FIDE-certified coaching · Online & in Ratnagiri
Building smart thinkers and sharper minds through chess.
Structured, six-level coaching guided by FIDE certified trainers, for curious beginners and ambitious tournament players alike.
150+ students
1,250+ classes
9 countries
Why ChessDotes
A clear path from first move to tournament hall.
World-class instructors
Learn from FIDE endorsed trainers with years of experience in both playing and teaching chess.
Comprehensive syllabus
A structured, six-level curriculum that takes you from the fundamentals all the way to advanced play.
Personalised learning
Fundamentals are made clear at an early stage, so there is no unlearning later. Every student moves at their own pace.
Regular tournaments
Put your skills to the test in regular events organised exclusively for academy students.
The six-level path
Every piece has its level. Which one are you?
International Arbiter
since 2019
- 75+ FIDE-rated events officiated
- 100+ children trained
- 20+ students with a FIDE rating
Meet the founder
Vivek Sohani, International Arbiter & chess trainer
Vivek has officiated at the World Youth Chess Championship and the 44th FIDE Chess Olympiad, led India’s delegation at the Asian Youth Chess Championship 2021, and is an AICF-trained Chess in Schools coach.
That experience from both sides of the board shapes how every ChessDotes student learns: one concept at a time, on a strong foundation.
150+Students enrolled
1,250+Classes completed
9Countries we serve
3+ yrsAverage retention
India · USA · Australia · Singapore · Japan · Switzerland · Sri Lanka · England · UAE
What parents say
Trusted by families across the world.
★★★★★
My five year old son takes private chess classes from ChessDotes 64 Squares. The teaching style is unique and keeps the kid interested in learning the principles of the game. Coach introduces one concept at a time and ensures the foundation is built strong. I strongly recommend his classes.
Sandeep Dev MadinaSrithan's father · USA
1130 ? 1475
★★★★★
The regular feedback and game analysis has been Swaraj's stepping stone to being a better chess player. His rating has improved from 1130 to 1475, all thanks to ChessDotes and Vivek!
Poorva JoshiSwaraj's mother · USA
★★★★★
My two kids are learning chess from coach Vivek. It has been an excellent experience. They model the coaching to each student's pace. I recommend it for anyone who is looking to master chess.
Rishikesh DashputreFather of Akshara & Akshaj
From the blog
Ideas, lessons and chess news.
Zugzwang, opposition and more: 10 advanced chess terms explained
Zugzwang, opposition, zwischenzug, prophylaxis, outposts and passed pawns: 10 advanced chess terms explained simply, with diagrams and examples.
How to read and write chess notation (a beginner’s guide)
Learn algebraic chess notation: squares, piece letters, captures, checks, castling and promotion, plus how to fill a tournament scoresheet correctly.
Castling, en passant and promotion: the special moves explained
Castling, en passant and pawn promotion are the three special moves in chess. Here’s how each works, the exact rules, and the mistakes beginners make.
Ready to make your first move?
Tell us about the player, their age and experience, and we’ll suggest the right level, format and timing.