Print this card and carry it to every tournament. Follow the same routine every break, regardless of whether you won or lost the previous game.

Your Between-Rounds Routine

Do these in order. Every round. Every tournament.

Step 1 — Take Care of Your Body

• Use the restroom
• Drink water (at least a few sips — more if you feel thirsty)
• Have a small snack if there is time (something light — not a full meal)
• Move around briefly — a short walk helps reset concentration

Step 2 — Reset Your Mind

• Leave the last game behind. You cannot change the result.
• If you won: do not get overconfident. The next opponent does not care.
• If you lost: do not replay the losing moves in your head repeatedly. Brief review is fine — emotional replay is not.
• Take three slow breaths if you feel tense.

Step 3 — Check Your Pairings

• Find the pairings board (usually posted 10–15 minutes before the next round)
• Locate your name — note your board number and your color (White or Black)
• Note the time the next round starts

Step 4 — Prepare for the Next Game

• Go to your board a few minutes early
• Set up the pieces if needed
• Confirm the clock is set to the correct time control
• Sit quietly and focus before the game begins

The One Rule for Between Rounds

Do not spend your break analyzing what went wrong.

A brief note to yourself is fine. Replaying the game move by move with a parent, coach, or friend for 20 minutes is not. It leaves you emotionally drained for the next game.

How Long Do You Have?

Breaks between rounds vary by tournament. Common patterns:

If you are unsure, ask the tournament director when the next round begins.

Carry This Reminder

Between-Rounds Checklist
✓ Restroom
✓ Water
✓ Light snack
✓ Short walk
✓ Check pairings
✓ Breathe — reset
✓ Sit down early

Cut out and carry in your chess bag.

From Chess Tournament Guide — ChessTournamentGuide.com