![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
The Second Directive |
||||
"Identify your weakest framework stone and adjacent framework link!" Perhaps the commonest error in kyu level play is not to look! Every time your opponent plays a stone, the situation has changed but it is so very easy to react superficially by examining only the effects in the immediate vicinity. If obeyed, the second directive solves this problem. But be warned! Unless you are an incredibly disciplined person, it will take some considerable practice before you can automatically look at the framework status after each and every opponent move. An effective way to encourage the second directive habit is to put an arrow sticker on the underside of your framework stones. Having, before the game, come to an understanding with your opponent, immediately after each of your opponent's plays, obey the second directive and then turn over the weakest framework stone with the pointer angled towards the weakest link - if two links appear to be equally weak, then choose an intermediate angle. Make certain that you turn over the framework stone before you consider your response - otherwise you may unconsciously select the framework stone to match your move rather than the other way around. After due consideration and obeying the prime directive, make your move and then, finally, turn the framework stone back again to hide the sticker. This may seem laborious, but stick with it until you can do this without fail and without much conscious effort throughout an entire game. You may then dispense with the physical turning over of the framework stones and progress to merely visualising the process. If you should find yourself relapsing, then go back to the physical process for a couple of games. Towards the end of a game it becomes much easier to determine which links and framework stones are under attack. Indeed, the framework status tends to become static. This is the most dangerous time! Complacency is the enemy! Because the viable framework links have been fully established and are not under immediate attack, you may not bother to look. For dozens of moves this will not matter - until suddenly disaster strikes!
¨Identifying the weakest framework stone - example |
||||
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |