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In more complex pawn endings sometimes it is important to know whether two isolated passed pawns can win without the support of the king. In this situation we are helped out by the rule of the “common square”, formulated by A. Studenecki in 1939. The “common square” is a square the length of the […]
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If we move the pawns one rank back, they will not be able to win without the support of the king. But if the white king is far, the pawns will perish since they will not be able to defend each other. The common square ends on the seventh rank. This means that the […]
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Let us now consider a position with pawns three files apart. The common square does not include the eighth rank so it is obvious that the pawns cannot reach the promotion square on their own. Nevertheless, it is important to know that they are invulnerable to the attack of the black king. The […]
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Let us now consider a position with pawns two files apart. When pawns are on the fifth rank, the common square includes the eight rank so they win on their own! Notes to remember: ← Basic EndingsBasic Endings →
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The common passed pawn’s square now includes the eighth rank. This means that the pawns will win without the support of their king. Black is in zugzwang and white pawns will decide the game. ← Basic EndingsBasic Endings →
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2.2. King and Two Pawns versus King The two pawns as a rule ensure a simple win. When the white king is near, the win is straightforward. However, with the rook pawns, some problems may arise. Connected pawns that mutually protect each other always win! Even when the white king is far away, the […]
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