Solving a mate in 2 puzzle is the perfect exercise for sharpening your tactical eye. In each problem, the side to move plays a first move, often a sacrifice, then delivers checkmate on the next move whatever the opponent’s defence. Look first for checks, captures and threats, then check every possible reply before revealing the solution. Would you rather win a game in 2 moves right from the opening? That’s the “Fool’s mate”, a quick cousin of the Scholar’s mate. To master mating patterns, read our guide to checkmate, then move up a level with mate in 3.