Overprotection: a middlegame course

Extra defenders help when they free a piece for another job. Identify what each defender actually supports.

5 lessons, each followed by its own puzzle drill, then 10 themed puzzle packs.

• The Point Holds — Add useful support to an important square or pawn.
• Free a Defender to Maneuver — Use a defender that can leave without weakening the target.
• Attack from the Supported Square — Support a piece so it can choose when to attack.
• Calculate the Pawn Exchanges — Calculate the captures before relying on extra defenders.
• Keep the Square Protected — Choose a recapture that keeps the important square protected.