Tsume-Go Strategy 2

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2
© Copyright 2016 by Thomas Redecker
3
TSUME-GO STRATEGY 2
Learn to Recognize Vital Points in Go Problems
Thomas Redecker
Have you ever complained about Go problems that are much too difficult
for you to solve? And then lost courage?
Inoue Dōsetsu Inseki’s advice — written down over 300 years ago — is to
study shape. This book helps you do that and overcome your current
weakness in the beautiful field of tsume-go.
Study over 400 problems – based on 44 side patterns – that are analysed in
great details. Absorb numerous hints that direct your gaze to previously
unrecognized vital shape points.
This book tries a novel approach in offering an important intermediate step

between the main problem diagrams and the respective solutions.
Alternative approaches as well as failures are presented as separate
problems to be solved individually.
This volume is a successor of “Tsume-Go Strategy” (Volume 1), but it can

be studied independently.
4
Copyright Page
First edition.
© 2016, Thomas Redecker, Berlin. All rights reserved.
This book or any portion thereof may not be reproduced or used in any
manner whatsoever without the express written permission of the publisher
except for the use of brief quotations in a book review or scholarly journal.
Email: igohatsuyoron120@gmail.com
5
Introduction
“The problems are too difficult!”
… reads a typical complaint which occasionally accompanied the solution

attempts of the participants in the problem corner of the bimonthly
German Go-Journal.
For most of the problems in question these comments were quite

astonishing for me. This was true especially for problems in which it
seemed to me that the correct sequence of moves was clearly guided by
“typical” elements of the problem’s structure, and shape.
Over a long period of time I thought about a suitable kind of presentation

that might help some problem solver to sharpen their view for these typical
shape elements. Lately, I was heavily motivated by what Inoue Dōsetsu
Inseki (who published the most difficult problem ever created – Igo
Hatsuyōron #120) wrote in his afterword to the original edition of his
classic book. He explicitly stressed the importance of studying “shape”,
and also mentioned that this study would become the more important the
stronger you are.
In this book, you will find a very detailed in-depth analysis of 44 (easier)
side patterns from another classic problem selection, the Gengen Gokyō,
resulting in over 400 individual problems. An evaluation of the difficulty
of Gengen Gokyō’s problems is not easy; you will find quite different
estimates in the literature. It is often said that these problems might be
suitable for players who are at least in the upper single-digit Kyū range.
However, I am firmly convinced that even double-digit Kyū players will

gain a lot for their games by studying these problems from Gengen Gokyō,
especially the easier ones. A large number of the side patterns that are
given in this book can also be found in any standard dictionary of “Life &
Death”, so these must be very important for weaker players too.
6
“Do not look at the solution!”
… regularly reads the most important advice given to those who want to
solve Go problems. In real games you are on your own as a Go player and
there is no one standing beside you to help with words and deeds.
If you have not found the solution within a reasonable period of time, let’s
say about three to five minutes, it is best to switch over to the next
problem. Perhaps you do not try so fiercely with the second or third
attempt and the correct sequence suddenly falls like scales from your eyes.
Then you can enjoy the fantastic feeling to have found the solution on your
own.
In Western countries you will not find any problem book without
solutions. As a rule there is no teacher available who could answer the
pupil’s question “Correct or not correct?” However, it needs a great
amount of self-control not to turn over to the page with the solution
diagrams too early.
Usually a very important condition is kept back in the advice given in the
headline. This additional part of the advice reads “… before you are very
sure that you have totally solved it.” This implies that only getting the first
move of the solution right, or the main path of the solution sequence, is by
far not enough. In your own games – did you ever experience that your
opponent did not answer your moves as “demanded” by the books, and
caught you by surprise?
Therefore this book tries to follow a middle course. Every problem points
to solution hints and not directly to the solution. These hints specify
crucial points and try to explain important structures, and shape points, of
the problem. If you tried to solve the problem beforehand, and still are not
completely sure about your own solution, in most cases you should be able
to realize whether your solution is likely to be correct or not by reading the
hints carefully.
Subsequently, you will not so often need the solution pages but only in a
7
few remaining cases, perhaps especially with difficult problems. You will
also find the view of your opponent or sequences which do not work
successfully. Most of these sub-variations are presented as separate
problems to make you find their refutations on your own.
And be seriously warned: There is nothing available like an “easy-to-

follow cooking recipe” that tells you to do this first, and to do that second.
This book can do nothing more than give you numerous hints; it is you
alone who will have to find your own individual path for solving Go
problems successfully.
The more difficult a problem is the more the solution is kept hidden below
the surface. This made the composition of clues for the problems in this
book (especially for the later ones) a little bit time consuming. Please take
into account that I am a strong Kyū player only when judging the accuracy
of the presentation. Several sub-variations cannot be found in other books,
and have been developed on my own. Therefore, if you find anything
better, or have a question, or a suggestion, please do not hesitate to report
via the following email address:
igohatsuyoron120@gmail.com
This book contains more than 6,000 diagrams, so please be forgiving if
you find a fault in one of them.
It is my hope that reading this book first of all is fun, and that it also helps
to eliminate some of the blind spots which have blocked your way to
solving Go problems so far.
Berlin, August 2016

Thomas Redecker
8
Contents
Problem 001 Problem 002 Problem 003
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
Problem 043 Problem 044
23
Excursus
This collection of “Excursus” gives more detailed explanations on several
shape issues.
You might find these additional texts useful, but their study is not
mandatory for understanding the hints, or the course of the solutions.
Therefore, if the topics covered are well known to you, you might skip
these further explanations.
All the “Excursus” are collected at the end of the book, so it will be
possible to read these on their own.
24
Table of contents
Excursus – Real eyes vs. false eyes
Excursus – Cutting points reduce your options for connecting out
Excursus – All stones are shown that might affect the solution
Excursus – Ko fights (I)
Excursus – Capturing a four-stone pyramid shape on the edge
Excursus – Capturing two stones on the edge
Excursus – Capturing three stones on the edge
Excursus – Dead eye shapes
Excursus – Adding a second stone for sacrifice
Excursus – Excursus – “Snakes”
Excursus – Linear shapes vs. bulky shapes
Excursus – The centre of three stones
Excursus – Troubles with descending towards the edge
Excursus – Cutting a keima (knight’s move)
Excursus – Strike at the waist of a keima
Excursus – Under the stones
Excursus – Eight live, six die
Excursus – Excursus – Six live, four die
Excursus – Capturing five stones in a pyramid shape on the edge
Excursus – The 1–2–3 principle
Excursus – Mannen ko (ten thousand year ko)
25
Excursus – Ko fights (II)
26
Lessons learned
The conclusion of the book provides a collection of core messages
extracted from all the “Lessons learned” that can be found in this book.
Please be well aware that these hints are taken only from failure
variations. So it is still your task to find your own way of identifying the
correct lines of tsume-go problems.
27
Table of contents
1–2–3 principle
Atari
Attack
Capture
Connecting
Cutting points
Dead eye shape
Defence
Eye space
False eyes
Holes
Inside
Knight’s move
Ko
Liberties
Moves
Outside
Sacrifice
Semeai
Snakes
Two areas
28
Zigzag line
29
Legend: Important shape points and further points of
interest
This section introduces the symbols, and labels that are used in this book
to highlight various important shape points.
"●"
30
circle
The potential eye space of a group (here a white one) is marked with "●".
Usually, this space is understood as the maximum that could be achieved
(playing own moves for its fortification only).
“e”
31
e e
eyepoint
Sure eye points are marked with “e”.
“△” / “ ” / “ ”
32
deadeyeshape
Dead eye shapes are marked with “△”. These might be partially occupied
(“ ” / “ ”).
33
outsidestrong
Strong positions on the outside (preventing any escape), are marked with “
” / “ ”.
34
outsidedescent
Important descents that have been played on the outside, and which look
deep into the opponent’s position, are marked with “ ” / “ ”.
“□”
35
centralpoint_deadeyeshape
The central point of a dead eye shape is marked with “□”.
“●”
36
blackliberties
Liberties of black groups are marked with a black dot (●).
“○”
37
whiteliberties
Liberties of white groups are marked with a white dot (○).
“1” / “2” / “3” / “4” / “5”
38
4 5
2 3 5
libertycount
The liberty count of single stones, and entire groups of stones, is displayed
by using the respective number on all involved stones.
Please be aware that – solely in the “Hints” – we use “1” for marking a
single stone that has only one liberty left. Do not mismatch these stones
with “moves”.
“✕” / “ ” / “ ”
39
falseeye
False eyes are marked with “✕”, the respective opponent stones engaged
are marked with “ ” / “ ”.
40
falseeyeline
Lines of potential false eyes are marked with “✕” / “ ” / “ ”.
41
diagonalconnection
Stones, and groups (at their ends) that are not yet securely connected are
marked with “ ” / “ ”.
These stones / groups may be diagonally adjacent to each other, or have a
hole in-between.
42
zigzagline
A potential zigzag line of stones that should be connected out is marked
with “✕” / “ ” / “ ”.
43
zigzaglinear
Please note that we also use this term “zigzag line” if the line of stones that
should be connected out ( , ✕) is positioned only on the first line.
To be honest, we simply did not find a better one.
44
stonecapture
Stones that cannot escape capture, or stones that could become captured
easily, are marked with “ ” / “ ”.
“!!”
45
!! !!
!!
hole
The empty space (= hole) between a group, and the edge of the board, is
marked with “!!”.
Gaps in the middle of an encirclement are also marked with “!!”.
“◇”
46
jump
Points on the edge of the board that will serve as potential candidates for a
jump from a friendly position ( here), are marked with “◇”.
“ko”
47
1 ko
kocapture
The empty point that is left after capturing a single opponent stone in a ko
shape (with Black 1 here), is marked with “ko”.
“n”
48
n n
neutralpoint
Neutral points in a seki are marked with “n”.
“?”
49
? ? ?
? ? ?
uncertainarea
An area where it might be uncertain whether an eye can be developed
there is marked with “?”.
50
Variation trees
Some readers of the first volume reported that they felt a bit lost in the
complexity of some problems with many variations, not really knowing
where they were in the context of the entire problem.
For this reason, I decided to add variation trees besides the problems that
are reduced to the most necessary information. The presentation style
chosen (due to some restrictions of the SmartGo Books format) may be
perceived as not ideal, but I am sure that these additional compilations are
better than nothing.
Please feel free to utilise these compilations as an aid for your navigation
through a dark, deep and twisty forest of leaves.
51
We use a very “condensed” version of the variation tree, showing its
branching points only. The following example shows the variation tree of
problem 001, including additional explanations of the variation levels.
1 start main line

`-> 1 var. for Black 1 (I)
: `-> 3 sub-var. for Black 3
`-> 1 var. for Black 1 (II)
: : `-> 4 sub-sub-var for White 4
`-> 1 var. for Black 1 (III)
: `-> 2 sub-var. for White 2
: : `-> 3 sub-sub-var. for Black 3
2 continuation main line
`-> 2 var. for White 2
`-> 4 var. for White 4
`-> 5 var. for Black 5
Please note that we display “branching moves” of a superordinate level

only for the main line.
52
In the book, there will be no explanations of the variation levels.
1
> 1
> 3
> 1
3>
> 4
○●○●○●○●○
> 1
●○●○●○●○●
> 2
> 3
> 3
2
> 2
4
> 4
5
> 5
Legend:
Text in bold font refers to a problem (mainly failure diagrams).
Text in normal font refers to a variation.
○●○●○●○●○
Text in black font between the two lines of small “stones” (here: the third
sub-variation for Black 1) refers to the current problem.
●○●○●○●○●
All other lines can be tapped for direct access to the respective problem /
variation.
53
Glossary
Atari
atari
The state of a stone or a group ( ) which has only one liberty (○; and
could be captured by the next move). Very often used for the move itself
(here: Black 1) which takes the penultimate liberty.
54
Bamboo joint
bamboo joint
The shape of the four black stones after Black played 1. It is normally
impossible to cut through this strong connection.
55
Descent
descent
A move like Black 1, which descends towards the edge of the board.
56
Double-ko
6
5 4 A 2 1 C 3
doubleko
Two ko, happening simultaneously in the same fight, and serving the same
purpose. If one player captures the first ko (here with Black A / Black 1),
the other player captures the second ko (with White C / White 4). Can
become a large supply of ko threats (here for Black) if there is another ko
on the board.
57
Gote
Losing the initiative. A move which need not be answered.
58
Guzumi
4
5 3
2 1
guzumi
Good bad shape. A shape (usually an empty triangle), which looks bad, but
is good, and effective, in the local context.
59
Hane
hane
A diagonal move played from one’s own stone, in contact with and around
an opponent stone. Often facing the edge of the board.
60
Keima (Knight’s move)
keima
A relationship of two stones that is similar to the movement of a knight’s
piece in chess. Black 1 is a keima = (small) knight’s move from .
If the jump goes one line further, like White 2 from , it is called
“ōgeima” (= large knight’s move).
61
Kikashi
2 1
kikashi
Forcing move. A sente move, which often has some additional effect that
might be used later. Often played outside the main flow of play.
62
Ko
ko
2 1
ko-rule
Shape in which the rules prohibit the immediate capture of a single stone
(White 2) that has just captured a single stone at the prohibited point (ko).
63
Me ari me nashi (One eye vs. no eye)
me ari me nashi
Capturing race wherein one side ( ) has an eye (e), the other ( ) does
not.
64
Miai
A 1
B 2
miai
Two options with the same value, or purpose. If one player takes one of
them, the other one is left for the opponent (who is often forced to play
there).
65
Seki
seki
Mutual life, shared life. A configuration where groups of both colours
share liberties, and are not independently alive. Neither side may capture
any of their opponent stones without losing more points than they gain.
66
Semeai
“Capturing race”. Fight for life and death, usually involving only two
groups.
67
Sente
Initiative. A move which is answered.
68
Shortage of liberties
shortage of liberties
For example, Black cannot play at A to secure two eyes for his group
without putting his own stones ( ) in atari.
69
Snapback
1 3
2
snapback
One side sacrifices a single stone (here White 1, which is captured by
Black 2) in order to recapture a larger opponent’s group (here with White
3).
70
Tesuji
A skilful move that is the best play in a local position.
71
Throw-in
2 1
throw-in
An aid to killing or capturing using a sacrifice stone, which results in a
false eye shape ( , ✕) and which is often used to prevent the opponent
from connecting at that point, or to reduce eye space.
72
Tsume-Go
The field of “Life & Death” problems.
73
Problems
74
Problem 001
Black to kill.
< Go to the solution >
< Go to the next problem >
75
All the problem diagrams in this book are interactive, but probably not as
you expected.
I ask for your kind understanding that it was not possible to include entire
solution sequences. There are so many sub-variations available that it
would not really help to have only the main line included; but realising the
entire variation tree is impractical.
Therefore, you will find “level 1” of the variation tree only; this is the next
move, here “1”. The feedback of the program is as follows:
- When tapping on a “correct” solution point, the respective stone will be

