What are Private Chess Lessons?

Private chess lessons are essentially like chess classes, but they are typically held one-on-one between a student and a single coach. This is different from a classroom setting, where a coach teaches multiple students at once.

Where are private chess lessons held?

Private chess lessons are typically held in a location agreed upon between the student and coach. Most commonly, these can be held in a library, at the student's home, or online, using applications such as Zoom or LiChess.org for example. Sometimes, private chess lessons can be held at the coach's place of residence, a public area, a chess center, or at a school.

How much do private chess lessons cost?

This varies depending on the coach, and whether the lessons are held in person, or online. Note that because lessons are private, they generally will cost significanly more than a chess class with multiple students. Many coaches give discounts for booking multiple chess lessons in advance. A titled coach (grandmaster [GM], international master [IM], FIDE master [FM], national master [NM]) will typically charge more for chess lessons than a non-titled coach. A coach may also charge more based on how busy their schedule is. Prices between students and coaches are often negotiable, and contracts are typically agreed upon via word of mouth.

Who offers private chess lessons?

If you know a chess coach, you can ask him or her whether he or she is offering private chess lessons currently, and how much they charge.

Who should take private chess lessons?

Typically, chess students who play in tournaments are the ones most in need of / seeking private chess lessons. However, it is perfectly acceptable to take private chess lessons for casual players. A student should clearly communicate his or her goals for taking private lessons to their coach, so as to help the coach better suit their needs. Most commonly, chess students who take private chess lessons are kids.

What are the benefits / advantages of taking private chess lessons?

Private lessons are a great way to improve at chess more quickly, because they are personalized to fit your chess needs! A coach will find your strengths and weaknesses and give you homework so that you can improve the thing that is holding you back the most. Some coaches will attend tournaments in which their student(s) are playing, in order to provide support, and this is often at no extra charge! Scheduling times are also more flexible when a coach only has to work with one student at a time.

Need more info?

Please contact one of our Coaches, and they will be happy to tell you more about what they offer for private chess lessons!