Forks
One move, two targets. When there is no checkmate, this is usually the answer.
A fork is a single move that attacks two or more enemy pieces at the same time. The opponent can only save one. When a "best move" question has no checkmate in it, a fork is usually what the test is looking for.
The knight fork
Knights are the best forkers in chess, because a knight attacks squares no other piece can reach and cannot be blocked. A knight fork that also gives check is the strongest version of all — the opponent is forced to deal with the check, and you take the other piece next move.
Every piece can fork
- Knight — the classic, especially with check
- Queen — attacks in eight directions, so she forks from a distance
- Pawn — a humble pawn push can attack two pieces at once, and it is the cheapest attacker on the board
- Rook and bishop — line up two targets along a rank, file or diagonal
How to find one
Look for two enemy pieces that a single one of your pieces could attack from one square. Prioritize forks that hit the king, the queen, or an undefended piece.
Worked examples
What is Black's best move?
- a) ♕b4
- b) ♕b6
- c) ♕b5 ← correct
- d) ♕c3
♕b5 is a FORK: the Queen attacks the White King and Rook at the same time. White can only save one, so Black wins material next move. Look for one move that attacks two things.
What is Black's best move?
- a) ♕d1
- b) ♕f8
- c) ♕f4
- d) ♕d3 ← correct
♕d3 is a FORK: the Queen attacks the White Rook and King at the same time. White can only save one, so Black wins material next move. Look for one move that attacks two things.
What is Black's best move?
- a) ♕g4
- b) ♕f6
- c) ♕e7 ← correct
- d) ♕h6
♕e7 is a FORK: the Queen attacks the White Rook and King at the same time. White can only save one, so Black wins material next move. Look for one move that attacks two things.
Common questions
What is a fork in chess?
A move that attacks two or more enemy pieces at the same time, so the opponent can only save one of them.
Why are knight forks so strong?
A knight attacks squares no other piece can reach, and a knight check can never be blocked — only the king can move or the knight be captured.
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