displayed.
– When tapping on a “failure” point that is further explained in the book,
the respective stone will be played, but with a red “X” on it.
– When tapping on any other board point, only a red “X” will be shown.
This is useful for two reasons:
– You will be able to check your main ideas to some extent before flipping
the pages.
– You will be shown which failure moves will be explained and their
refutations discussed.
Please kindly note that correct starting points that result from a change in
the order of moves of the solution sequence might not be highlighted as
“correct” in the respective problem diagram.
Next column: Variation tree
76
○●○●○●○●○
1
●○●○●○●○●
> 1
> 3
> 1
> 3
> 4
> 1
> 2
> 3
> 3
2
> 2
4
> 4
5
> 5
Next page: Hints
77
Hints 001
White’s potential eye space (●) is already divided into two parts.
78
e
At the top, there is one sure eye (e) for White.
79
? ?
? ?
The marked area on the bottom (?) is still unsettled, so Black will have to
stop White from getting her second eye there.
80
Parts of White’s formation are not yet solidly connected ( ), leaving
cutting points for Black to exploit.
81
2
2
White’s single stones at the left have only two liberties, and so are very
vulnerable to an attack.
However, this book is about tsume-go, and so you should be on your guard
here.
It is always advisable to think twice before giving atari to a single stone (or
a group of stones) – especially in the very beginning of the solution
82
sequence – as this move might be sente.
It is also very advisable to think twice before cutting into the opponent’s
formation – especially in the very beginning of the solution sequence– just
for the sake of capturing some stone(s) that look like as if they could
become captured quite easily,
Very often, these types of “easy prey” are only on the board to bedazzle
your mind!
4 4
4 4
4 4 4
4
83
White’s large group at the right has four liberties, and so will not be the
primary aim of Black’s forthcoming attack.
In the left centre of the bottom area, there is a line of false eyes visible ( ,
✕).
< Excursus – Real eyes vs. false eyes >
84
Please note that Black also needs a permanent stone at its other end on the
bottom to bring this line to life.
At the utmost left, there is already a false eye for White ( , ✕).
85
At the left, White’s -stones deny Black easy access from that side.
86
!!
At the right, there is a hole (!!) in White’s encirclement, giving Black

access to the bottom area inside White’s formation.
87
At the right, Black has a strong outside position ( ) that is looking
forward to friendly stones on at least one of the ◇-points.
88
However, Black must be very well aware that connecting stones out that
are arranged on a zigzag line (✕, ) might suffer from a shortage of
liberties.
< Excursus – Cutting points reduce your options for connecting out >
< Return to the problem >
Next page: Solution
89
Solution 001
B
1 A
The placement of Black 1 hits the vital point of the problem. This move
threatens either to connect out to the right, by playing at A, or to cut / give
atari at the left, by playing at B.
Black will succeed neither by cutting at the left, nor by playing hane at the
90
right, nor by jumping one point farther to the left.
Tapping on hyperlinks like those above (i.e. the text in blue) will take you
to another sub-variation of the current variation tree. This will include
either another problem (for a mistaken choice) or a variation (for an
alternative option).
At the end of these sub-variations you will find a hyperlink that brings you
back again. Hopefully this will ease your attempts to analyze the various
options that are included in the problem.
91
A 2
White descends to 2, blocking Black’s escape route to the right.
White might try to play at the left, with a move at A, instead, but this
option will not work either.
92
3 A
4
Black uses his second option and cuts at 3.
Black’s last move is also an atari, so White connects at 4.
White might try to give atari at A instead, but this option will not work
either.
93
B
C A 5
Black 5 descends on the outside, simultaneously occupying an important

liberty of White’s right-hand group. Now, neither side can play at A or at
B.
Black, however, can attack White’s left-hand group from the outside and
capture it, eventually resolving the partial seki mentioned above. White’s
right-hand group has only one eye, and so is dead.
94
This descent is the usual move shown in the books. In a real game, it might
be advisable, because it solidly closes the bottom area.
< Excursus – All stones are shown that might affect the solution >
Black might consider giving atari at C instead.
< Return to the hints >
95
Next column: Variation
96
Variation for Black 5
Black 5 gives atari to White’s three stones.
97
6
7
White’s counter-atari at 6 is fruitless.
Black simply captures at 7, and there is nothing left that White could do at
the left.
98
At the very end of every single (sub-) variation you will find a diagram like
this one above, showing the status of the final position.
< Return to previous choice >
You will find hyperlinks “Return to previous choice” at the end of every
sub-variation. Tapping on these will take you (probably back) to the
99
superordinate branching point of the current variation tree. Hopefully this
feature will ease browsing through the various options that are included in
the problem.
100
Variation for White 4
4
5
White 4 gives counter-atari at two single black stones, but this will not
lead to success.
Black 5 captures White’s single stone at the left, saving his just-played
stone on the second line.
101
6
White desperately captures a black stone with 6, but there will be no ko.
102
7
Black 7 simply connects solidly, and White is left with a false eye on the
bottom.
103
104
The diagonal move of White 2 hinders Black from cutting at the left.
105
4
3 5
Black, however, uses his second option and connects his pivotal stone out
with 3.
White desperately gives atari with 4.
Black must answer with the solid connection of 5, saving his two stones.
On the lower edge, White has only false eyes, and so is dead.
106
Next page: Failure
107
001 Problem (failure I)
Black just cut at the left.
Maybe you wonder about the fact that White’s last (mistaken) move is not
highlighted in the problem diagram, but described only verbally in the text
above. You might remember that this was also the case in the comment of
108
the solution’s main line that linked to this sub-variation here.
The reasoning for doing so is quite simple: I do not want you to memorize,
and to learn, false moves.
White to live (by means of ko).
Probably you are taken by surprise to find the explicit hint in parenthesis
above, making it evident that the correct solution to the problem will result
in a ko fight.
This is quite unusual for books on Go problems, and it is also said to be

somewhat counterproductive to the aims that should be reached by
studying such a book. Of course in real games there is no one standing
nearby telling you to be aware of “ko” just now.
However, “ko” is one of my very blind spots, and I would like to assume
that it is not me alone who suffers from this kind of “debility of sight”. For
this reason, the treatment of ko fights in this book will be much more
detailed than usual.
< Go to the next failure >
109
1
○●○●○●○●○
> 1
●○●○●○●○●
> 3
> 1
> 3
> 4
> 1
> 2
> 3
> 3
2
> 2
4
> 4
5
> 5
Next page: Solution
110
001 Solution (failure I)
Think twice before giving atari to a single opponent stone! Your opponent
might not connect, taking you by surprise.
White 2 gives atari from below, using the special arrangement of her -
stones at the left.
111
3
Black captures with 3, starting a ko fight for the life of White’s group.
Giving atari in the corner instead will also result in a ko fight, but Black
should refrain from doing so.
Gaining a ko is a success for White here, because Black could have done
better and killed her group unconditionally.
112
ko
From White’s point of view, this ko is a bit like an approach-move ko.

White has to look for the first valid ko threat.
113
If Black wins the ko fight.
●○●○●○●○●○●
114
4 5
White 4 is a valid ko threat, answered by Black 5.
Please note that – when explaining an entire course of a ko fight – ko

threats which are placed outside the problem area (i.e. “are played
elsewhere”; here White 4) are displayed in an empty area at a border of
the diagrams.
Please also note that answers (here Black 5) to valid ko threats are also
115
shown in that border area of the diagrams, at a point that is adjacent to
the respective ko threat.
None of these moves is assumed to change the environmental conditions

on the “outside” of the original problem.
White recaptures the ko with 6.
< Excursus – Ko fights (I) >
8
7 A B
116
Instead of looking for a external ko threat of his own in the rest of the
board, Black plays the atari of 7 here as a local / an internal ko-threat.
White is unable to connect the ko at A, due to Black B, and so captures

Black’s remaining stone with 8.
Black 9 recaptures the ko.
117
10 11
B
12 A
White 10 is the second valid ko threat that White will have to find.
White 12 recaptures the ko again.
In principle, playing White 10 at A instead will not make a big difference.

Black simply captures at B, and the ko will be fought around the -point
now.
However, if White had supporting stones on the lower edge, the descent to
118
A might provide her with several internal ko threats at the bottom right,
threatening to connect her group successfully to the outside.
13
14
White ignores Black’s ko threat of 13 to connect the ko with 14.
Please note that White needed two more valid ko threats than Black to win
the ko fight here, instead of only one.
119
e
If White wins the ko fight.
Next column: Lessons learned
120
Lessons learned
Think twice before giving atari to a single opponent stone!
121
Be aware that your opponent will think twice before connecting a single
stone that is in atari.
122
ko
Consider carefully whether your opponent might be able to establish a ko

shape ( , △), forcing you to start an uncalled-for ko fight.
123
Establishing a valid line of false eyes ( , ✕) requires your stones
occupying both end points of this line, not occupying its central point.
Next page: Failure
124
001 Problem (failure II)
Black just played atari in the corner.
125
126
1
> 1
○●○●○●○●○
> 3
●○●○●○●○●
> 1
> 3
> 4
> 1
> 2
> 3
> 3
2
> 2
4
> 4
5
> 5
Next page: Solution
127
001 Solution (failure II)
White 4 captures Black’s single stone inside her formation.
128
5
Black has to capture at 5.
129
ko
This ko fight is favourable for White, but nevertheless, she has to look for
the first valid ko threat.
130
6 7
White 6 is a valid ko threat that is answered by Black 7.
White 8 recaptures the ko.
131
9
10
White ignores Black’s ko threat of 9 in order to connect at 10, ending the

ko fight in her favour.
132
e
○●○●○●○●○●○
133
9
7 8
Black ignores White’s first ko threat and connects the ko at 7.
But this connection will not terminate the ko fight.
White’s descent to 8 threatens to continue at 9, securing her second eye.
Black 9 captures, continuing the ko fight, in which the ko shape simply

changed place.
134
ko
This is a direct ko now. White has to find the first valid ko threat.
135
10
11
Black ignores White’s ko threat of 10 in order to connect at 11, ending the

ko fight.
Black had to ignore two white ko threats to win the ko fight, not only one.
136
137
Lessons learned
ko
Do not play a forcing move from the outside ( ) instead of capturing a ko.
You might lose internal ko threats unnecessarily.
138
ko
ko
Do not let your opponent create a series of nested ko shapes ( ).
You will have to ignore two ko threats to win the ko fight, instead of only
one.
Next page: Failure
139
001 Problem (failure III)
Black just played hane at the right.
140
141
1
>1
> 3
○●○●○●○●○
> 1
●○●○●○●○●
> 3
> 4
> 1
> 2
> 3
> 3
2
> 2
4
> 4
5
> 5
Next page: Solution
142
001 Solution (failure III)
White blocks Black’s further approach with the atari of 2, aiming at a

potential eye space that is as large as possible.
Please note that White occupied the vital point of the problem that Black
should have taken in the very beginning.
143
3
Black cuts at 3, stopping White from getting an eye on the bottom quite
easily.
Black must not play atari to the first line instead.
144
5 4
White 4 is a counter-atari. Black has to capture with 5, starting a ko fight

again.
145
ko
This ko fight is advantageous for Black, because White will need two
more valid ko threats than Black to win the fight.
146
●○●○●○●○●○●
147
6 7
White plays a valid ko threat with 6 that is answered by Black 7.
This enables her to recapture the ko with 8.
148
10
9 A
The atari of Black 9 is an internal ko threat.
Due to Black , White is unable to connect the ko with a move at A, and

so has to capture at 10 instead.
149
11
150
12 13
14 A
White plays another valid ko threat with 12.
Please note that White – in a real game; with supporting stones on the
lower edge – might profit from capturing at A (as an internal ko threat), if
this move contains a threat to connect to the outside successfully.
151
15
16
White connects the ko with 16, ignoring Black’s ko threat of 15.
Again, White needed two more valid ko threats than Black to win the ko
fight.
152
e
153
Lessons learned
Before reducing from the outside, consider carefully whether your

