Becoming an IM

Many decently strong players aspire to become an international master. They see very clearly that the grandmaster title is most likely beyond them but the IM title is one they feel they could achieve, if only...

It's this "if only" bit that gets in the way. If only... what? Do they need to study the openings more? Should they focus on improving tactical skill? Do they need to study the classics? Should they concentrate on endgames? Would it help to play blindfold?

There are innumerable books on the openings, a decent number on strategy and plenty on the endgame. However, if you want a book that explains at length the steps needed to improve your skills from those of a very good player to one of IM strength, you will look long and hard and probably in vain. Until now.

In this book, highly prolific author Cyrus Lakdawala maps out a route to take you along this journey. He is well qualified to do so as this is a journey he made himself (he did not shine as a junior) and so knows exactly what to do. He is brutally honest about his failures along the way and this will help readers to avoid natural pitfalls.

Lakdawala identifies the key mental, physical and psychological processes that need to be mastered to achieve IM standard making this book the ultimate chess self-improvement tool.

Cyrus Lakdawala is an International Master, a former National Open and American Open Champion, and six-time State Champion. He has been teaching chess for over 40 years, and coaches top US juniors.

Reviews

FM Carsten Hansen (American Chess Magazine)
“Lakdawala has, in my opinion, written many very good books; this one, I feel, is one of the most honest and therefore best, even if most of us will never become an IM, even after reading this book. Highly recommended.”

Jan Sybren Zagema (Schaaksite.nl)
“For many, achieving a title is an ambitious goal. While the grandmaster title may be too ambitious, becoming an international master is certainly achievable through hard work. In this book, Lakdawala draws on his own experience to illustrate the skills a player needs to take the next step toward achieving a title. With his signature style, he encourages the reader to take the initiative, while not shying away from his own shortcomings. For players who want to know what it takes to become a title holder, this book offers a solid starting point.”
(full review in Dutch)