It seems like there are a lot of players on lichess who play consistently for years but stay within 100-200 rating points of where they started. I am wondering, what is the best way to improve your chess? I know blitz and bullet by themselves do not really help, and I think classical games where you can think and learn will help more, but is there a better way?
Chess masters, any advice?
Some people play for fun only. If you want to improve there are many ways, solve puzzles, read books, analyze and talk with stronger players, ask them questions about your games and positions etc.
How long does it take to get to 2000+ from my level? I know chess is not something for the impatient, but not sure how long.
The best way to improve is to thoroughly analyse your lost games and learn from your mistakes in such a way that you do not make the same mistake again.
Some progress like 100/year is feasible.
#3
I guess if you look at my profile as an example it seems to show 300-400 point increase over a few months, but it all depends on how many puzzles you solve, how may games you analyze, how many books you read and videos you watch, how much time you spend studying, what your current knowledge is, what talent and age you are etc. These massive surges in rating in under a year are apparently common among the crazies who solve thousands of puzzles over and over and over (aka 7 circles aka woodpecker method)