Chess Notation Converter
Working with different chess notation formats? This tool converts between Standard Algebraic Notation (SAN), Universal Chess Interface (UCI) format, PGN game records, and FEN position strings. Paste your input on the left and see the converted output on the right.
Professor Archer says: When I was learning chess, I encountered old books that used descriptive notation - "P-K4" instead of "e4". It was terribly confusing until I found a converter. Today, the main challenge is moving between SAN (what humans read) and UCI (what engines use). This tool handles all of it.
Features
- SAN to UCI conversion and vice versa
- PGN to FEN extraction (any move number)
- Descriptive notation to algebraic
- Batch conversion for multiple moves
- Copy output with one click
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between SAN and UCI notation?
SAN (Standard Algebraic Notation) is the human-readable format used in books and on screen: Nf3, Bxe5, O-O. UCI (Universal Chess Interface) notation is used by engines and specifies moves as from-to squares: g1f3, c1e5, e1g1. SAN is more compact and readable, while UCI is unambiguous and machine-friendly.
What is descriptive notation?
Descriptive notation was the standard English-language notation until the 1980s. Instead of using file letters and rank numbers, it names squares from each player perspective: P-K4 means "pawn to king 4" (equivalent to e4 for White or e5 for Black). Old chess books often use this format, making conversion tools valuable.