Time Controls
What is a flag in chess?
- Clock
- Practical
- Time
Flag is a clock-management term: part of an analogue chess clock, usually red, that indicates when the minute hand passes the hour. To "flag" someone means winning the game on the basis of the opponent exceeding the time control. The practical skill is choosing moves that fit the clock without ignoring tactics.
What to look for on the board
- Clock pressure.
- Whether increment changes risk.
- Simple moves that keep control.
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