Magnus Carlsen shared his opinion on solving puzzles during play in the Titled Tuesday on January 13. Magnus explained that puzzles are not helpful in real games because they differ from actual game positions.

Magnus Carlsen

Magnus Carlsen

Five-time world champion

“This is why you don’t do puzzles, kids! Because, if this is a puzzle, you see this immediately. But in puzzles, you’re trying to see puzzles, while in games, you’re not! It’s not that helpful.”

Opinions of chess players worldwide on solving puzzles vary. Some consider them an important tool for improving chess skills, while others see them as a distraction from real game positions. Puzzles remain one of the most popular tools for studying chess theory, alongside reviewing games and studying openings.