Ready to checkmate, but unsure where to start? Setting up a chessboard correctly is the *first* step to victory! It's surprisingly simple, but crucial for fair play.
**The Basics:**
* **The Board:** The most important rule: a white square *must* be in the bottom right corner for each player. Remember, 'white on right!'
* **The Pawns:** These brave foot soldiers line up across the second rank (the row closest to you).
* **The Rooks:** These sturdy towers stand guard in the corners.
* **The Knights:** Next to the rooks, the knights are ready to jump into action.
* **The Bishops:** Flanking the knights, the bishops prepare to control the diagonals.
* **The Queen:** The queen always occupies the square that matches her color. White queen on the white square, black queen on the black square.
* **The King:** The king takes the last remaining spot. He's precious, protect him!
That's it! With your pieces properly positioned, you're ready to begin your chess adventure. Now go forth and conquer!
