Development
Development brings pieces from their starting squares to positions where they can take part in the game.
Opening development usually improves minor pieces, contests the center, and prepares king safety. Moving the same piece repeatedly can leave the rest of the army behind.
Develop a piece from the position
After 1.e4 e5, White can develop either the g1-knight or f1-bishop toward the center. A useful developing move gives the piece work to do and helps the rest of the position progress.
Play Nf3 or Bc4 and see what the developed piece does.
Play Nf3 or Bc4 and see what the developed piece does.
One move can develop and create a threat
A move such as Nf3 can develop a knight, attack e5, support d4, and prepare castling. A developing move that forces a reply may also gain a tempo.
Starting position · Position 0/6
A lead in development is temporary
Being ahead in development matters when the active pieces can act before the opponent catches up. If no threat or opening of the position follows, the opponent may finish development and erase the advantage.