opponent’s remaining potential eye space might be sufficient for building
an eye.
154
The central point (□) of a dead eye shape (△, □) inside your opponent’s
formation often guides you to an important shape point.
But do not assume that the work will be always done with only occupying
this point.
155
Your opponent will think twice before connecting a single stone that is put
in atari.
156
ko

shape ( , △), forcing you to start an uncalled-for ko fight.
157
Your opponent’s initial reply (△) might be the vital point that you should
have taken.
Next page: Failure
158
001 Problem (failure IV)
Black just played atari to the first line.
White to live.
159
160
1
>1
> 3
> 1
○●○●○●○●○
> 3
●○●○●○●○●
> 4
> 1
> 2
> 3
> 3
2
> 2
4
> 4
5
> 5
Next page: Solution
161
001 Solution (failure IV)
A
4
White 4 simply captures at the right.
She might give atari at A instead.
162
A 5 6
7 8
Black 5 desperately cuts at the left, but White 6 immobilises his two stones
successfully.
Playing 5 at 8 is useless as well. White simply captures Black’s two stones

with a move at 5, securing her second eye on the bottom, at the point of 6.
Black gives atari with 7, forcing White to capture his two stones with 8.
Eventually, White has got a living shape.
163
Black is unable to capture with 7 at 8, due to the snap-back of White A.
164
White 4 gives atari at the left.
165
5
Capturing with 5 will not benefit Black.
166
6 B A
White gives atari with 6, and Black would have to invest two moves in a
row (A and B) to save his stones. White will live by capturing Black’s two
stones that are in atari.
167
7 8
Connecting at 7 reduces the shape on the bottom to only one eye, but this
move is fruitless here. White simply captures four black stones with 8.
168
9 10
The placement of Black 9 does not work here, due to White’s strong
position at the left (and her second eye above). White connects at 10 and is
alive.
< Excursus – Capturing a four-stone pyramid shape on the edge >
169
e
170
Lessons learned
171
stone that is put in atari.
172
Remember that connecting stones out that are arranged on a zigzag line (
, ✕) might suffer from a shortage of liberties.
173
Capturing a four-stone pyramid shape ( , , ✕) on the bottom is
equivalent to an eye (in gote).
174
Your opponent will defend their important cutting points in order to
consolidate the borders of their formation.
Next page: Failure
175
001 Problem (failure V)
Black just played a placement on the first line.
White to live.
176
177
1
> 1
> 3
> 1
3>
> 4
○●○●○●○●○
> 1
●○●○●○●○●
> 2
> 3
> 3
2
> 2
4
> 4
5
> 5
Next page: Solution
178
001 Solution (failure V)
A
2
White 2 occupies the vital point of the problem, securing life for her
group. Black’s initially played stone lost a decisive liberty by this move.
Please note this is the point that Black should have taken beforehand.
Alternatively, White might consider immediately connecting at A instead.
179
3 4
A 5
The cut of Black 3 is a desperate attempt, but will be frustrated by White

4.
Black might consider playing 3 at A, but this will also fail to kill White.
It is fruitless for Black to capture with 5.
In a real game, Black would recognize his mistake with 3, and continue on
the outside, with 5 at A (White will live by capturing two black stones
180
with a move at 5).
White 6 captures Black’s three stones in a snap-back.
181
A 7 8
Black throws in with 7, but White captures with 8 and secures her second
eye above.
In a real game, Black will play 7 at A, forcing White to connect at 7.
182
9 10
Black 9 blocks the corner. White connects with 10 and lives with two eyes.
183
e
184
Black has the option to give atari from the left, with the move at 3.
185
4
A
White cannot connect at A, due to her shortage of liberties. However, the

connection at 4 does the job.
186
A
5
Capturing with Black 5 does not have any effect on White’s second eye at
A.
187
6
White recaptures with 6 here, for demonstrative purposes only.
< Excursus – Capturing two stones on the edge >
188
7
Black 7 captures White’s single stone, simultaneously making the eye on

the first line false. But White has already two eyes elsewhere, and so is
alive.
189
e
190
White 2 solidly connects at the left, in principle immobilising Black’s just-

played stone inside her formation.
191
3 4
Black 3 extends to the right, occupying the vital point of the problem, but
this move comes too late now.
Black might consider playing at 4 instead.
White’s descent to 4 blocks Black’s escape route to the right.
192
6
5
Cutting at the left, by playing at 5, does not benefit Black.
White 6 captures three black stones for an eye.
193
7 8
Black throws in at 7, but White captures at 8, occupying the miai point.
White has got two eyes, and so is alive.
< Excursus – Capturing three stones on the edge >
194
e
195
Variation for Black 3 (White 2)
Black’s hane at 3 also tries to connect his stone out to the right.
196
5
B 4 A
However, White throws in at 4, aiming at creating a shortage of liberties

on Black’s side.
Black captures with 5.
In a real game, Black will connect at A at the right, forcing White to

capture at B at the left, avoiding an uncalled-for ko fight for the life of her
group.
197
6 A B
White connects at 6, also giving atari.
Black is unable to connect his two stones at A, due to White B.
198
8 7
Black 7 connects at the outside, forcing White to live by capturing two

black stones.
199
e
e
e
200
Lessons learned
!!
Before jumping deeply into your opponent’s formation, aiming at

destroying a potential eye, consider carefully your options for connecting
out.
Only one hole (!!) in your opponent’s encirclement might not be sufficient
201
for success. Your opponent might have a quite simple option for defence
up their sleeves.
Do not be taken by surprise if your opponent simply connects an important

cutting point in their formation.
202
3
Consider the liberty count of your own stones carefully.
Capturing the central stone of a line of false eyes ( ) alone might result in
an uncalled-for snap-back.
203
204
have taken.
205
However, there is no guarantee that each such point (△) will be really a
correct starting point for the solution sequence.
That alternative option still might be better than your current move, but
nevertheless, not as good as the correct solution.
Remember that it is always necessary to think before making a choice

between two seemingly equal valued options.
206
Next page: Next problem
207
Problem 002
White to live.
208
209
○●○●○●○●○
1
●○●○●○●○●
> 1
> 3
> 4
> 3
> 5
> 1
> 2
> 1
> 3
6
> 6
Next page: Hints
210
Hints 002
White’s potential eye space (●) consists of only three points.
211
However, if we assume that White extends to either side (answered by a
black block in each case), her maximum potential eye space will be five
points (●), arranged in a long line of empty points.
212
White’s partial groups are not yet solidly connected ( ), leaving a cutting
point for Black to exploit.
213
This cutting point is the source of the marked line of false eyes ( , ✕).
214
Inside White’s formation, there is a dead three-point eye shape visible
(△), whose central point is still unoccupied.
< Excursus – Dead eye shapes >
215
Black’s position on the right is quite strong, but his -stones are
positioned only on the third line.
This implies that there might be some scope for action for White.
216
The surrounding position at the left is different.
Black’s -stone is positioned on the second line, weakening White’s

options to some extend.
217
On the other hand, this single black stone is not yet solidly connected to
his allies, and the corner is very near, with its very special properties.
It is not unlikely that this will become the source of some weaknesses on
Black’s side.
Next page: Solution
218
Solution 002
A
1
White 1 hits the central point of a (nearly) symmetrical position. White has
not much room to manoeuvre in, so she must use her options carefully.
And she has to be very fast.
< Excursus – Six live, four die >
219
It seems likely to me that White also has the option to start pushing to the
right, with a move at A, instead.
White will succeed neither by solidly connecting her cutting point, nor by
pushing to the left.
Black 2 is an atari that is not really necessary in the course of the solution
sequence, but it serves to clarify the position.
220
White’s connection at 3 is forced, and prevents a ko fight for the life of her
group.
4
5
Black 4 threatens White’s eye space at the right.
The descent of White 5 secures an eye on the first line.
221
6
7
The same procedure at the left. White lives with two eyes after her final
descent at 7.
Simple and straightforward, isn’t it?

However, we will encounter a more interesting feature of this problem
when Black tries playing 6 at 7. It looks like that there is a black stone in
the corner eagerly waiting for giving support.
222
e e
223
Black 6 attaches at the first line, hoping for the support of his stone in the
corner.
To be continued …
224
Next page: Variation
225
Problem 002 (variation I)
White to live.
226
227
1
> 1
> 3
> 4
> 3
> 5
> 1
> 2
> 1
> 3
6
○●○●○●○●○
> 6
●○●○●○●○●
Next page: Hints
228
Hints 002 (variation I)
White’s maximum potential eye space (●) still consists of three points, and
is already divided into two sections.
229
e
At the right, White has a sure eye (e).
230
? ? ? ?
At the left, White has to consider Black’s single stone on the first line. She
will have to establish her second eye in the ?-area.
231
Black’s troublemaker on the first line might become part of a false eye ( ,
✕).
232
One step to the left, there is another potential line of false eyes visible (✕).
233
And near the corner, there is a third option for a line of false eyes ( , ✕).
234
On the other hand, Black’s single stone in the corner is not yet solidly
connected to his allies.
It is not unlikely that this will become the source of some weaknesses on
Black’s side, due to the very special properties of the corner area.
Next page: Solution
235
Solution 002 (variation I)
9 7
10 8
White has only one eye at the right, so it is a must for her to capture
Black’s just-played stone. Pushing with White 7 and 9 is mandatory if
White wants to create another real eye.
Giving atari with 8, or 10, instead would create only a false eye on the first
236
line.
12 11
White’s throw-in of 11 is the first step of utilizing the special conditions of

the corner here. This move is also an atari, but Black cannot let White
capture his three stones, because this would be equivalent to one eye.
Black 12 captures White’s single stone, but this will not help in erasing
Black’s weaknesses in the corner.
237
B
A 13
White 13 gives atari to Black’s three stones again. Black is unable to

connect at A, due to White B.
238
14
15
Connecting on the outside with Black 14 does not help either.
White 15 captures three stones on the edge.
239
16
Black 16 recaptures.
240
17
However, there is sufficient room left for White’s block with 17. She has
got her second eye, and so is alive.
241
e e
242
Solution 002 (variation II)
White 1 extends to the right, where Black’s stones are positioned only at
the third line, aiming at enlarging her potential eye space.
Please note that the problem’s position is not really symmetrical; White
must not start with extending to the left instead.
243
Please also note that this move is given in the books only in combination
with a mistaken follow-up move by White.
B 2 C
A
Black 2 at the right blocks White’s further extension from the outside. This
is the only reply to White’s initial move that is given in the books.
Therefore, I would like to assume that the placement of Black A in the

centre, or the block of Black B at the left, instead will not kill White’s
244
group, due to White’s attachment at C at the right.
At least I was unable to find a sequence for Black to seal White’s group in
and – at the same time – to prevent two eyes for that group (if you found
any, please let me know).
There is no further room for white actions on the bottom, so White is

forced to retreat and to come back to the vital point of 3.
245
White will succeed neither by descending at the right, nor by pushing at
the left.
5 4
Black can reduce White’s eye space a bit, …
246
6
7
… but cannot stop White’s group from getting two eyes.
247
e e
Next page: Failure
248
002 Problem (variation II – failure I)
White just descended at the right.
Black to kill.
249
250
1
> 1
○●○●○●○●○
> 3
●○●○●○●○●
> 4
> 3
> 5
> 1
> 2
> 1
> 3
6
> 6
Next page: Solution
251
002 Solution (variation II – failure I)
4
A
The block of Black 4 at the left reduces White’s potential eye space
decisively.
Black might consider immediately occupying the problem’s vital point at

A instead.
252
5 6
White 5 and Black 6 are miai.
253
8
9 7
White 7 establishes an eye at the right, but Black takes the miai point of 8,
cutting White apart.
Capturing Black’s two stones with 9 will not benefit White.
254
10
Black 10 throws in, creating a false eye.
255
256
A
4
The placement of Black 4 occupies the problem’s vital point.
Black threatens to cut at A, aiming at capturing White’s single stone

above.
257
5 6
White’s descent to 5 at the left occupies a liberty of Black’s just-played

stone.
Black’s extension to 6 is a calm answer that reduces White to only one eye
at the right.
258
9 7
11 10 8
White tries her best to expand her potential eye space at the left, by
extending to 7.
Black 8 stops White from getting another eye at the left.
White 9 forces Black to extend to 10, and finally White 11 gives atari in
the corner; but on only two black stones.
259
C
B
12 A
Black is able to capture at 12.
White cannot give atari at A, due to Black B.
Black could also play 12 at C, solidly connecting his single stone in the
corner. Capturing his two stones on the first line will provide White with
only a false eye.
260
261
Lessons learned
When maximising your potential eye space, do not leave a dead eye shape
(△) inside your formation behind, whose central point is still unoccupied.
262
Consider carefully the consequences of an opponent’s move on the central
point (□) of that dead eye shape.
You might not have enough room outside this dead eye shape (●) left for
getting a second eye.
263
An opponent stone on the second line ( ) will stop you from turning any
of the ◇-points into territory, and massively restrict your options for
enlarging your potential eye space in that area.
264
have taken.
265
That alternative option might not be better than your current move.

