Studying miniatures has many benefits. First, almost always, the winner wins quickly because the loser did something (really bad) that s/he should not have done in the opening. Second, related to the first reason, one learns what not to do. Third, related to the first and the second, one learns how to finish off a game when an opponent misplays the opening. Fourth, miniatures do not as much time as longer games to analyse or go over. Fifth, miniatures are usually tactical in nature, thus one gets to see tactics in (game) action. Sixth, one can easily replay the whole game from memory. [I think there are benefits to that.] Last, but not least, they are exciting [at least to me].
Here is a game between Mayet and Anderssen that I have annotated. The latter was one of the best-attacking players of his time.
Lessons learnt from White’s play:
- Don’t castle into the line of fire, unless you are sure you will survive it.
- Don’t go piece grabbing if it is going to cost you the game.
Lessons learnt from Black’s play:
- When you are ahead in development, opening up the position, even at the cost of a pawn or a piece may pay off huge dividends.
- Winning the game is more important that having more pieces.
Your comments, ideas, and thoughts are welcome.
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