Knight forks is lesson 4 of 7 in Real-game tactics 1: Free pieces and first tactics, a tactics course suited to players rated around 600 (beginners). The knight jumps, so its attacks cannot be blocked: perfect for hitting two pieces at once. It has 7 interactive exercises: 7 calculated lines from real positions. You play every move on a board and get feedback straight away. The lesson is free.
What you practise
Black to move: win material with a knight fork. (3 positions)
White to move: win material with a knight fork. (2 positions)
White to move: fork with the knight with check, and it is mate in 2. (2 positions)
Worked examples
Black to move: win material with a knight fork. 1...Nf2+ 2.Ke1 Nxh1. The knight on f2 attacked the king and the rook at once. You win the rook on h1 and come out 5 points ahead.
White to move: win material with a knight fork. 1.Nxf7 Qe7 2.Nxh8. The knight on f7 attacked the queen and the rook at once. You win the rook on h8 and come out 6 points ahead.
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