Playing chess at chess.com?

Question

I have been playing chess at chess.com. When I click on the "settings" button a small box appears and in it I can choose between "fixed time" in seconds, or "fixed depth" in Ply.

I especeally would like to know what the "fixed depth" in Ply is about. Also, when I have it on fixed time, it seems I am able to take all the time I want. Is the fixed time just for the computer?

How do I make the program eaiser for me to play, without losing every game?

Thanks for any information.

Answer 1

Essentially it is limiting the thinking depth of the chess computer.  Read this:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ply_(chess)

So, if you are limiting the ply level, you are limiting how many moves ahead the computer can "see."  The lower the ply the less strength the chess computer engine will display.

If you fix time you are only limiting how long the computer can "think."  The faster the computer the less this is limiting.  Limiting the ply level means that no matter how fast the computer is it will stop at a given ply (move ahead.)

I believe you have answered your own question on the rest.

Lessening the ply will possibly allow you a better chance, but if it gets the right move in one or two plies, and you consisently make wrong moves you may lose anyway.  Don't take it personal.  It's just a way to help you.

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