Ready to wage war on the 64 squares? Before you can checkmate your opponent, you need to know how to set up a chess board correctly. Don't worry, it's easier than learning the Queen's Gambit!
First, ensure the board is oriented correctly. A white square should be in the bottom-right corner for *each* player. Remember: "White on Right!"
Next, place the pawns. These brave foot soldiers line up on the second rank (row) for both players. Now for the big guns! Start with the rooks in the corners, followed by the knights next to them. Then come the bishops.
The Queen always goes on her own color: white queen on white square, black queen on black square. Finally, the King takes the remaining spot.
That's it! You're now ready to play. So, go forth and conquer... after you've double-checked your setup, of course!
