gwnn wrote on 04/02/11 at 13:40:45:
-How fast do you play when you're firmly in your opening preparation? My coach used to tell me never to move faster than 15 seconds (except time trouble).
Good advise. I usually take a bit more, contemplating what kind of position I want to reach and making sure that I don't mix up move orders.
gwnn wrote on 04/02/11 at 13:40:45:
-Is it obvious to your opponent when you're out of your book or do you gradually start thinking more and more?
I don't know if it's obvious to my opponent. I very much like the Soviet idea of critical points. In every game there is at least one. Then I spend considerable time, because my choice will determine the way the rest of the game will go. The first critical point might be when I'm out of my book, but it might also be a bit later.
gwnn wrote on 04/02/11 at 13:40:45:
-Is it a good idea to try to mask this transition, e.g. by thinking forward in positions where you already know what you'll move?
Doesn't look like to me. The deeper you look the harder it becomes to visualize the position, the bigger the chance you'll make a mistake. If your move is obvious or if you're sure, just play it and thén begin thinking forward.
I like to keep things simple. The critical, difficult and important moves need most time.