In this episode, we’re joined by Aiden Rayner, a chess coach and visualization expert, from Australia. Aiden discusses the critical role of visualization in chess, explaining how most resources overlook direct training in this skill and why he decided to design targeted exercises to fill this gap. Aiden’s innovative approach, blending structured cognitive training with practical exercises, has helped players of all levels, even influencing grandmasters to incorporate his techniques.

We delve into the nuances of working memory and its limitations in chess, shedding light on how cognitive bottlenecks lead to blunders. He offers actionable advice on creating personalized checklists and forming habits that interrupt automatic, often flawed, intuitive responses during games. The discussion also explores how visualization doesn’t have to mean visualizing in the literal sense, emphasizing that players should lean into how their brain naturally processes chess information—be it through verbal narratives, spatial awareness, or other personal methods.

The conversation takes a deeper dive into training methodologies, focusing on isolating and intensifying specific skills to enhance overall performance. Aiden shares practical exercises, including a blindfold chess drill designed to stretch cognitive capacity, and discusses the importance of prioritizing key patterns for improvement.

The synergy between cognitive science and chess improvement is highlighted throughout the episode, providing listeners with a treasure trove of insights and tools to elevate their game, whether they’re beginners or seasoned players.

00:00 Who Is Aiden Rayner?
07:11 Visualization Training/Chess Improvement
10:58 Conceptualization/Visualization
12:18 Aphantasia
20:53 Working Memory
24:03 Freezing/Forgetting/Freewheeling
29:10 Intuition
33:24 Ghost Pieces
37:38 Building Habits
41:24 How to Best Learn Chess Patterns and Chunks
49:05 Checklists
53:08 Who is Your Daddy and What Does He Do?
1:02:26 First and Second-Order Effects
1:09:12 Ideal Training Intensity
1:20:33 Blindfold Exercise