How to study openings

I spent 10 years playing e4 and not liking most of blacks replies. I did venture into the Sicilian as black, but really didn't understand that either. I was practicing the assumption that you master 1 opening before doing another. Looking back I would change my approach and today I will share it with you.

I stand by the idea that is good do try new openings to see what is out there. Then finding what openings you want to grow with is the better way to go. I did read a opening encyclopedia ventured into studying a database but didn't do well with that adventure as well. So what would I do differently? Below are the three tools you can use to learn openings better. After that I will expand on how to use each tool.

In many openings there are transpositions meaning two different variations to play can reach the same position. It is also a good to know common moves for an opening aka where the pierces go as well as the middle game plans for white and black.

Step 1: Using a database
The moves give you an idea of what moves are made in an opening (you can try out a few openings if you don’t like what you are playing currently or want to try something new. The way I suggest using a database is to study one variation for about 5-7 moves or until castling. I would then assess how comfortable you are in that position for both sides. Do you like it? If not look at other variations or move orders.
https://www.chess.com/explorer

Step 2: Fact check your database

In the common variations of chess most reputable openings are a draw with perfect play. The one thing to watch out for is when the computer says you are -1.0 or more negative. This means you are a pawn down and with best play the game will result in a loss. So if your opening line is -.9 you are still good ;-D. I play the Alekhine, as black, and it gives my score a -.7 and the, Kings gambit as white, is -.50. this means that both of these openings are less favorable. Bear in mind that if you are at the top level even openings that re less favorable can still result in a win. We are all human. It is also good to see the opening from both sides to see weaknesses in each play and assessing how you like the opening or don't like the opening. You can access the computer assessment for this information by clicking the magnifying glass icon on the lower left on your screen below the database moves. If you hover over it says "analysis"from the link above.

Step 3: Practice both sides of a particular opening

3-5 live games with a time control each side if you wish and I recommend top play the opening test out . This should give you a rough idea on how things will work for you. You don't have to experiment with openings if you are not ready. You can also hone in on your opening repertoire with these practices. Above all else know why what was made rather than memorizing 15 lines book encyclopedia moves. Why not? Because when on move 5 your opponent makes a non book you are without resources, so learn why moves are made as you go along. Then you can go 10-15 moves deep.

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