266
Next page: Failure
267
002 Problem (variation II – failure II)
White just pushed to the left.
Black to kill.
268
269
1
> 1
3>
> 4
○●○●○●○●○
> 3
●○●○●○●○●
> 5
> 1
> 2
> 1
> 3
6
> 6
Next page: Solution
270
002 Solution (variation II – failure II)
Black punishes White’s mistake by occupying the point of 4 that White

should have taken beforehand, instead of choosing her previous move.
271
A
7 5 6
White tries her best by descending to 5 in order to partition her potential

eye space.
She might try to solidly connect at A instead.
The hane of Black 6 stops White from getting an eye at the right.
Thereafter, White 7 secures an eye in the centre of White’s position; Black

cannot play at A any longer, making this central white eye false.
272
9
11 10 8
Black 8 hits the point that is necessary to prevent a white eye at the left.
The corner with its special conditions is near, so White tries the same
procedure as in the variation of the solution, with pushing at 9.
But here, however, White’s atari at 11 attacks only two black stones, one
stone less than in the solution’s variation.
273
12
A 13
Black is able to securely connect at 12.
Black could capture White’s single stone in the corner instead, with a
move at A. White would be unable to give atari at 13, due to her shortage
of liberties.
Capturing two black stones with 13 does not really help White, …
274
14
… because the throw-in of Black 14 makes her potential eye at the left
false.
275
276
Variation for White 5 (White 3)
White 5 connects solidly, but her potential eye space is one point too small
for getting life.
277
6
Black’s hane 6 at the right reduces White’s potential eye space decisively.
278
7
8 9 10
White 7 is a desperate attempt to enlarge her potential eye space, and could
also be played immediately at 9.
The hane of Black 8 makes miai between White 9 and Black 10, so White
is reduced to only one eye, and is dead.
279
280
Lessons learned
281
282
? ? ?
A current weakness in your encirclement ( ) might hinder you from

further enlarging your potential eye space (?).
283
284
have taken.
Next page: Failure
285
White just connected in the centre of her formation.
Black to kill.
286
287
1
> 1
3>
> 4
> 3
> 5
○●○●○●○●○
> 1
●○●○●○●○●
> 2
> 1
> 3
6
> 6
Next page: Solution
288
A 2
B
Black blocks with 2 at the right – this will be the best choice in a real
game. White’s potential eye space is not large enough for two eyes.
With regard to White’s group, the position is symmetrical, so Black gets

the same result by blocking at A at the left.
289
Black might also consider occupying the problem’s vital point of B
instead.
4 3
5 8 7 6
White tries her best with 3 and 5, to enlarge her potential eye space at the
left.
But thereafter, the hane of Black 6 at the right is fatal.
White 7 and Black 8 are miai. White has only one eye, and so is dead.
290
291
Black 2 occupies the vital point of the problem that White should have
taken beforehand.
In a real game, Black would choose the more solid option from the outside
instead.
292
3 4
White 3 tries to expand her potential eye space at the right.
She is blocked by Black 4.
293
6 5
294
9 7
10 8 A
White extends to 7 at the left, again trying to maximise her potential eye
space.
Black must be on his guard to not answer in the same way as at the right.
Black attaches at 8, stopping White from getting an eye in that area.
Black must not block at 9 instead. White would answer by descending to

8, and Black will be forced to play at A in order to gain a seki.
295
White 9 forces Black to extend to 10.
12
A 11 13
White’s throw-in at 11 is fruitless.
Black simply connect at 12.
Black might also capture at A, to the same effect.
White 13 captures only two black stones.
296
14
Black’s final throw-in at 14 turns White’s potential eye at the left into a
false one, so White is dead with only one eye at the right.
297
298
Lessons learned
299
300
301
have taken.
302
That alternative option might not be better than your current move.

303
Next page: Failure
304
White just pushed to the left.
Black to kill.
305
306
1
> 1
> 3
> 4
> 3
> 5
>1
> 2
○●○●○●○●○
> 1
●○●○●○●○●
> 3
6
> 6
Next page: Solution
307
2 B
A
Black 2 blocks at the right.
Black might choose the placement of A instead. This move will revert to
the sequence that we have seen in “002 Problem (variation II – failure II)”,
after White 2, Black B.
308
A
4 3
White 3 descends at the right, trying to maximise her potential eye space.
White might try pushing further at the left, with a move at A.
Black 4 occupies the vital point of the problem.
Please note that White 3 and Black 4 are miai here, playing with 3 at 4 is
not a promising option for White.
309
6 5
The connection of White 5 and Black 6 are miai.
310
7 8
Also miai are White 7 and Black 8. White is reduced to only one eye, and
so is dead.
311
312
White might try pushing another time at the left, with the move at 3.
313
4
However, Black’s hane at 4 will be fatal.
314
5 6
White’s descent to 5 aims at maximising her potential eye space at the left.
Black’s placement at 6 is the most clear-cut continuation and stops White

from getting an eye at the right.
Please verify for yourself that Black has many alternative options here that
will also work.
315
7
9 8 10
White cannot intercept at 8, due to her shortage of liberties, so she

connects her forces with her move at 7. But White will be unable to
capture any black stone.
After Black’s connections of 8 and of 10, White’s remaining eye space is

too small for two eyes.
316
317
Lessons learned
318
319
? ? ?
A current weakness in your encirclement ( ) might hinder you from

further enlarging your potential eye space (?).
320
An opponent stone on the second line ( ) will massively restrict your
options for enlarging your potential eye space in the neighbouring area.
321
have taken.
322
Problem 003
Black to kill.
323
324
○●○●○●○●○
1
●○●○●○●○●
> 1
> 2
> 3
> 1
> 1
> 2
2
> 2
> 2
3
> 3
> 6
Next page: Hints
325
Hints 003
White’s maximum potential eye space (●) is already divided into two
sections, a smaller one at the top and a larger one at the bottom.
326
2 2
White’s two stones at the top have only two liberties, and could be put into
atari quite easily.
However, we are in tsume-go here, so it is very advisable to think twice

before giving atari, as this move could be sente, and / or would destroy a
potential eye.
Be aware that your opponent will think twice before connecting stones that
327
are in atari, especially when these endangered stones are positioned on the
outskirts of their formation.
Therefore, you will have to make sure that these stones are really
“important” ones before giving atari. Otherwise, the bigger fish might
bounce off the hook.
There is also the imminent danger with this type of stones that these might
be only on the board to bedazzle your mind.
!!
!!
!! !!
328
There are three holes (!!) in White’s encirclement, a larger one in the lower
left, two smaller ones at the top and at the right.
On the bottom, there is the marked five-point dead eye shape ( , △)

visible.
However, you will have to take into account that Black’s single stone does
329
not occupy its central point.
Black’s descent of at the left significantly weakens White’s position in

that area.
330
2
Black’s single stone inside White’s formation has only two liberties, and
so is in imminent danger of being captured.
Additionally, it is positioned on the second line, not the first one, so

connecting this stone to the left might run into additional problems.
331
Next page: Solution
332
Solution 003
The diagonal move of Black 1 threatens to connect his endangered stone

out that is located in the centre of White’s formation.
Black will succeed neither by descending to the first line, nor by giving
atari to White’s two stones at the top, nor by playing hane at the right.
333
A
B
2
White 2 jumps to the first line at the left, hoping for a Black mistake.
White might consider creating a sure eye on the top, with a move at A, or
giving atari at B, instead.
334
3
The atari of Black 3 destroys White’s hopes for an eye at the top. Black
knows that White’s remaining potential eye space on the bottom alone will
not be sufficient for two eyes.
Black must not give atari to White’s single stone at the bottom left instead.
335
A 4
5 7 6
White desperately gives atari at 4.
Connecting solidly at A instead is no real option for White.
Black will answer with a move at 7, establishing a dead eye shape inside
White’s formation as well.
Black connects at 5, after which White 6 and Black 7 are miai. White has
only one eye on the bottom, and so is dead.
336
337
Variation for White 2 (I)
The solid move of White 2 secures an eye at the top.
338
3 4 5
However, Black 3 leads his stones on the bottom securely into the open.
White has not enough space left for building an eye on the bottom.
339
340
Variation for White 2 (II)
White 2 gives atari from above.
341
5
A
4 3 6
Black connects with 3, after which White must block Black’s escape route
with the atari of 4.
Black 5 destroys White’s potential eye at the top.
White 6 captures three black stones. But this capture is not sente here
(forcing Black to play the placement of 3), due to the remaining cutting
point of A.
342
8
9 7
Black 7 destroys White’s hopes for another eye on the bottom. Thereafter,
White 8 and Black 9 are miai. White has one eye only, and so is dead.
343
Next page: Failure
344
Black just played atari at the left.
White to live.
345
346
1
> 1
> 2
> 3
> 1
> 1
> 2
2
> 2
> 2
3
○●○●○●○●○
> 3
●○●○●○●○●
> 6
Next page: Solution
347
White 4 gives atari from above.
348
B
A 5 6
Black connects at 5.
Capturing at A instead is fruitless, because White will get a living shape by

also capturing at 5.
White captures Black’s three stones with 6. This capture will provide her
with a sure eye, and she has two other options left for creating a second
one.
349
White might also consider connecting at B instead, saving her two stones
for a sure eye at the top.
8 7
Black 7 and White 8 are miai, so Black cannot stop White from getting an
eye in this area.
350
A 9
10
The atari of Black 9 and White’s descent of 10 are miai. White has got a
second eye, and so is alive now.
Capturing or connecting at A is left as an endgame issue.
351
e
e
352
White 6 solidly closes the borders of her formation at the top.
This move secures her two stones, as well as an eye.
353
7
Black 7 captures on the bottom.
354
8
White descends to 8, giving atari to Black’s three stones.
355
9 10
Letting White capture these stones would also result in an eye, so Black
connects at 9.
White is forced to descent to 10 at the right, creating her second eye on the
bottom line.
356
e
357
Lessons learned
Connecting stones out that are arranged on a zigzag line ( ) might fail,
due to a shortage of liberties.
358
Sacrificing three stones ( , ✕) for an opponent’s eye will result in sente
for the attacker.
359
?
e
?
The defender, however, might be unaffected, as long as there are two

independent options (?) remaining for creating a second eye.
Next page: Failure
360
Black just descended to the first line.
White to live.
361
362
1
●○●○●○●○●
> 1
○●○●○●○●○
> 2
> 3
> 1
> 1
> 2
2
> 2
> 2
3
> 3
> 6
Next page: Solution
363
White descends to 2, occupying a decisive liberty of Black’s two stones.
She will also succeed by playing at A instead, securing an eye at the top.
364
3
Black 3 and White 4 are miai. White gets an eye for sure.
Thereafter, Black will be unable to save his two stones inside White’s
formation. These stones will become White’s second eye.
365
A 7
5 6
Black tries his best with the diagonal move of 5.
Playing at A instead will not help either. White will capture Black’s two
stones by a move at 7.
White throws in at 6, aiming at Black’s shortage of liberties. Black

captures with 7, but …
366
8
B A
… White gives atari at 8. Black is unable to connect at A, due to White B.
367
e
e
368
White 2 secures an eye on the top, letting Black lead his two stones on the
bottom into the open.
369
3
A
The solid move of 3 allows Black to save his two endangered stones.
Black might also play at A instead.
370
4
7 5 6 8
White 4 threatens Black’s connection, so Black has to answer at 5.
White 6 is an atari now.
Black will connect his three stones, with a move at 7, letting White get her
second eye, with the descent at 8.
371
e
372
Black can also connect his two endangered stones with the diagonal move
at 3.
373
A
4 5
White’s descent at 4 contains a double threat. She can either build her
second eye on the first line at the right, or capture Black’s two -stones at
the left.
In a real game, Black will play at A instead of destroying White’s potential

eye at the right, with the hane of 5.
374
7
6
The atari of White 6 addresses Black’s shortage of liberties. Capturing

with 7 is of no use for Black.
375
8
B A
White 8 gives atari again, and Black is unable to connect at A, due to

White B.
376
e
377
Lessons learned
Not every central point of every dead eye shape is necessarily a vital point
of the problem that should be taken without thinking.
378
It is not always correct to sacrifice two stones ( ), instead of only one.
< Excursus – Adding a second stone for sacrifice >
379
Connecting stones out that are arranged on a zigzag line ( , ✕) might
fail, due to a shortage of liberties.
380
?
e
?
Sacrificing stones for an eye (e) might leave the defender unaffected, as
long as there are two independent options (?) remaining for creating a
second eye.
Next page: Failure
381
Black just destroyed White’s potential eye at top.
White to live.
382
383
1
> 1
2>
> 3
●○●○●○●○●
> 1
○●○●○●○●○
> 1
> 2
2
> 2
> 2
3
> 3
> 6
Next page: Solution
384
White 2 gives atari from below. This move securely captures Black’s
single stone for an eye, and also provides her with another eye on the first
line at the right.
385
5 6
4 3
Black can reduce White’s territory a bit, with his moves at 3 and at 5, but
will be unable to kill White’s group.
386
e
e
387
Lessons learned
1 1
Think twice before giving atari to opponent stones.
Especially if these stones are arranged at the outskirts of your opponent’s

formation.
388
are in atari.
Especially if these stones are arranged at the outskirts of his formation.

