How to Start Learning Chess Online – A Beginner’s Plan

So you're thinking about learning chess online? Or maybe you’re a parent wondering how to get your child started with it? Good news—you don’t need to be a genius or a grandmaster to begin. With just a laptop, some free time, and the right direction, anyone can learn chess online from scratch.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through a simple, beginner-friendly plan to start your chess journey from home. This is especially useful if you're looking for online chess classes for kids, or professional chess coaching without stepping outside your home.

We’ve also added some tips based on what we do here at Kaabil Kids, a chess academy trusted by parents across India—especially in cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai and Bangalore.

Why even learn chess online?

Honestly? Because it just makes sense now.

Chess has moved online in a big way. And if you're a beginner, it’s easier than ever to learn through videos, live coaching, and even apps. You don’t need to go to a coaching center or wait for a weekend class. You just log in, and start learning.

Some reasons why people prefer online chess classes now:

• You save time (no traffic, no travelling).
  
  

• You can learn from top coaches anywhere in India.
  
  

• It’s flexible—you choose your own schedule.
  
  

• You can practice right after a class on apps like Lichess or Chess.com.
  
  

At Kaabil Kids, we offer chess classes online for kids with certified coaches. And we keep things fun, interactive, and easy to follow—especially for absolute beginners.

So, how do you even start learning chess online?

Let’s break it down in small steps. Simple and real. Just like how we teach our own students.

Step 1: First, decide why you wanna learn

Do you just wanna learn for fun? Or are you aiming to play tournaments later?

It helps to be clear. Some kids just wanna beat their cousins in Diwali matches. Others dream of winning national level competitions.

We have both types of learners at Kaabil Kids, and we design the classes depending on your goals.

Step 2: Pick the right online chess academy

Not gonna lie, there are tons of random websites out there. But if you (or your child) are serious, go with a chess training academy that has proper structure.

Here’s what you should look for:

• Coaches who’ve played in real tournaments
  
  

• A step-by-step syllabus (not just random YouTube videos)
  
  

• Progress reports or feedback after a few sessions
  
  

Kaabil Kids, for example, is one of the top-rated chess academies in India—with online chess coaching available And yup, we offer one-on-one or group options. You can even attend a trial class first.

Step 3: Start with the basics

Every beginner starts with the same thing: how the pieces move.

So don’t rush.

Take your time with:

• Pawn movement
  
  

• Rook, Bishop, Queen, Knight (and that weird L-shaped move)
  
  

• What is check and checkmate
  
  

• Castling, En Passant (you’ll learn this later, don’t worry)
  
  

We usually tell kids: “Learn it slow, but learn it right.” That’s how it sticks.

Step 4: Practice, but don’t just play for fun

A lot of kids make this mistake: they learn the rules, then just keep playing blitz games online. Fast games. No thinking.

That’s not how you improve.

Instead, focus on tactics and puzzles. Apps like Chess.com or Lichess are perfect for this. Or join a class where your coach gives you weekly puzzles. Like we do at Kaabil Kids.

This part is where you actually build strength.

Step 5: Get a coach (seriously)

You can watch YouTube all day, but you won’t know what you’re doing wrong unless someone tells you.

A coach is important—not just to teach, but to point out your mistakes, and show you how to fix them.

Our coaches at Kaabil Kids are trained to handle beginners. They’re patient. They give feedback after each class. Some of them are state-level champs. And they know how to keep kids focused without making chess boring.

This is where real chess coaching online makes a huge difference.

Step 6: Play slow games and review them

Play slow games. Like 30 minutes per side. This helps you think instead of rushing.

After you play, always review your game.

Ask:

• Where did I lose the piece?
  
  

• Did I fall for a trick?
  
  

• Could I have checkmated earlier?
  
  

In our online classes, we teach kids how to review their games using engines and human feedback. This is one of the most powerful learning habits, even for grown-ups.

Step 7: Stay consistent

You don’t need to study 4 hours a day.

But 30 minutes a day? That’s enough.

Stick to a routine. Something like this:

• Monday: Tactics
  
  

• Tuesday: Game review
  
  

• Wednesday: Live class
  
  

• Friday: Play a game
  
  

• Weekend: Tournament or coach match
  
  

Kaabil Kids helps students plan weekly chess routines based on their age and level. Because when it becomes a habit, improvement happens automatically.

Some common mistakes beginners make

Let’s be real. A lot of beginners mess up early because they:

• Play only fast games (blitz or bullet)
  
  

• Don’t analyze their losses
  
  

• Keep switching between coaches or platforms
  
  

• Try to memorize openings too soon
  
  

• Lose motivation because no one’s guiding them
  
  

Avoid these. Or better yet, learn with someone who knows how to guide you.

Why Kaabil Kids?

We aren’t just another chess academy online. We're a group of passionate coaches who care about kids actually learning chess—not just watching videos and forgetting it all.

What makes us different:

• Certified coaches with tournament experience
  
  

• One-on-one attention
  
  

• Recorded sessions for revision
  
  

• Weekly feedback for parents
  
  

• Affordable online chess class fees (no hidden charges)
  
  

Our students come from all over India—Delhi, Chennai, Mumbai, Bangalore, and even outside India. All they need is a will to learn, and a little bit of time every week.

Final Thoughts

Chess is not just a game. It’s a way to build patience, strategy, and focus. And the best part? You don’t need to step outside to get started.

Whether you're a total beginner or just someone looking for chess lessons online, this is your sign to start. And if you’re looking for guidance, coaching, or even a free trial class, come join us at Kaabil Kids.

You’ll be surprised how far a few simple moves can take you.