Master · Unit 3 · Tournament Preparation

Opening prep: build a repertoire tree

Full trees with model games, not memorized move lists.

Step 1 of 3

Concept

Opening prep: build a repertoire tree

Below master, prep is memorizing moves. At master level, you build a tree: branches by opponent response, each leaf a model GM game showing the plan. Study positions, not moves.

Cover three branches: your main weapon, a surprise weapon for must-win games, and solid drawing lines for must-not-lose ones.

Remember

• Build trees, not move lists. Branches by opponent response.
• Every leaf ends with a model game: a GM showing the plan in action.
• Know the typical pawn structures and endgames for each branch.
• Keep a surprise weapon (something offbeat) for must-win games.
• Use Lichess Studies or ChessBase: cloud-synced, shareable, versioned.