Absolute Pin: This occurs when a piece is pinned to the king. The pinned piece cannot legally move because doing so would place the king in check. For example, a bishop pinning a knight to the opponent’s king.
Relative Pin: This occurs when a piece is pinned to a more valuable piece other than the king. The pinned piece can move, but doing so would likely result in the loss of the more valuable piece behind it. For example, a bishop pinning a knight to a queen.
Effective Use of Pins:
Put Pressure on the Pinned Piece: Apply pressure by attacking the pinned piece multiple times, forcing your opponent to defend it. This can lead to capturing the pinned piece or weakening their position.
Develop Pieces with Tempo: Use pins to develop your pieces with tempo, meaning you develop while creating threats. This can accelerate your development and gain a lead in initiative.
Combining Pins with Other Tactics: Pins can be combined with other tactical motifs like forks, skewers, and discovered attacks to create more complex and effective combinations.
Defending Against Pins:
Breaking the Pin: Move the pinned piece or another piece to block or exchange the pinning piece. For example, moving a pawn to block a bishop pin or exchanging the pinning bishop with your knight.
Counterattacking: Create threats of your own to distract your opponent and force them to respond, potentially breaking the pin in the process.
King Safety: Ensure your king is safely positioned to minimize the chances of being subjected to an absolute pin. This often involves castling early and positioning pawns and pieces to protect the king.