Available via New In Chess or through Chessable, which allows for interactive drilling of the puzzles.
Since the original Woodpecker Method dropped in 2018, it has become a staple for players looking to sharpen their tactical vision through grueling, high-volume repetition. Now, Swedish Grandmaster returns with the highly anticipated sequel, The Woodpecker Method 2: Positional Play , published by Quality Chess.
Automatic spaced-repetition tracking. The software tracks your time, hides the answers, and instantly flags incorrect moves. You can also toggle an engine (like Stockfish) to analyze variations not covered in the book's text. The Woodpecker Method 2 Axel Smith -PDF PGN...
Do not try to do all puzzles at once. Select a block of 200 to 400 puzzles appropriate for your strength.
If you hang around chess improvement circles long enough, you’ll inevitably hear the term "The Woodpecker Method." It’s the gold standard for pattern recognition, popularized by Grandmaster Hans Tikka and refined into a global phenomenon by Axel Smith. Available via New In Chess or through Chessable,
Which (ChessBase, Lichess, etc.) do you prefer to use?
To build subconscious pattern recognition so that moves that require deep calculation for a beginner become intuitive for an expert. Automatic spaced-repetition tracking
The exercises are meticulously checked with modern engines, but also tested for human feasibility. Notably, GM Nodirbek Abdusattorov used this book in his rise to the world's elite [New In Chess].
Ben Johnson of the Perpetual Chess Podcast adds: "The book is brilliantly done, and IMO might be a better fit with spaced repetition than the tactics in the original."