The teaching of chess tactics and combinations is generally unsystematic. Generations of chess players have learned their tactical knowledge simply by studying countless example positions. While we have long been aware of various recurring tactical motifs, such as double threats, pins, weak points, sacrifices, checkmating attacks, and more, there is still no comprehensive presentation or even a clean classification of tactical elements in chess literature. Most publications in this area forgo completeness and instead focus on providing an entertaining form of instruction.

Volkhard Igney deliberately chooses a different approach with his current work. He methodically examines which elements are common to all combinations: What conditions must be present in a position to make a tactical strike or combination possible? What tactical motifs—referred to here as tactical methods—exist? What goals are achieved? This represents the first attempt to formulate a comprehensive theory of chess tactics.

In the second part of the book, the theory is supplemented by practice exercises, which are presented in a systematic order. This work should be of great benefit to every learning chess player, and especially to all chess teachers and trainers.