A useful blunder check asks what changed with the opponent’s last move and what your proposed move leaves behind.
What to do
Look for checks, captures and direct threats in the current position. After imagining your move, repeat that scan for the opponent. Include loose pieces and king exposure.
A mistake to avoid
A memorized checklist should not become a rushed ritual. Name the actual threat or explain why a tempting capture does not work.
A detail worth checking
Check newly opened lines after every exchange. The opponent’s last move can alter a bishop, rook or queen attack far from the moved piece, so threat detection should include the changed board geometry.
Try this practical check
Take one lost game and stop before each major mistake. Write the opponent’s next forcing possibility and whether your planned move addressed it.
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