Data Entry

I have just begun compiling my opening repertoire into a tangible form which will allow me to review and study my particular lines. I guess in today's world note cards are a thing of the past.
Several different options of software are available and various methods to approach this monumental task but the results will be well worth it. Once entered, being able to search and update your opening lines with just a few clicks will be worth its weight in gold.

Currently Steve Lopez the "How To Guru Extraordinaire" of Chess Base fame is running articles on his approach to creating such a study book. Really cool read if you have the time.

Since this post is starting to run long I will have to continue this a bit later.

Return to Caissa

Ok I promised to give a brief run down of my extended absence once I had the time.
March was fairly normal until my Grandfather passed away. He was 94, his mind was still sharp but his body was just worn out. His health had been on the decline since January. Anyway I spent some time away from chess after his passing. Time with my family was and is way more important. Since my father and mother had been spending every waking moment by my Grandfather’s side this is the first chance we have had to see them in over 3 months even though they live 400 feet away. It's been really cool getting to hang out with them, and watching my son play with my dad.

Work, work, and more work. I have a stack of stuff with no end in sight. I even went in today to try and sketch out a plan of attack. Not that I'm stressing over the work load, I refuse to stress.
My boss has always taken good care of me, and I do what I can to make sure that his job is to never have to do any of my jobs. Anytime I can I try and take the strain off of him. Seems to work out really well for both of us.

The Chess Program.
Exercises.
I have resumed the 1000X CD where I last left off, and will continue to work through them until the Circles are completed.

Opening Study.
I'm spending a little bit of time each evening working on my opening repertoire.
Basically condensing main lines of the openings I play into a study database.
I take 3 or 4 sources and compile the database using the various assessments given by each of the authors. Time consuming to say the least, but it really paints a true picture of what can and can't be played in certain positions. Neat to see GM's disagree on what constitutes a favorable advantage.
The trick is to find out what kind of style you possess and the positions you like to play. Then find openings that fit your style of play. Some things you can force some you can't. If you don't know what your style is just pick something and learn it. The main thing is to avoid jumping from one opening to another just because you lose with it a few times. Just learn and have fun by getting a feel for the opening. It is amazing what it will do for your confidence level.

Time Off

Been away from the exercises the past week and a half.
Had to take a break, too much stuff going on to even try and explain.
Anyway, it is now time to get refocused and resume the exercises.