Online Chess Etiquette
How to be a good sport in the digital chess world.
Published 2026-02-01 | Last verified 2026-02-12
Professor Archer says: The screen between you and your opponent does not change the fact that there is a real person on the other side. Treat them with the same respect you would offer across a physical board. Online anonymity is not a license for poor behavior.
The Basics of Online Sportsmanship
Online chess etiquette mirrors over-the-board etiquette in spirit but has its own specific customs. A simple "gl" (good luck) at the start and "gg" (good game) at the end go a long way toward creating a positive experience.
Do not send angry messages after a loss. Do not accuse your opponent of cheating without evidence. And do not stall a lost position by letting your clock run out instead of resigning - this wastes your opponent's time and is considered poor sportsmanship.
Do's and Don'ts
- Do: Play your games to completion - If you start a game, finish it. Abandoning games - closing the browser or app when losing - is rude and wastes your opponent's time. If you need to leave, resign properly.
- Do: Be gracious in chat - If the platform has a chat feature, keep messages positive. Congratulate good moves, say "good game" at the end, and never insult your opponent.
- Don't: Stall in lost positions - Letting your clock run down in a completely lost position is the online equivalent of throwing pieces off the board. Resign when the game is clearly over.
- Don't: Use external assistance - Never use a chess engine, open a book, or consult another player during a rated game. This is cheating, and platforms have sophisticated detection systems. The consequences include permanent bans.
Handling Tilt and Frustration
Online chess makes it easy to play game after game after game, especially when you are losing. This cycle of frustration and revenge-playing is called "tilt," and it is the fastest way to destroy your rating and your enjoyment.
Set a personal rule: after two consecutive losses, take a break. Walk away from the screen for at least ten minutes. This simple discipline prevents tilt from spiraling and protects both your rating and your mental health.
Remember that your online rating is not your identity. A bad session does not erase your knowledge or ability. Step away, reset, and come back when you are calm and focused.
Online Etiquette FAQ
Should I report suspected cheaters?
Yes. If you genuinely believe an opponent is using a chess engine, report them through the platform's reporting system. Let the platform investigate - do not accuse them in chat, as you might be wrong.
Is it okay to use a takebacks request?
In casual games, requesting a takeback for an obvious mouse slip is acceptable. In rated games, it depends on the platform and the situation. Do not abuse the feature or expect your opponent to grant takebacks.
Professor Archer says: The best online chess communities are built by players who model good behavior. Be the kind of opponent you would want to play against. Offer a "good game" after every match, win or lose.
Quick Quiz
What should you do after losing two consecutive online games?
- Play another game immediately to win your points back - Playing while frustrated (on tilt) usually leads to more losses and a worse mood. Breaking the cycle is essential.
- Take a break of at least ten minutes (Correct) - Correct. Stepping away after consecutive losses prevents tilt, protects your rating, and lets you return with a clear head.
- Send an angry message to your opponent - Angry messages are always inappropriate. Your opponent played within the rules and deserves respect.
- Switch to a faster time control - Faster time controls often increase frustration because there is less time to think. Slowing down or taking a break is the better approach.