Descriptive vs Algebraic Notation
The old and the new - understanding both systems for reading classic chess literature.
Published 2026-02-01 | Last verified 2026-02-12
Professor Archer says: I grew up reading books in descriptive notation. When the chess world switched to algebraic, it felt strange at first - like suddenly everyone was driving on the other side of the road. But algebraic is objectively clearer, and I am glad the switch happened.
What Is Descriptive Notation?
Descriptive notation was the standard in English-speaking countries until the 1980s. It names squares based on the piece that starts on that file. For example, the e-file is the "King's file" and the d-file is the "Queen's file."
A move is written from each player's perspective: 1. P-K4 P-K4 means both players push their king's pawn two squares. The same square has different names depending on who is moving - what is K4 for White is K5 for Black.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Descriptive | Algebraic |
|---|---|---|
| Square naming | Based on piece file and player perspective | Fixed coordinates (a-h, 1-8) |
| Example opening | 1. P-K4 P-K4 | 1. e4 e5 |
| Captures | PxP or NxB | exd5 or Nxf6 |
| Ambiguity | Common - same square has two names | Rare - each square has one name |
| Modern usage | Obsolete except in classic books | Universal standard |
Why Algebraic Won
Algebraic notation won because it is simpler and less ambiguous. Every square has exactly one name regardless of who is moving. This makes it easier to learn, faster to write, and clearer to read.
Descriptive notation requires knowing which side is moving to interpret the square names, which creates confusion when analyzing variations. Algebraic eliminates this ambiguity entirely.
The international chess community adopted algebraic notation as the standard, and FIDE requires it for all official publications. However, many classic English-language chess books from before the 1980s use descriptive notation.
Notation Systems FAQ
Do I need to learn descriptive notation?
Not for playing or studying modern material. But if you want to read classic chess books from the mid-20th century, a basic understanding of descriptive notation is helpful. Many of these books have been reprinted in algebraic, however.
Are there other notation systems?
Yes. Figurine algebraic notation uses piece symbols instead of letters (a small knight icon instead of N). There are also coordinate notation systems used by computers. But for human use, standard algebraic is all you need.
Professor Archer says: If you encounter a classic chess book in descriptive notation, do not be intimidated. The system is logical once you understand its structure. Some of the greatest chess writing was published in descriptive notation, and it would be a shame to miss it.
Quick Quiz
What is the main advantage of algebraic notation over descriptive notation?
- It uses fewer symbols - Both systems use a similar number of symbols. The advantage is not about symbol count.
- Each square has one fixed name regardless of which side is moving (Correct) - Correct. Algebraic notation assigns a single, unambiguous name to each square, making it easier to read and less error-prone than descriptive notation.
- It was invented more recently - Being newer does not automatically make it better. The advantage is the reduced ambiguity in square naming.
- It looks more professional - Appearance is not the primary advantage. Clarity and lack of ambiguity are what make algebraic superior.