These stones might not be necessary for creating a living shape.
389
Destroying the smaller section of your opponent’s potential eye space does
not make sense, if the larger section remaining (●) contains sufficient
options for partitioning.
390
A dead eye shape that is visible inside your opponent’s formation might
not be critical, as long as its central point is still unoccupied.
Your opponent might benefit from taking this central point.
391
Consider carefully whether there is an option for your opponent remaining
to turn their potential eye space into a long line of points (●; “snake”) that
could be divided quite easily.
< Excursus – “Snakes” >
Next page: Failure
392
White to live.
393
394
1
> 1
> 2
> 3
> 1
●○●○●○●○●
> 1
○●○●○●○●○
> 2
2
> 2
> 2
3
> 3
> 6
Next page: Solution
395
White 2 gives atari from below, providing her with a sure eye (the
captured black stone). There are two options left for her second eye, so
Black is helpless.
White might consider connecting at A instead, saving her two stones at the
396
top.
5 6
4
Black 3 and White 4 are miai for White’s second eye.
Black’s turning move at 5 is sente, but nothing more than an endgame

issue.
397
e
e
398
White connects solidly at 2, closing the hole in her encirclement, and

simultaneously securing her second eye at the top.
White knows that Black’s single -stone on the bottom cannot escape.
399
3
Black tries his best with the diagonal move at 3.
400
4
White 4 gives atari to Black’s single stone, and Black cannot successfully
connect.
401
5 6
Black 5 and White 6 are miai, so White gets a living shape.
402
e
403
Lessons learned
Only slightly reducing the larger section of your opponent’s already

divided potential eye space (●) from the outside might not be sufficient for
success.
404
A dead eye shape that is visible inside (here: the larger section of) your
opponent’s formation might not be critical, as long as its central point is
still unoccupied.
Your opponent might benefit from taking this central point.
405
to turn (here: the larger section of) their potential eye space into a long line
of points (●; “snake”) that could be divided quite easily.
406
407
?
?
?
Your opponent will win, if there are three independent options (?)
remaining for creating an eye after your initial move.
You will only be able to destroy one of these, simply because it’s your
opponent’s turn now.
408
Problem 004
White to live.
409
410
○●○●○●○●○
1
●○●○●○●○●
> 1
> 1
> 2
> 2
> 3
> 1
> 2
> 1
> 4
3
> 3
Next page: Hints
411
Hints 004
White’s potential eye space (●) is small and quite bulky, but has a few
412
White’s partial groups are not yet solidly connected ( ), leaving cutting
points for Black to exploit.
413
Inside White’s formation, there is a dead five-point eye shape (△) visible,
which is completely unoccupied.
414
A second dead five point-eye shape (△), this time orientated to the left.
415
The central point of these dead eye shapes very often guides you to vital
shape points of the problem.
However, here we have two of these central points (□) to choose from.
Further information is needed for the forthcoming decision as to which one
of these might be promising.
416
Black’s formation at the right ( ) is very strong.
There is no option for White to get into the open there.
417
At the left, there is a similar arrangement of black stones ( ). But this one
contains some weaknesses, due to its diagonal connection near the edge of
the board.
418
!! !!
On the bottom line, there are two holes (!!) in White’s formation.
419
A line of false eyes ( , ✕) is visible at the left.
However, we already know that it might become difficult to connect stones

that are arranged on a zigzag line, due to shortage of liberties.
420
3 3
3 3 3 3
All of White’s partial groups have only three liberties – some of which are
shared – and so are quite vulnerable to an attack.
421
Please note White’s outside liberty (○) at the top.
If this liberty was occupied, White’s group would be dead as is stands.
Next page: Solution
422
Solution 004
The diagonal move of White 1 hits the vital point of the problem.
This move occupies the central point of the potential dead five-point eye
shape (△, White 1) that is orientated towards Black’s stronger side (the
right one).
423
White will succeed neither by playing a diagonal move at the left, nor by
descending at the left, nor by descending at the right, nor by connecting
solidly at the right.
2 A
B C D
Black 2 prevents a white move at the same point that would provide White
with two eyes easily.
Please note the value of White’s external liberty (○).
424
If this liberty was occupied by Black, his last move would be an atari to
White’s two stones above. White would be forced to connect at A, and
thereafter be killed by the sequence of Black B, White C, Black D.
A 3
The descent of White 3 occupies the miai point.
Please note that Black is hindered from giving atari with a move at A, due
to his shortage of liberties at the left.
425
White will not succeed by playing atari at the first line instead.
A B 4 5
Black 4 and White 5 are miai for a living white shape.
At the left, Black can neither approach at A, nor at B, so White’s three

stones are safe from becoming captured.
426
6
7
8 9
Black might force with 6 and 8 from the outside, but White 9 finally
captures Black’s two stones inside her formation for a sure eye.
427
e
e
Next page: Failure
428
White just played atari to the bottom.
Black to kill.
429
430
1
> 1
> 1
> 2
> 2
> 3
> 1
> 2
> 1
> 4
3
○●○●○●○●○
> 3
●○●○●○●○●
Next page: Solution
431
Black’s hane of 4 destroys White’s potential eye at the left in sente.
432
5
Capturing Black’s single stone with 5 does not really help White.
433
6
The hane of Black 6 is fatal. White has only one eye, and so is dead.
434
435
Lessons learned
436
When dividing your potential eye space (●), …
437
2 2
… do not leave a weakness behind that can be successfully attacked by

your opponent in sente.
438
? ?
Consider carefully whether two remaining options for your second eye (?)
are really miai.
Do not forget that your opponent will move next.
439
!! !!
Mind remaining holes (!!) in your formation. These might become the
source of your defeat.
440
have taken.
Next page: Failure
441
White just played a diagonal move at the left.
Black to kill.
442
443
1
○●○●○●○●○
> 1
●○●○●○●○●
> 1
> 2
> 2
> 3
> 1
> 2
> 1
> 4
3
> 3
Next page: Solution
444
Again, in answering White’s initial diagonal move on the first line, Black
cuts with 2.
445
3 A B
White cannot revert to the sequence of the correct solution by descending

to A, due to Black’s atari at B. There is no shortage of liberties for Black at
the right.
She has to immobilise Black’s single stone with 3 instead.
446
A
6 5 4
Black’s hane at 4 is also an atari.
White might answer at 5, or at A, but in any case, Black second hane at 6

is fatal.
447
448
Lessons learned
449
When you have to protect two cutting points in your formation, but cannot
do so simultaneously, …
450
… do not choose the cutting point on your opponent’s weaker side.
You will (probably unnecessarily) defend an area where you are already a
bit stronger than in the other one.
Next page: Failure
451
White just descended at the left.
Black to kill.
452
453
1
> 1
○●○●○●○●○
> 1
●○●○●○●○●
> 2
> 2
> 3
> 1
> 2
> 1
> 4
3
> 3
Next page: Solution
454
Black’s hane at 2 threatens to capture White’s two stones at the right.
Black must not play on the first line inside White’s formation instead (case
#1; case #2).
455
A
3
The diagonal move of White 3 stops Black from achieving his above-
mentioned aim.
White might also solidly connect at A, to the same effect.
456
5
4 A 6
The placement of Black 4 utilises White’s shortage of liberties at the right.

White is unable to connect at A.
White tries her best with the atari at 5, but the solid connection of Black 6
leaves White helpless again. The point of A is still taboo for White.
457
7
Capturing Black’s troublemaker with White 7 is of no use.
458
8
Black pushes with 8, creating a false eye for White. White has only one
eye, and so is dead.
459
460
White 3 connects solidly.
461
4
Black 4 occupies the vital point inside White’s formation, leaving a dead
eye shape behind.
462
463
Lessons learned
(△) behind, if you will be unable to successfully occupy its central point
thereafter – even in the case that your opponent attacks elsewhere first.
464
!! !!
Before closing one of two holes (!!) in your formation in order to solidify
your potential eye space, consider carefully whether your opponent might
successfully utilise the other one.
465
Do not leave your main weaknesses – here: a cutting point ( ) in
combination with only three liberties (○) – unprotected …
466
… in an area where your opponent is very strong on the outside ( ).
Next page: Failure
467
Black just played inside White’s formation.
White to live.
468
469
1
> 1
> 1
○●○●○●○●○
> 2
●○●○●○●○●
> 2
> 3
> 1
> 2
> 1
> 4
3
> 3
Next page: Solution
470
The diagonal move of White 3 prepares the division of White’s eye space.
It will result in a change in the order of moves of the correct solution.
471
B
4
A 5
Black’s extension to 4 does not help here. Due to the special circumstances
of the corner, Black is unable to give atari at A immediately (White could
capture at B).
White descends to 5, and is securely alive now.
Black 4 and White 5 are miai.
472
e
e
473
Lessons learned
474
Consider carefully what might happen after your opponent occupies the
central point (□) of the other dead eye shape available.
475
You might be at a disadvantage if your opponent is able to transform their
potential eye space into a long line of points (●; “snake”).
Next page: Failure
476
White to live.
477
478
1
>1
>1
> 2
○●○●○●○●○
> 2
●○●○●○●○●
> 3
> 1
> 2
> 1
> 4
3
> 3
Next page: Solution
479
The diagonal move of White 3 prepares the division of White’s eye space.
480
5
A 4 B
Black’s hane at 4 aims at connecting his pivotal stone to the right.
White 5 solidly connects, immobilising Black’s single stone inside her

formation.
Black cannot connect at A, due to White B.
481
7 6
Black 6 forces White to capture at 7, but Black cannot stop White from
getting two eyes.
482
e
e e
483
Lessons learned
484
Consider carefully what might happen after your opponent occupies the
central point (□) of the other dead eye shape available.
485
You might be at a disadvantage if your opponent is able to transform their
potential eye space into a long line of points (●; “snake”).
486
suffer from a shortage of liberties.
Next page: Failure
487
004 Problem (failure VI)
Black to kill.
488
489
1
>1
>1
> 2
> 2
> 3
○●○●○●○●○
> 1
●○●○●○●○●
> 2
> 1
> 4
3
> 3
Next page: Solution
490
004 Solution (failure VI)
chosen in the very beginning.
Black will not succeed by playing hane in the corner.
491
4
3
White’s diagonal move at 3 does not help here.
Black extends to 4, and there is the threat of the potential atari to White’s
three stones at the right arising.
492
5
6
White 5 gives atari to Black’s two stones inside her formation, but the
hane of Black 6 destroys her hopes for a second eye.
493
494
Lessons learned
(△) behind, if you will be unable to successfully occupy its central point
thereafter.
495
Consider carefully what might happen after your opponent occupied that
central point (□), probably spoiling your entire shape.
496
3 3
3
Descending to the first line might not serve to increase your liberties.
Your partial group might be as vulnerable as it has been before.
Being forced to defend that weak group might hinder you creating an eye
elsewhere.
497
have taken.
Next page: Failure
498
004 Problem (failure VII)
Black just played hane in the corner.
White to live.
499
500
1
>1
>1
> 2
> 2
> 3
> 1
○●○●○●○●○
> 2
●○●○●○●○●
> 1
> 4
3
> 3
Next page: Solution
501
004 Solution (failure VII)
B
A 3
White’s diagonal move of 3 creates a winding line of four points as her

potential eye space.
Black’s marked stones in the corner are not yet solidly connected ( ),
making it quite unlikely the Black will be able to occupy the point of A,
502
turning B into a false eye for White.
B 5
A 4
Black’s placement at 4 is immobilised by White 5. White is the owner of

the point of A, so B is a real eye.
503
6
Black’s solid connection at 6 starts a forcing sequence, but …
504
8 9
… eventually Black is unable to kill White’s group.
505
e
e
506
Lessons learned
2 2
Think twice before threatening from the outside to capture some opponent
stones!
507
You might force your opponent to turn their potential eye space into a
long, winding line of empty points (●; “snake”), which has sufficient
508
Do not forget about your own weaknesses ( ) that might hinder you from
proceeding as fast as necessary.
Next page: Failure
509
004 Problem (failure VIII)
White just connected solidly on the second line.
Black to kill.
510
511
1
>1
>1
> 2
> 2
> 3
> 1
> 2
○●○●○●○●○
> 1
●○●○●○●○●
> 4
3
> 3
Next page: Solution
512
004 Solution (failure VIII)
The placement of Black 2 occupies the central point of a dead eye shape.
513
3
White 3 descends at the right, trying to enlarge her potential eye space.
514
A 4
But Black 4 destroys White’s hopes for an eye at the right, so White is
dead.
Black must not play hane in the corner instead.
Playing White 5 at A will be fruitless, because she surrounds nothing more

than a dead eye shape. Of course, White will never die in gote.
515
516
Lessons learned
Before playing inside your own formation – reducing your potential eye
space by one point – consider carefully whether you will leave a dead eye
shape (△) behind, whose central point is still unoccupied.
517
Your opponent might not think twice before occupying that dead eye
shape’s central point (□).
Next page: Failure
518
004 Problem (failure IX)
Black just played hane in the corner.
White to live.
519
520
1
>1
>1
> 2
> 2
> 3
> 1
> 2
> 1
○●○●○●○●○
> 4
●○●○●○●○●
3
> 3
Next page: Solution
521
004 Solution (failure IX)
White’s descent to 5 occupies the point that Black should have taken
beforehand.
Black’s weaknesses in the corner ( ) prevent Black from successfully

connecting his single stone out.
522
8
7
9 6
Black might try the connection at 6.
But White 7 is an atari to three black stones that Black cannot connect, so
his further attempt with his move at 8 is fruitless.
White simply captures three black stones with 9, resulting in a sure eye for
her.
523
10
Black 10 recaptures, …
524
11
… but White 11 provides White with a living shape.
525
e e
526
Lessons learned
Only slightly reducing your opponent’s potential eye space (●) might not
be sufficient for success.
527
When reducing from the outside, do not leave a dead eye shape ( , △) for
your opponent behind, whose central point is still unoccupied.
528
) might fail, due to a shortage of liberties.
529
have taken.
530
Problem 005
White to kill.
531
532
○●○●○●○●○
1
●○●○●○●○●
> 1
> 3
> 1
> 1
2
> 2
> 3
> 3
> 5
Next page: Hints
533
Hints 005
Black’s potential eye space (●) is already divided into two sections, a
smaller one at the left and a larger one at the right.
534
Black’s partial groups are not yet solidly connected ( ), leaving cutting
points for White to exploit.
535
Black’s potential eye space at the right can be filled with a dead five-point
eye shape (△), whose central point is still unoccupied.
536
4 4 4 4
4
Black’s partial group at the right has four liberties.
One of these liberties is shared with his two other partial groups, so
Black’s five stones might be vulnerable to an attack.
537
3 3
3
Black’s partial groups at the left have only three liberties, and so are also
538
There is a line of false eyes ( , ✕) shown.
But its end point on the bottom is near Black’s stone there, so it might
become difficult for White to establish a permanent stone there.
539
!! !!
Black’s formation has holes (!!) at the bottom line, one at the left and one
at the right.
540
White’s position at the right is strong ( ), looking forward for friendly
stones on the ◇-points inside Black’s formation.
541
However, White must be on her guard, too.

