Phases & endgames
Pawn endgame
Kings and pawns only — the purest test of calculation.
What is the pawn endgame?
A pawn endgame has nothing left but kings and pawns. With no pieces to muddy the picture, everything comes down to precise calculation: the opposition, key squares, the spare tempo, and whether a pawn queens by one move.
Why the pawn endgame matters
Pawn endings are the foundation of all endgame play, because every other endgame can simplify into one. Get them right and you convert won positions and save lost ones; get them wrong and a single careless king move throws the point away.
How to use it to win
Master the opposition and the rule of the square first, then count tempi exactly. When you can, calculate the pawn race to the very last move — and remember that the king is a strong piece here, so push it forward.
Try an example puzzle
A real pawn endgame puzzle from the app. White to move — find the idea, then reveal the line.
5 
Show solution
1. Kxh5 Kf6 2. Kg4
Drill the pawn endgame on thousands of real puzzles, matched to your rating.