Thursday Advanced Calculation Techniques February 12, 2025 + PGN

We are excited to present Advanced Calculation Techniques, a new course by GM Davorin Kuljasevic, based on his January 2025 Tactical Thursday lectures. This course takes a structured approach to developing elite-level visualization skills and calculation techniques that are essential for every ambitious chess player.

This course is a continuation of the Tactical Thursday training series, following Typical Calculation Mistakes and Structured Calculation – Master the Ply Theory. If you have already studied these courses, this new installment will take your calculation abilities to an even higher level.

The material is divided into two core sections:

1. Visualization Techniques

In this section, GM Kuljasevic introduces three advanced visualization methods designed to improve your ability to see deeper into the position, track changes more accurately, and enhance calculation precision. These techniques are best suited for training and will help you develop a sharper tactical eye in your games.

• Visualizing Status Changes – Track the movement of pieces, squares, diagonals, and files as they change throughout the variation.
• Dynamic Visualization – Practice calculating with absolute accuracy, evaluating material balance, piece interaction, and the final position’s assessment.
• Deep Visualization – Develop the ability to calculate long tactical sequences (4-6 plies or more) with precision and confidence.

While working on these exercises, accuracy is more important than speed. Returning to the starting position and refining your visualization skills is encouraged. Overcoming resistance in tough calculations is a key part of improvement.

2. Working with Studies – The Art of Pure Calculation

The second section of the course focuses on solving endgame studies, one of the most effective ways to improve calculation technique, tactical vision, and structured thinking.

As Capablanca famously said, “The study of chess should commence from its final part—the endgame.” Endgame studies help train pure calculation by presenting clear and instructive solutions in positions stripped of unnecessary distractions.

• Structured Calculation Approach – Apply Ply Theory techniques to break down complex studies logically.
• Develop Tactical Vision & Imagination – Learn how to recognize tactical patterns, piece coordination, and the hidden geometry of the chessboard.
• Overcoming Resistance – Studies increase your tolerance to frustration, improving your mental endurance and emotional stability during practical play.

Unlike standard tactical puzzles, endgame studies often contain hidden traps, requiring you to anticipate the opponent’s best defensive resources. Mastering this skill directly translates to stronger performance in real games.

What’s Inside?

✅ Deep Theoretical Concepts – Learn cutting-edge calculation techniques used by top players.
✅ Practical Training Material – Structured exercises to reinforce visualization and deep calculation.
✅ Video Version (Approx. 6 Hours) – GM Kuljasevic explains key methods in detail.
✅ Practical Test Positions – Train like a professional with hands-on exercises.

Whether you are looking to sharpen your visualization, improve your calculation depth, or refine your tactical intuition, this course is an essential addition to your training arsenal.