Next page: Solution
542
Solution 005
The hane White 1 reduces Black’s potential eye space decisively.
Please note that Black’s partial group above is reduced to only three
liberties now.
White will succeed neither by playing in the centre of Black’s formation
543
on the second line, nor by jumping into Black’s formation on the first line,
nor by playing hane at the left.
A 2
Black blocks with 2, hoping to keep his potential eye space as large as
possible.
Black might try the descent of A at the left instead. This alternative move
is a bit trickier, because White has several options to go wrong thereafter.
544
3
4
White 3 occupies the central point of the four-point dead eye shape that
has been created by Black’s previous move.
Please note that Black’s partial group on top has only two liberties now.
Black descends to 4, creating an eye at the left – may be for the time being
only.
545
5 A
6
White cuts at 5, and this move is also an atari.
Black is unable to connect at A, hindered by White’s initially played stone

at , and so has to capture White’s single stone on the first line, with the
move at 6.
546
7 A B
White 7 on the outside is the second atari in this solution sequence, and it
is fatal.
547
548
Black descends to 2 at the left, securing an eye on the first line.
To be continued …
549
550
Problem 005 (variation)
White to kill.
551
552
1
> 1
> 3
> 1
> 1
2
○●○●○●○●○
> 2
●○●○●○●○●
> 3
> 3
> 5
Next page: Hints
553
Hints 005 (variation)
Black’s potential eye space (●) is already divided into two sections, a
smaller one at the left and a larger one at the right.
554
? ? ?
e ?
Black has established an eye (e) at the left.
White will have to stop Black from creating another eye in the ?-area at
the right.
555
Black’s potential eye space at the right can be filled with a dead four-point
eye shape (△), whose central point is still unoccupied.
556
3 3 3 3
3
Black’s partial group at the right has lost a liberty.
It has only three liberties now, and so is quite vulnerable to an attack.
557
In the centre of Black’s formation, there is a line of false eyes ( , ✕)
available.
558
!!
At the right, there is still a hole (!!) in Black’s encirclement.
559
White’s formation at the right ( ) is strong, significantly weakening
Black’s position in that area.
560
Next page: Solution
561
Solution 005 (variation)
White’s jump attachment of 3 on the first line aims at establishing the

marked line of false eyes.
White will succeed neither by extending on the first line, nor by playing in
the centre of Black’s formation on the second line.
562
A 5
4
Black throws in with 4.
Giving atari at A instead is fruitless, because White will simply connect at

4, securely leading her stones out.
However, Black is helpless as well after White captured with 5.
Black is unable to give atari at A, due to his shortage of liberties. Black is

left with only one eye at the left, which is not enough for life.
563
Next page: Failure
564
005 Problem (variation – failure I)
White just extended to the left on the first line.
Black to live.
565
566
1
> 1
> 3
> 1
> 1
2
> 2
○●○●○●○●○
> 3
●○●○●○●○●
> 3
> 5
Next page: Solution
567
005 Solution (variation – failure I)
Black 4 extends towards White’s two stones on the first line, occupying
the point that White should have taken just before.
568
6 5 A
B
White tries her best with 5, but now it is she who suffers from a shortage
of liberties.
Black connects at 6, giving atari to White’s single stone inside his

formation. White is hindered from connecting at A, due to Black B.
Capturing at A will provide Black with his second eye.
569
e
e
570
Lessons learned
Only slightly reducing your opponent’s potential eye space (●) might not
be sufficient for success.
571
? ?
e
If your opponent’s eye space is already divided into two sections, with
already one sure eye (e), you will have to destroy the second section (?)
completely.
572
573
3 3
Consider carefully the liberty count of your groups that are used for attack.
574
have taken.
Next page: Failure
575
005 Problem (variation – failure II)
White just played in the centre of Black’s formation.
Black to live.
576
577
1
> 1
> 3
> 1
> 1
2
>2
> 3
○●○●○●○●○
> 3
●○●○●○●○●
> 5
Next page: Solution
578
005 Solution (variation – failure II)
4
A
Black connects at 4. White will be unable to connect her just-played stone

to the outside.
Black 4 could also be played at A, resulting in a change in the order of

moves.
579
A
6 5 B
White 5 tries to connect her single stone out, but she is stopped by the atari
of Black 6.
White cannot connect at A, due to Black B.
Playing 5 at 6 will not help White either.
Black 6 can also be played at A, to the same effect.
580
e
e
581
White tries the descent of 5, but she will be stopped by her shortage of
liberties again.
582
6
Black simply throws in at 6, creating a snap-back.
583
7
White 7 captures Black’s single stone, but this is fruitless.
584
8
White’s three stones are recaptured by Black 8. Black has got two eyes,
and so is alive.
585
e
e
586
Lessons learned
Not every central point of every dead eye shape ( , △) is necessarily a

vital point of the problem that should be taken without thinking.
587
When threatening an opponent’s cutting point ( ), do not be surprised
when your opponent covers his real weakness by connecting solidly.
588
, ✕) …
589
… might suffer from a shortage of liberties.
590
have taken.
Next page: Failure
591
Black to live.
592
593
1
○●○●○●○●○
> 1
●○●○●○●○●
> 3
> 1
> 1
2
> 2
> 3
> 3
> 5
Next page: Solution
594
Black 2 secures an eye at the left on the first line.
Now, it is White who will be suffering from a shortage of liberties at the

right.
595
A 3
White tries her best with the hane of 3, but this move comes too late now.
Here, Black is not forced to answer at A.
Playing 3 at A will not change the matter.
596
4 6
A 5 B
Black 4 connects his troops.
This move could also be played at A, resulting in a change in the order of

moves.
White tries to connect her single stone out with the move at 5, but she is
frustrated by Black’s atari at 6.
597
e
e
598
3 A
White’s diagonal move at 3 hopes for a Black mistake by closing his

potential territory at the right, with a move at A.
599
4 6
A 5 B
But Black connects at the left, with a move at 4. Again, White has to carry
the burden of a shortage of liberties.
After the atari of Black 6, White is unable to connect at A, due to Black B.

Black will capture White’s single stone and live with two eyes.
600
e e
601
Lessons learned
Not every central point of every dead eye shape ( , △) is necessarily a

602
Playing inside your opponent’s formation – in order to destroy their
options for dividing the larger section of their potential eye space – might
not lead to success if your opponent still has sufficient means available to
establish a second eye in the smaller section.
603
? ? ?
e ? ?
If you cannot stop your opponent from establishing an eye (e) in one
section of their already divided potential eye space, you will have to
destroy the second section (?) completely.
604
When threatening an opponent’s cutting point ( ), do not assume that
your opponent will cover his weakness immediately.
605
, ✕) …
606
Next page: Failure
607
White just jumped on the first line.
Black to live.
608
609
1
>1
> 3
○●○●○●○●○
> 1
●○●○●○●○●
> 1
2
> 2
> 3
> 3
> 5
Next page: Solution
610
White’s initial move missed the vital point of the problem, so Black is able
to close the borders of his territory with the descent of 2, occupying this
vital point himself.
611
A 3
4
White 3 occupies the central point Black’s formation, aiming at cutting at

A.
Black 4 creates a winding line of points at the right, with sufficient

potential for partitioning. In addition, there is the option of the one-point
eye at the left.
612
6
5
White 5 and Black 6 are miai. Black gets two eyes for a living shape.
613
e
e
614
Lessons learned
!!
If you attack from the inside – threatening to connect out – do not be

surprised if your opponent simply closes a hole (!!) in their formation,
blocking your escape route.
615
Playing inside the larger part of your opponent’s already divided potential
eye space (●) might not lead to success if your opponent still has sufficient
means available to establish a second eye in the smaller section.
616
?
Remember that establishing a dead eye shape ( , △) inside your

opponent’s formation will be gote – in the overwhelming majority of
cases; and also that even a dead eye shape is equivalent to one eye.
Therefore, doing so makes sense only if your opponent does not have any
other options left for gaining another eye (?).
617
have taken.
Next page: Failure
618
White just played hane at the left.
Black to live.
619
620
1
>1
> 3
> 1
○●○●○●○●○
> 1
●○●○●○●○●
2
> 2
> 3
> 3
> 5
Next page: Solution
621
White has just destroyed Black’s option for an one-point eye at the left.
But there is the central point of the potential dead eye shape at the right
(△, 2) left, which is empty. Black occupies this vital point with 2, and is
alive.
622
4 3
White has no chance of destroying Black’s eye on the bottom right. White
3 and Black 4 are miai.
623
e e
e
624
Lessons learned
Destroying the smaller section of an already divided potential eye space

does not make sense if the remaining larger one alone still contains
sufficient options for partitioning.
625
Do not leave the central point of a dead eye shape (△) to be occupied by
your opponent.
626
Your opponent will not miss this vital shape point (□), …
627
… successfully partitioning their eye space (●).
628
Problem 006
Black to kill.
629
630
○●○●○●○●○
1
●○●○●○●○●
> 1
> 1
> 2
> 3
> 2
> 1
> 3
2
> 2
3
> 3
Next page: Hints
631
Hints 006
White’s maximum potential eye space (●) consists of seven empty points
in a row.
632
White’s partial groups are not yet solidly connected ( ), leaving several
633
3 3
2
White’s small groups at the top have only two, respectively three, liberties
– including shared ones – and so are very vulnerable to an attack.
634
In the top right, there is a line of false eyes ( , ✕) available for Black.
635
Black has strong formations on the outside ( ), significantly weakening
White’s position on the bottom.
636
!! !!
On the bottom line, White has two holes (!!) in her encirclement to defend.
637
638
There is a dead three-point eye shape (△) visible inside White’s
formation.
639
This diagram shows another one.
640
Black will have to consider whether one of the central points (□) of (at
least) these dead eye shapes may be the problem’s vital point.
Next page: Solution
641
Solution 006
Black 1 on the first line successfully reduces White’s potential eye space.
This stone has an escape route either to the right, or to the left, so it is safe
– at least for the time being.
Please note that Black’s move destroys two points of White’s maximum
642
eye space, not only one. The point of Black 1 and the point above this
stone cannot become White’s territory any longer.
Black will succeed neither by throwing in at the top, nor by playing in the
centre of White’s formation, nor by playing hane on the bottom.
White 2 closes her formation at the bottom.
Alternatively, White might try the move at A instead.
643
White’s potential eye space now consists of a line of five empty points (●);
but this will not be enough for two eyes, due to her massive weakness at
the top.
Black 3 occupies the vital point of White’s shape.
A white move at this point would provide White with a sure eye below,
and simultaneously have a healing effect on her weakness at the top.
644
Black must not throw-in on the top instead.
A
5
4
White tries her best with 4; this move and Black 5 are miai.
After Black’s throw-in, White is unable to connect her stone in atari with a
move at A, due to her shortage of liberties.
645
6
But capturing Black’s single stone with White 6 does not help White
either.
646
7
Black gives atari with 7; White’s potential eye at the top has become a
false one.
647
A 9 8
On the bottom line, there is also only a false eye available for White. If –
after Black 9 – she captures at A, Black will throw in at 9, killing White’s
group.
648
649
White 2 solidly connects at the top, maximising her potential eye space in
that area.
To be continued …
650
651
Black to kill.
652
653
1
> 1
> 1
> 2
> 3
> 2
> 1
> 3
2
○●○●○●○●○
> 2
●○●○●○●○●
3
> 3
Next page: Hints
654
Black’s single stone on the first line is not in danger of being captured,
because Black has strong positions on the outside.
655
White’s potential eye space consists of five empty points (●) in a row.
656
657
2 2 2
2
White’s four stones at the top have only two liberties, and so are very
However, we are in tsume-go here, so Black should consider very carefully

whether giving atari to these stones really might be a promising idea.
658
There is a dead three-point eye shape (△) visible inside White’s
formation.
659
And another, winding, one (△).
Next page: Solution
660
Black 3 gives atari to White’s four stones.
661
4
5
White connects at 4, being forced to reduce the size of her potential eye
space on her own.
Thereafter, Black 5 prevents a white move at the same point. The

maximum size of White’s potential eye space is four points now.
However, this maximum size can be accomplished in gote only, so there is
no chance for White to get a living shape.
662
6
White 6 captures Black’s two stones inside her formation. This move and
…
663
7
9 8
… Black 7 are miai.
On the bottom line, there will be no second eye for White.
664
Next page: Failure
665
Black just played a throw-in at the top.
White to live.
666
667
1
> 1
> 1
> 2
> 3
> 2
> 1
> 3
2
> 2
3
○●○●○●○●○
> 3
●○●○●○●○●
Next page: Solution
668
White 4 captures Black’s single stone that has been played too early.
This solid connection frees White from her shortage of liberties at the top,
and simultaneously, there is no longer the danger of getting only a false
eye in this area.
669
5
The atari of Black 5 makes White’s potential eye false, but this move and
White 6 are miai, so White gets a living shape.
670
e
671
Lessons learned
672
Before playing a throw-in, carefully consider your opponent’s potential
eye space (●) …
673
… after your just-played stone ( ) got captured by your opponent.
Next page: Failure
674
Black just played a throw-in at the top.
White to live.
675
676
1
○●○●○●○●○
> 1
●○●○●○●○●
> 1
> 2
> 3
> 2
> 1
> 3
2
> 2
3
> 3
Next page: Solution
677
White 2 captures Black’s single stone that has been played much too early.
This solid connection frees White from her shortage of liberties at the top.
678
4
3
Black 3 reduces White’s potential territory by two points, as in the correct

solution.
However, this will not be sufficient for killing White’s group, as there
remain two options for White for successfully creating two eyes.
679
5
Black cannot stop White from making two eyes, so White’s group is alive.
680
e
681
Lessons learned
682
eye space (●) …
683
… after your just-played stone ( ) got captured by your opponent.
Next page: Failure
684
White to live.
685
686
1
> 1
○●○●○●○●○
> 1
●○●○●○●○●
> 2
> 3
> 2
> 1
> 3
2
> 2
3
> 3
Next page: Solution
687
B A
White consolidates her shape with the solid connection of 2. Her decisive
weaknesses at the top has vanished with this move.
White might also consider descending to A, or playing at B, instead.
688
3 4
Black’s atari at 3 does not help.
White simply connects at 4.
689
5
7 8 6
The connection of Black 5 creates a formation of three stones in a row, but

