Endgames
King activity
An active king participates in the endgame by attacking pawns, supporting passed pawns and controlling entry squares. Its activity becomes more important as dangerous attacking pieces disappear. King safety still requires concrete attention.
A practical example
In a pawn ending, a king on e4 can reach either wing faster than a king on g1. It can support a d-pawn and attack enemy pawns. The correct route depends on key squares and the opponent’s passed pawn.
A common mistake
Sending the king into the centre automatically after a queen exchange. Rooks, bishops and knights can still create mating nets or tactics. An active king must also avoid abandoning important pawns.
Try this in your next review
Compare two king routes move by move. Count when you reach an enemy target, checking the opposing pawn advance and the opposition at every step.