K + P Opposition: chess endgame

The rule that decides most king-and-pawn endings

Two kings facing each other, one square between: whoever isn't moving holds the opposition. Hold it and your king escorts the pawn home.

• Kings facing with one square between: opposition. Whoever moves first loses it.
• The side with the pawn wants the opposition so the king can escort it.
• Odd number of squares between, same file: the side not to move holds it.