Key squares and the opposition is lesson 3 of 3 in Quick practice: king and pawn, an endgame course suited to players rated around 1050 (improving players). Two ideas decide most king-and-pawn endings. It has 2 interactive exercises: 2 exercises playing out a mate. You play every move on a board and get feedback straight away. The lesson is free.
What this lesson explains
Key squares: for a pawn on its 2nd to 4th rank, they are the three squares two ranks in front of it. For e2 that is d4, e4 and f4. If your king reaches a key square, the pawn will promote.
The opposition: kings facing each other with one square between them. The side that must move has to give way. Here White is already on the key square e4, so White wins no matter who moves.
What you practise
Your king stands on a key square. Win the game: promote the pawn.
Race to the key squares! Bring your king up first, then the pawn.
Worked examples
Race to the key squares! Bring your king up first, then the pawn. You have mastered the basic king and pawn ending.
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