Prophylaxis

The idea

Prophylaxis is not passive. It is active respect for the opponent resources. You improve your position while making their best idea harder to execute.

Why it matters

Prophylaxis helps you win good positions without giving the opponent free chances.

Recognize it

• The opponent has one obvious freeing move.
• Your attack fails if they trade a key defender.
• A quiet move removes counterplay.

Common mistakes

• Playing prevention with no threat attached.
• Seeing only your own plan.
• Stopping the wrong idea.