Algebraic notation: a practical example
Nf3 means that a knight moves to f3; exd5 means an e-file pawn captures on d5. A plus sign indicates check, and a hash sign indicates checkmate. If two identical pieces can move to the same square, notation must distinguish them.
How to use the idea in your games
Replay a short game while writing each move yourself. Reliable notation helps you check AI explanations, preserve variations, and spot when a proposed move does not match the position.
A useful study question
Can you explain algebraic notation in your own words, identify it in a position, and describe when the idea does not apply? Test the explanation on a legal board before relying on it.
Connect the ideas
PGN, File, Rank are useful next concepts. Follow the links to compare definitions and examples, then return to the complete chess glossary whenever an unfamiliar term appears.
Sources & further reading
References checked September 5, 2026. Linked services are independent of ChessRankings.com™.