It's definitely the "back to school" season. And although school has already started here in Hawai`i--- public school reconvened at the early date of August 5--- the back to school rush is in progress or soon forthcoming at many locations around America.

To celebrate back to school (yes, some people do actually celebrate it) we present a small "scholarly" problem. It's simpler in appearance than those in our Checker School series, but it's definitely in the "need to know" category for all cross-board players. You'll probably recognize it, but can you solve it from the diagram?

BLACK

WHITE
White to Play and Draw

W:W15,30:B22,K31.

Give this "the old school try," and then click on Read More to see the solution.

Solution

Numerous variations are possible; use your computer to explore further.

30-26 22-25 26-22 31-26 22-17 26-22 17-13 22-18 15-10 18-14 10-6 14-9 6-1 9-5 1-6---A 25-30 6-10 30-26 10-15 26-31---B 15-18 31-27 18-14 27-23 13-9---C 5-1 9-5 Drawn.

A---A draw is now assured. White has avoided First Position.

B---If Black tries 26-23 White has this clever draw: 26-23 13-9! 5-14 15-18. Drawn.

C---The single man finally advances.