CARTE: Becoming an IM, by Cyrus Lakdawala

Many decently strong players aspire to become an international master. They see very clearly that the grandmaster title is most likely beyond them but the IM title is one they feel they could achieve, if only... It's this "if only" bit that gets in the way. If only... what? Do they need to study the openings more? Should they focus on improving tactical skill? Do they need to study the classics? Should they concentrate on endgames? Would it help to play blindfold? There are innumerable books on the openings, a decent number on strategy and plenty on the endgame. However, if you want a book that explains at length the steps needed to improve your skills from those of a very good player to one of IM strength, you will look long and hard and probably in vain. Until now. In this book, highly prolific author Cyrus Lakdawala maps out a route to take you along this journey. He is well qualified to do so as this is a journey he made himself (he did not shine as a junior) and so knows exactly what to do. He is brutally honest about his failures along the way and this will help readers to avoid natural pitfalls. Lakdawala identifies the key mental, physical and psychological processes that need to be mastered to achieve IM standard making this book the ultimate chess self-improvement tool. Cyrus Lakdawala is an International Master, a former National Open and American Open Champion, and six-time State Champion. He has been teaching chess for over 40 years, and coaches top US juniors.