The opposition and key squares
The foundation of pawn endgames
When the kings face each other with one square between them, the side not to move has the opposition. It decides win or draw in pawn endgames.
Key ideas
- Put your king in front of your pawn, not behind it.
- Take the opposition by facing the enemy king.
- Reaching a key square guarantees promotion.
When to use it
In every king and pawn against king endgame.