Chess - Foundation for Mathematics: In What Ways Can Chess Improve a Child’s Mathematical Skills?

This paper aims to find and explore the positive correlation between chess and mathematics. It further discusses how the skills required for chess are also of great importance in mathematics. Moreover, chess problems that need to be solved using mathematical concepts are added to persuade children to try and come up with their own problems and solutions. Creative and critical thinking are two other important skills supported by chess. Through examples, the paper demonstrates how these skills correlate with chess. Towards the end, the paper advocates for the introduction of chess in schools, backed up by previous efforts to promote chess in schools. Chess is a game that requires the use of one's mental aptitude as well as strategic thinking skills. It was found that these abilities are useful in various areas of life, notably mathematics. It aids in the development of various skills: it strengthens basic calculations, improves memorization ability, enhances concentration power, develops foresight, and instills time management.