Life In 19x19

Posted: **Sat Feb 15, 2014 5:30 pm**

I started playing last August. I'm the 24k. This was played on OGS with a 14min clock and 10x1min byoyomi as defined by the 23k.

Lately I've been doing more reading than playing. Also I've noticed that I'm 2 or 3 stones weaker in real-time play than turn-based, so I've endeavored to play many more real-time games for the time being.

This game is indicative of my current abilities...
- a dreadful start which I just barely manage to keep from becoming an unmitigated disaster
- a better stretch of play (IMO) to kill the invasion on the far left
- a routine kill in the bottom left corner
- missing the fact that I haven't completely nailed down the left-side invasion and allowing my opponent to slip away

Note that B205 was a mis-click, it was intended for B14 and my mouse slipped. Yet I think even if I had protected that group and ensured the kill I still would have needed some strong offensive play in the bottom right to take the victory.

I would be grateful for analysis of key mistakes in this game as well as some suggestions on what I should be studying at my current ability level.

Thank you for your time.

Posted: **Sat Feb 15, 2014 6:32 pm**

At this stage, by far the most important thing you can do for your strength is to play lots of games. Lose a bunch, and learn from them.

That said, here are some ideas for your game:

B13 - why not S18? If white takes S17, you can atari and capture.

B23 - I think you know from the result that this move was a mistake tactically, but I'd also point out that, strategically, there are still lots of important moves on the board. The black group from which you're extending is unsettled, and there are still huge open sections of the sides.

B41 - Too many cuts for you to play this move. You need to pick a side and save it, rather than leave both weak. One of the worst situations in go is when you have two weak groups near your opponent's strength.

B59 - This move connects a single stone. Compare this to the potential profit of playing on the left side. Remember, you should play urgent moves, then big moves, preferably threatening your opponent while you do.

B61 - This is a strange move. A kick at E17 might be nicer, as the stone at K17 denies your opponent a base.

B77 - Good! This move is big, and it uses your thickness. You might have been a little quick to abandon your four stones at the top, however. You got kind of lucky that your opponent let you get them out.

B117 to B123 - You're pushing from behind, here. While this didn't turn out too badly (your opponent's thickness isn't super useful in the direction it's facing), you should consider finding ways to get ahead.

B143 to B147 - If you aren't already, practice reading ladders. You're lucky your opponent missed the atari.

B155 - I like that you tenuki'd.

W160 - Ack, white beat you to the lower side! This move is awfully, high, though; you could still sneak under.

Posted: **Sat Feb 15, 2014 10:02 pm**

Hi Drew, as Tyvex said, direct experience is hugely beneficial to you right now, at your current stage.
Just play, play, and play.

Life In 19x19

24k vs 23k - fluctuating competence within a single match

24k vs 23k - fluctuating competence within a single match

Re: 24k vs 23k - fluctuating competence within a single matc