Lesson · phase 2
Checkmate with Two Rooks
The ladder mate. Two rooks alternating ranks to push the king down the board.
Checkmate with Two Rooks
Ra3+!
Two rooks can execute the staircase mate, but rooks cannot protect each other diagonally. When the enemy king attacks a rook, you must reposition it far away before continuing. Controlling two consecutive ranks forces the king upward.
Ke2!
Your king is blocking the rooks. Step aside first so they can begin the staircase.
The rooks are ready to staircase. What is blocking them?
Practice time! Use the staircase technique to deliver checkmate. Alternate your rooks on adjacent ranks to push the king to the edge.
What is the staircase technique?
Drill these positions in spaced repetition
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