White’s potential eye space is too large to become filled with a dead eye
shape of that size.
White descends to 6.
The hane of Black 7 reduces White’s territory a bit, but there remain five
points in a row, so White is alive.
690
e
691
White descends to 2, maximising her eye space successfully.
692
A
Black’s hane at 3 aims at reducing White’s potential eye space.
A throw-in at A instead will not benefit Black either.
693
4
White 4 connects solidly at the top, erasing her decisive weakness in that
area.
694
5 6
Black’s atari at 5 does not have a decisive effect.
White connects at 6.
695
8
A
7
Black 7 further reduces White’s territory at the bottom, but there is the
miai with White 8, so all of Black’s efforts ended in vain. White lives with
two eyes.
Of course, White must not hastily play at A on the bottom, unnecessarily

closing the hole in her encirclement. Black will answer by connecting at 8,
establishing a dead three-point eye shape inside White’s formation.
696
e
697
A
3
Black throws in at 3.
However – after Black’s mistaken initial move – it does not play a decisive
role that White is unable to connect at A here.
698
4
White captures at 4, in sente.
699
5
7
8
6
The atari of Black 5 turns White’s potential eye at the top into a false one,
but there is sufficient room in the bottom area left to manoeuvre for White.
The descent of White 6 turns her eye space into a line of five points, with
only one of these points yet occupied by Black.
Black cannot stop White from getting two eyes; Black 7 and White 8 are
miai.
700
e
701
White plays the diagonal move of 2 on the bottom line, also maximising
her eye space successfully.
702
4 3
Black’s throw-in at 3 does not work any longer.
White simply captures Black’s just-played stone with 4.
703
5
Black 5 and White 6 are miai, so White will get two eyes for sure.
704
e
705
Lessons learned
706
Attacking an opponent’s potential eye shape, which consists of a long line
of empty points (●), from the inside might fail, due to the sheer length of
that line alone.
707
have taken.
Next page: Failure
708
Black just played hane on the bottom.
White to live.
709
710
1
> 1
> 1
2>
> 3
> 2
○●○●○●○●○
> 1
●○●○●○●○●
> 3
2
> 2
3
> 3
Next page: Solution
711
White blocks with 2.
Compared to the correct solution, White has got an additional point for her
potential eye space (△). This effect will become decisive.
712
4 3
Black’s throw-in at 3 is answered by White 4. White’s eye space consists

of four empty points in a row now, so Black cannot stop White from
dividing it.
Playing at A instead will not help Black either.
713
e
714
Black hopes that his move at 3 might become the starting point of a dead
eye shape, but White’s potential eye space already has become too large
for the kill.
715
4
A
White maximises her exe space with the connection of 4.
In a real game, White might play at A immediately in order to not provide

Black with ko threats unnecessarily.
716
5 6
Black’s atari at 5 is fruitless.
After White’s connection at 6, her eye space contains of five points in a

row, with no option left for Black to stop White from dividing it into two.
717
e
718
Lessons learned
Just slightly reducing your opponent’s potential eye space (●) from the
outside might not be sufficient for success.
719
have taken.
720
Problem 007
Black to kill.
721
722
○●○●○●○●○
1
●○●○●○●○●
> 1
> 5
> 1
> 1
> 2
> 3
> 3
> 3
> 4
> 4
> 6
> 6
> 2
> 2
> 4
> 1
> 3
2
> 2
> 6
Next page: Hints
723
Hints 007
White’s maximum potential eye space is quite large, elongated and with
some bulky tendencies at the left.
724
725
2
White’s single stone at the left has two liberties only and could be easily
captured by Black.
We already know that it might not be the best idea to attack a stone like
this in the very beginning of the solution sequence.
726
3 3 3
White’s three stones in the centre of her formation have only three
liberties, and might become the primary target for attack.
727
There are two lines of false eyes ( , ✕) available for Black, which share
their endpoints on the first line.
728
At the left, there is a dead five-point eye shape (△) visible, whose central
point is still unoccupied.
729
Another dead eye shape, also consisting of empty points only.
730
You might want to think about the value of the marked central points (□)
of these dead eye shapes.
731
Black’s formation at the left is very strong ( ), weakening White’s
position nearby.
732
White’s -stone at the left is securely captured, so it might be only on the
board to bedazzle your mind.
733
Next page: Solution
734
Solution 007
Black 1 occupies the vital point of the problem, the shared end point of
two lines of false eyes. And – most important – White will be unable to
capture this stone.
Black will succeed neither by playing atari from below at the left, nor by
735
playing atari from above, nor by playing hane at the right, nor by jumping
into White’s formation from the left.
< Excursus – The centre of three stones >
2
B A
White 2 connects solidly at the left.
White might consider playing the diagonal move of A, or giving atari at

the left, with a move at B, instead.
736
3
Black 3 extends to the left, threatening to connect his pivotal stone out.
737
A 5
4
White descends to 4, blocking Black’s escape path to the left.
But thereafter, Black cuts at 5, utilizing White’s shortage of liberties at the

left. White is unable to give atari at A.
738
7 6
The descent of White 6 at the right comes too late now.
Black 7 gives atari at White’s six stones at the left; Black simply is one
step ahead in this partial semeai.
739
740
White’s diagonal move at 2 aims at enlarging her potential eye space, as

well as at partitioning it.
741
3
White’s just-played stone will not serve to divide her potential eye space,
because Black is able to save his pivotal stone with the atari at 3.
742
4
5
White’s counter-atari at 4 does not change the matter.
Black simply connects at 5, leaving a false eye at the left behind.
743
7 6
White does not have enough room left on the first line for building a living
shape. White 6 and Black 7 are miai. White has only one eye, and so is
dead.
744
745
White’s atari of 2 at the left does not have any real effect on the problem’s
solution.
746
3
Black simply captures with 3.
747
4
This time, White plays her diagonal move from the left, at 4.
748
A 5
Black 5 cuts again, and White is hindered from giving atari at A.
749
7
6
Descending with White 6 at the right is too slow.
White might try connecting at 7 instead, but will end in vain, too.
Black 7 gives atari at the left, reaching a snap-back there. At the bottom
right, White has only one eye, and so is dead.
750
751
Variation for White 6 (White 2 (II))
6
A
White 6 solidly connects at the left, aiming at a ko fight. But Black will
not capture at A now.
752
7
Black plays hane at 7 on the other side instead.
753
A
B 8 9
White’s descent at 8 is fruitless, due to Black 9.
White is hindered from giving atari at A, or at B, and so is dead without

any eyes.
754
Next page: Failure
755
Black just played atari from below.
White to live.
756
757
1
○●○●○●○●○
> 1
●○●○●○●○●
> 5
> 1
> 1
> 2
> 3
> 3
> 3
> 4
> 4
> 6
> 6
> 2
> 2
> 4
> 1
> 3
2
> 2
> 6
Next page: Solution
758
White’s jump to 2 occupies the vital point of the problem that Black
should have taken beforehand.
759
3
Black 3 prevents an easy division of White’s potential eye space.
760
4
But White 4 here will do this job successfully.
761
6 5
7
Black tries his best with giving atari at 5 and capturing with 7.
Black might consider capturing with 5 at 6 instead.
762
8
B A
The atari of White 8 immobilises Black’s two single stones.
Black is unable to connect at A, due to White B.
Capturing at A will provide White with a living shape.
763
e
e
764
In a real game, Black will capture at the left, with 5 here.
765
6
White 6 closes the borders of her formation.
766
8 7
The remaining space at the right is sufficient for another eye.
767
e e
768
Lessons learned
Think twice before giving atari to a single opponent stone.
Especially if your target is positioned on the outskirts of your opponent’s

formation.
769
Only slightly reducing your opponent’s potential eye space (●) from the
770
have taken.
Next page: Failure
771
Black just played atari from above.
White to live.
772
773
1
>1
> 5
○●○●○●○●○
> 1
●○●○●○●○●
> 1
> 2
> 3
> 3
> 3
> 4
> 4
> 6
> 6
> 2
> 2
> 4
> 1
> 3
2
> 2
> 6
Next page: Solution
774
White 2 gives counter-atari.
775
3
Black is forced to capture at 3.
776
B 4 A
White descends to 4, securing sufficient eye space for the life of her group.
There are five unoccupied points in a row left, giving Black no options to
prevent its division.
Be warned not to thoughtlessly play at A instead.
Black will give atari at 4, forcing you into a uncalled-for ko fight for the
life of your group, starting with White B.
777
8 7 6 5
Black’s hane at 5 reduces that empty line to four points, but – after
White’s block at 6 – even this size is sufficient for creating a living shape.
778
e
e
779
Lessons learned

formation.
780
Next page: Failure
781
White to live.
782
783
1
>1
> 5
> 1
○●○●○●○●○
> 1
●○●○●○●○●
> 2
> 3
> 3
> 3
> 4
> 4
> 6
> 6
> 2
> 2
> 4
> 1
> 3
2
> 2
> 6
Next page: Solution
784
A
D C 2 B
The diagonal move of White 2 is the safety-first measure, immediately

securing eyes at A and at B.
White might consider jumping to C, or playing the diagonal move of D at

the left, instead.
785
However, White must not descend at the left, in an attempt to maximise
her potential eye space, instead.
3 4
5
Black captures White’s single stone at the left with 3 and 5.
786
A 6
White must be on her guard and connect solidly at 6.
If she – unnecessarily – closes her territory at the right instead, this will
lead to an uncalled-for ko for the life of her group after Black 6, White A.
787
e
e
788
White occupies the vital point of the problem. This will result in a change
in the order of moves to what we have seen just before.
789
B
3 A C
Black 3 gives atari from below, hoping for a white mistake.
Black might consider attaching at A, or cutting at B in the centre, or

pushing at C from the right, instead, but neither will succeed.
790
A
4 B
White must be on her guard and choose the restrained move of 4,

immediately securing eyes at A and at B.
White will succeed neither by connecting her stone that is in atari, nor by
immediately blocking at the right.
791
5
Black captures at 5.
792
6
8 7
White blocks at 6 and at 8, ending with two one-point eyes.
793
e
e
794
Variation for Black 3 (I) (White 2 (I))
Black 3 denies White the option of easily dividing her eye space, by
playing at the same point, but this move will end disadvantageous for
Black.
795
4
White is able to maximise her territory by descending to 4.
796
6 5
7
Black 5 and 7 aim at establishing a dead eye shape inside White’s

formation, but in vain.
797
8
White 8 gives atari, securing two eyes for her group.
798
9 10
Connecting at Black 9 is fruitless. White captures four black stones with

10.
799
12 11
Thereafter, Black 11 and White 12 are miai for the life of White’s group.
White has got more territory than “usual”.
800
e
e e
801
Variation for Black 3 (II) (White 2 (I))
Black’s cut at 3 does not really threaten White’s formation.
802
4
White 4 connects solidly at the left, immobilising Black’s just-played

stone.
803
6 5
Black 5 at the right and White 6 at the left are miai.
804
C
8 A 7 B
Black’s extension to 7 forces White to capture at 8, but Black cannot stop

White from getting two eyes.
Black cannot further approach at A, due to White B, so C is a real eye.
805
e e
806
Variation for Black 3 (III) (White 2 (I))
Black 3 plays once more at the right, again slightly reducing White’s
potential eye space in that area.
807
4
White 4 connects solidly in the centre, consolidating her formation.
808
6
5
Black 5 and White 6 are miai, …
809
8 7
… as are Black 7 and White 8.
810
e
e
811
The diagonal move of White 2 defends her cutting point at the left.
812
3
Black 3 is one of several options that are available for Black here.
813
4
White 4 takes a liberty of Black’s intruder.
814
7 B 6
5 A 8
Black’s descent at 5 enables Black to capture one of White’s stones,

aiming at White’s shortage of liberties at the left.
White 6 prepares for the capture of Black’s single stone inside her
formation.
After Black’s throw-in at 7, White is hindered from either connecting at A

