The first set of moves makes up an opening,

and there are a ton of them.

Many resources, both in print and on-line, provide information on the actual

moves of openings, and initially the only way to acquire a grasp

of any of them is through study.

After playing opponents of varied skill, though, you will begin to notice

the openings for which you have failed to prepare-

-try to find out what these are called and how to defend against them.

Not when you're actually playing, though; study is for the comfort of your den,

not when locked in the grips of battle.

Concentrate while you're playing; study openings beforehand.