Plain-English Definition
Key squares matter because pieces need landing places. Control can be more important than occupying the square immediately.
Why It Matters
It gives positional play a visible target.
Common Signs in Games
- A square cannot be attacked by pawns.
- Occupying it improves multiple pieces.
- The square is near the king or a pawn weakness.
Common Mistakes
- Occupying a square with no purpose.
- Trading the piece that controls the key square.
- Creating weak squares around your own king.