Chess coaches recommend that players analyze some of their own games, so they can see what their strengths and weaknesses are, and learn what they can rely on and improve on. The following method may help you get started:
Right after you play, write down what you were thinking during the game. Make note of your:
Plans
Reactions
Quick and slow moves
Later, find critical moves, then describe their effects and alternatives. Focus on:
The phase changes, from opening to middlegame and middlegame to endgame
Initiative changes
Mistakes and blunders, especially missed opportunities and threats
Excellent and only-good moves
Finally, run the game through an engine to verify and refine your analysis. But, remember:
