How to get better at this game, engine shows I’m nearly always down 2-3 points after some moves

Don't be afraid to play rated.

1. You get a realistic assessment of your skill, so you can pick the right learning resources.
2. While playing with stronger players once in a while might be beneficial, pairings within your rating range are simply more fun.

It's just a board game. Unless you're a pro, there is no credit for playing well and no shame in playing like a moron. Look for opponents close to your own strength and enjoy the game.

@Chesserroo2 said in #8:

If you make it to the endgame against Stockfish full strength, that is impressive. I get mated in the opening every time. Most GMs are crushed soon too.

I don’t think GMs get “mated” by stockfish too soon or without reaching end games in the vast majority of cases. I think middle game chess at that level is basically nearly solved and there’s little room for mates, unless they’re playing blitz or fast rapid.

@Cataroid said in #12:

I don’t think GMs get “mated” by stockfish too soon or without reaching end games. I think middle game chess at that level is basically nearly solved and there’s little room for mates, unless they’re playing blitz or fast rapid.

I've seen LeelaChessZero and 3000 rated engines get mated by Stockfish in the early middle game.

When Stockfish loses to LCO, it is a drawn out endgame fight. When LCO loses to Stockfish, it is sometimes a quick mate.

The middle game is not solved. Grandmasters don't know how to play the sharp variations engines play. I don't doubt they sometimes make it to an endgame, depending on the opening and how much they trade. But GMs do get crushed in the middlegame too.

"This account is closed."

Another one bites the dust...

I cant help you, cause your account is closed, maybe chess.com could help?

@Chesserroo2 said in #13:

I've seen LeelaChessZero and 3000 rated engines get mated by Stockfish in the early middle game.

When Stockfish loses to LCO, it is a drawn out endgame fight. When LCO loses to Stockfish, it is sometimes a quick mate.

The middle game is not solved. Grandmasters don't know how to play the sharp variations engines play. I don't doubt they sometimes make it to an endgame, depending on the opening and how much they trade. But GMs do get crushed in the middlegame too.

Tried against lvl 8 w/o putting too much effort in, just trying to hold on and trade and not lose.
Obviously it's not playing its super computer self but surviving seems manageable. It has itself at 6 ACPL in analysis.

I can't give advice to a closed account, but I'll do my best.

Get a solid and simple opening repertoire, and check for blunders on every move you make. I you have to think 2 mins per move, then think for 2 minutes per move.