This book on strategy is one of the best and clearest texts ever written. Lasker claims that by following a few principles of strategy which he gives one can play chess very well. A large part of the book is devoted to illustrative games to show how these strategic principles have been applied by masters. These games show that by learning how to clear files, concentrating forces in the center of the board, and keeping pawn movement down to only the most needed ones, you can become a master. I improved by playing greatly by playing three of the illustrative games in back of the book, and learning everything I could from these three games. The book should be read and reread and the illustrative games played over and over again. You will learn something each time. With enough work and rereading and application of the principles in this book, one can become a strategic master. In this book the author uses a clear and conversational style to clarify problems that may seem difficult or confusing for the beginner or casual player. Even if you dont know the first thing about chess, this book can help you learn the fundamentals behind chess strategy and become a good player within a short period of time. The book is profusely illustrated with hundreds of diagrams and annotated games.