I felt like my opponent played some really weak moves in this game and I was surprised to find I lost to him. I'm curious what tips people may have on approaching strategy differently because I feel like I have no excuse to lose games like this.

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Thinking like a go player during a game of chess is like bringing a knife to a gun-fight. Thinking like a chess player during a game of go feels like getting knifed while you're holding a gun...

Some comments on the opening. There is also lots could be said about the middle game, but think about these comments and you will see that you could have had the game won before the middle game.

B9: If you are going to play the two point jump don't play B4 first. The two point play leaves an invasion point for later but you have already make it impossible to jump into the 3-3. Also, it would be better on the 4th line as all your stones on the left at low.

B13: You should punish white for not playing C17. Exchange D17 for E17 first before playing this move. It would take the corner and prevent white from attaching at C17. White probably should not play E17 in response to D17 for this reason, but should extend at the top.

B15: Why? Ifyo play the normal move of B17 first white will reply at D17. Would you then play D16?

B19: You should not leave this. If you play on leaving it now you should do so earlier instead of adding stone which allow white to capture and easily live. If you connect now and white does not reply you cut at E17 so white must answer. You still get to play this move.

B25: White has deviated from normal by playing on the 5th line. This leave plenty of room to invade. White has already forced you into an ideal extension at Q10 so what is the rush? K15 is probably bigger. You can also play E17 now and isolate the two white stones given tat you have a stong position on the right. N3 is a point to consider before white gets another move in the corner.

E5: wrong direction and small. It allows white to secre the bottom and remove N3 as a threat.

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Still officially AGA 5d but I play so irregularly these days that I am probably only 3d or 4d over the board (but hopefully still 5d in terms of knowledge, theory and the ability to contribute).

Sure, your opponent made mistakes. So did you. If the ratings are right -- a big question on OGS, IIUC --, you should lose frequently to this opponent. Do not underestimate your opponents, even when they make weak moves.



Main focus: Threats. Make threats and carry them out.

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The Adkins Principle:
At some point, doesn't thinking have to go on?
— Winona Adkins

Visualize whirled peas.

Everything with love. Stay safe.

Many thanks as always, gentlemen.

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Thinking like a go player during a game of chess is like bringing a knife to a gun-fight. Thinking like a chess player during a game of go feels like getting knifed while you're holding a gun...