(Black will capture with B), or capturing at B (Black A will make White’s
815
potential eye false), and so has to capture at the right, with 8.
Black 9 at the left and …
816
A
B 10
… White 10 at the right are miai.
Black cannot further approach at A, so B is a real eye.
817
e e
818
Lessons learned
819
When reducing from the outside, do not leave a dead eye shape (△) for
your opponent behind, whose central point is still unoccupied.
820
Be aware that your opponent will take this vital shape point (□), turning
his eye space into an already divided line of empty points (●).
821
have taken.
Next page: Failure
822
White just connected solidly at the left.
Black to kill.
823
824
1
> 1
> 5
> 1
> 1
2>
> 3
> 3
> 3
○●○●○●○●○
> 4
●○●○●○●○●
> 4
> 6
> 6
> 2
> 2
> 4
> 1
> 3
2
> 2
> 6
Next page: Solution
825
Black 5 cuts in the centre of White’s formation.
826
6
White 6 hopes to partition her potential eye space, but in vain.
827
A 7
Black extends to 7 at the right, and Black’s cutting stone prevents White
from blocking at A.
828
8
Capturing Black’s troublemaker with 8 is fruitless.
829
9
Black pushes another time at 9, and White is reduced to only one eye.
830
831
Lessons learned
Think twice before connecting a single stone ( ) that is in atari.
Especially if your potential sacrifice is positioned on the outskirts of your

formation.
832
!!
Closing a hole (!!) in your formation that is located on the first line will
take one of your liberties.
833
When consolidating the borders of your formation, consider carefully
whether you might leave a dead eye shape inside behind, whose central
834
Your group will be in great danger, if this central point (□) of a dead eye
shape is also a cutting point inside your formation ( ).
Next page: Failure
835
White just blocked at the right.
Black to kill.
836
837
1
> 1
> 5
> 1
> 1
2>
> 3
> 3
> 3
> 4
○●○●○●○●○
> 4
●○●○●○●○●
> 6
> 6
> 2
> 2
> 4
> 1
> 3
2
> 2
> 6
Next page: Solution
838
Black’s attachment at 5 attacks White’s single stone on the first line and
aims at White’s shortage of liberties at both sides.
839
7 6
A
White tries her best by solidly connecting at 6, also giving counter-atari to

Black’s just-played stone.
White might consider connecting at 7, or immediately giving counter-atari

at A, instead.
840
8
9
White has only on eye, and so is dead.
841
842
White 6 connects at the left.
843
B 7
A
Black cuts at 7, occupying the miai point.
844
8
Thereafter, capturing at 8, freeing White from her shortage of liberties at

the right, will be fruitless.
845
9
Black 9 completes a dead eye shape inside White’s formation.
846
847
White 6 gives counter-atari to the first line.
848
A 7 8
B
Black will answer with a counter-atari of his own, by playing at 7.
Thereafter, capturing at 8 will be of no use for White.
Connecting at A is not a valid option either.
Black will capture at B, and White is hindered by her massive shortage of

liberties from giving double-atari at 8.
849
9
Black captures at 9, and White is left with a lot of false eyes, but only one
real one.
850
851
Lessons learned
Blocking on the first line ( ) will take a liberty of your respective group.
852
3 3 3
3 3 3 3
3 3
Remember that groups that have only three liberties are quite vulnerable to
an attack.
Especially if some of their liberties are shared.
853
Before closing a hole in your formation, carefully consider whether you
are leaving only a dead eye shape behind, whose central point is still open
for your opponent.
854
have taken.
Next page: Failure
855
Black to kill.
856
857
1
> 1
> 5
> 1
> 1
> 2
> 3
> 3
> 3
> 4
> 4
> 6
> 6
> 2
○●○●○●○●○
> 2
●○●○●○●○●
> 4
> 1
> 3
2
> 2
> 6
Next page: Solution
858
Black 3 occupies the vital point of the problem.
859
4
A
White tries to play 4 on top of Black’s intruder.
Playing the diagonal move of A instead will not help either.
860
5
Black extends to 5, ruining White’s potential eye shape.
861
B C
A 7 6
White 6 blocks at the right.
Please note that White cannot play at 7 instead. Black will give atari at A,
and White is unable to save her stones with a move at B, due to Black C.
Black 7 stops White from occupying this point and dividing her eye space
successfully.
862
8
A 9
White 8 connects solidly, taking a liberty of Black’s three stones.
If White plays at 9 instead, securing an eye at the right, Black will give
atari at A and White cannot connect, due to her shortage of liberties.
Black 9 pushes further at the right, reducing White’s group to only one
eye.
863
864
White’s diagonal move of 4 at the right does not stop Black’s actions at the
left.
865
5 A
B
Black 5 cuts at the left. White is hindered from giving atari at A and B.
866
6
7
Connecting solidly at 6 is too slow.
Black 7 gives atari to White’s two stones at the left, capturing them. At the
right, White has only one eye.
867
868
Lessons learned
Think twice before saving a single stone ( ) – unforced by your opponent

– that might have become easily captured.
Especially if your potential sacrifice is positioned on the outskirts of your

formation.
869
When closing a hole in your formation, consider carefully whether you
leave a dead eye shape (△) inside behind, whose central point is still
unoccupied.
870
Do not let your cutting points undefended.
871
Do not let your opponent occupy the shared end point of two lines of false
eyes ( , ✕).
872
Connecting groups that are diagonally adjacent to each other might fail,
873
3 3 3
3
3
Partial groups that have only three liberties – but one of which is shared –
are extremely vulnerable to an attack.
874
have taken.
Next page: Failure
875
Black just jumped into White’s formation from the left.
White to live.
876
877
1
> 1
> 5
> 1
> 1
> 2
> 3
> 3
> 3
> 4
> 4
> 6
> 6
2>
2>
> 4
○●○●○●○●○
> 1
●○●○●○●○●
> 3
2
> 2
> 6
Next page: Solution
878
White jumps to 2, securing a large amount of her potential eye space.
Please note that this move occupies the vital point of the problem that
Black should have taken beforehand.
879
A 3
4 5
Black gives atari from above, with 3.
In a real game, Black will capture White’s single stone at the left by
cutting at A instead.
White descends to 4 at the left, closing the borders of her territory and also
giving counter-atari.
Black 5 captures White’s single stone on the first line, aiming at creating a
880
dead eye shape inside White’s formation.
A 6
B
White 6 immobilises Black’s intruders. Black is hindered from giving atari

at A, due to Black B.
Connecting at B is not a valid option for Black, due to the long line of
empty points at the right that is waiting for White to turn into her territory.
881
10
9 8 7
The hane of Black 7 reduces White’s territory a bit, and Black 9 forces
White to connect at 10. But Black cannot hinder White from getting a
living shape.
882
e e
883
Black 3 captures White’s single stone at the left.
884
4
5
White 4 solidifies the borders of her formation in sente.
Black 5 is forced.
885
D
C A B 6
White descends to 6 at the right, maximising her eye space.
If White omits this move, Black will attack at A, and White is unable to
divide her potential eye space with a move at C, due to her shortage of
liberties at the left.
Giving atari at B will be of no use. Black kills White with the sequence
Black C, White D, Black 6.
886
e
e
887
Lessons learned
Jumping only slightly into your opponent’s formation might not be

sufficient to reduce their potential eye space (●) decisively.
888
Do not let your opponent defend a central cutting point ( ) inside their
formation.
889
Trying to establish a dead eye shape ( , △) inside your opponent’s
formation is fruitless, …
890
… if their potential eye space is at least two points (●) larger than your
desired shape ( , △).
891
have taken.
892
Problem 008
Black to kill.
893
894
○●○●○●○●○
1
●○●○●○●○●
> 1
> 1
2
> 2
Next page: Hints
895
Hints 008
White’s maximum potential eye space consists of a winding line of points

(●), with several options for partitioning.
896
White’s partial groups are not yet solidly connected to each other ( ),
leaving cutting points for Black to exploit.
897
Black’s very strong formation at the right ( ) supports the marked line of
false eyes ( , ✕).
898
3
3
3 3
White’s four stones at the left have only three liberties, and so are quite
899
4 4
4 4
White’s stones in the centre of her formation have four liberties, and could
easily capture Black’s single -stone.
Therefore, it is unlikely that these four stones will become the primary
target for attack.
900
2
White’s single stone at the right has only two liberties.
However, in tsume-go, you should think twice before giving atari to a

single opponent stone, especially in the beginning.
901
At the left, there is a dead three-point eye shape (△) visible, whose central
902
Another dead eye shape (△), also empty, on the bottom line.
903
Thinking about the central points of these dead eye shapes (□) might lead
you to the vital point of the problem.
Next page: Solution
904
Solution 008
Black 1 occupies the central point on the first line, creating a new line of
false eyes (✕, Black 1). This line of false eyes is strongly supported by
White’s potential shortage of liberties at the left.
Black will succeed neither by playing atari from below at the right, nor by
905
pushing from above.
White captures at 2 for a sure eye at the right.
She might try to close the borders of her potential eye space at the left,
with a move at A, instead.
906
4 5
3
A
Black 3 brings the aforementioned line of false eyes to life.
White 4 blocks Black’s escape, but then the atari of Black 5 creates a snap-
back. Capturing at A is useless for White, because Black will recapture at
3.
White has only one eye at the right, and so is dead.
907
908
White 2 closes the hole in her encirclement at the top.
To be continued …
909
910
Black to kill.
911
1
> 1
> 1
2
○●○●○●○●○
> 2
●○●○●○●○●
Next page: Hints
912
White’s maximum potential eye space consists of a winding line of points

(●), with several options for partitioning.
913
White’s partial groups are not yet solidly connected to each other ( ),
leaving cutting points for Black to exploit.
914
Black’s very strong formation at the right ( ) supports the marked line of
915
3 3
3
3 3
White’s four stones at the left have only three liberties, and so are quite
916
3 3
3 3
White’s stones in the centre of her formation have only three liberties as
well, but could easily capture Black’s single -stone.
Therefore, it is unlikely that these four stones will become the primary
target for attack.
917
2
White’s single stone at the right has only two liberties.
However, in tsume-go, you should think twice before giving atari to a

single opponent stone, especially in the beginning.
918
At the left, there is a dead three-point eye shape ( , △) visible, whose
central point is still unoccupied.
919
Another dead eye shape ( , △) on the bottom line, but whose central
point is already occupied by Black.
Next page: Solution
920
3
A
Black’s cut at 3 addresses the potential snap-back at the left, starting with
Black A.
921
B
A 4 C
White descends to 4, frustrating Black’s plan at the left.
She is unable to divide her eye space instead, with a move at A, due to her
shortage of liberties at the left.
Connecting solidly at B will not benefit White either. Black will answer at
C, making her potential eye at the right false, as is shown below.
922
6
5
Black 5 gives atari, sacrificing two stones, instead of only one.
He cannot let White capture his single stone here, because this would
provide White with two eyes.
Connecting solidly at 6, capturing Black’s two stones, does not really help
White.
923
8 7 9
Black 7 gives atari from below at the right.
White captures at 8, but Black extends to 9, securely connecting to the

right.
White’s potential eye in this area has been turned into a false one. White
has only one eye at the left, and so is dead.
924
Next page: Failure
925
Black just played atari from below.
White to live.
926
927
1
○●○●○●○●○
> 1
●○●○●○●○●
> 1
2
> 2
Next page: Solution
928
White captures at 2.
929
3
Black extends to 3, securely connecting to his allies at the right, making

White’s potential eye in that area false ( , ✕).
However, as we will see soon, Black’s procedure at the right was initiated
too early. It will not work without the preparatory move inside White’s
formation at the left.
930
4
White 4 closes the hole in the top left of her formation, simultaneously
maximising her eye space.
Please note that White’s last move turned her potential eye space into a
line of four empty points (●; “snake”). Black will have no chance any
more to prevent its partitioning.
931
5
Black 5, taking a libery from White’s partial group at the left, does not
work any longer, due to the missing black stone at A.
932
B
A 6 C
White 6 divides her eye space successfully. This move could also be
played at A.
White is the owner of the point of B, so C is a real eye.
933
e
e
934
Lessons learned
Consider carefully whether is might be possible to attack your object of

desire later, but to the same effect.
935
Do not be surprised if your opponent actually captures one of your stones (
) that is in atari.
Especially if this capture will serve to consolidate the borders of their

formation.
936
Next page: Failure
937
Black just pushed from above at the left.
White to live.
938
939
1
> 1
○●○●○●○●○
> 1
●○●○●○●○●
2
> 2
Next page: Solution
940
White blocks at 2, solidifying the borders of her formation.
Please note that this move turns White’s potential eye space into a winding
line that consists of five points (●).
941
4 3
Black’s atari 3 from below reduces the size of this line to three empty
points. But Black will end in gote at the right.
White captures at 4, simultaneously giving atari to Black’s just-played

stone.
942
A
6 B 5
Black extends to 5 in order to turn White’s potential eye at A into a false

one.
White, however, occupies the miai point of 6, gaining a living shape.

White is the owner of the point A, so B is a real eye.
943
e e
944
Lessons learned
945
Problem 009
White to live.
946
947
○●○●○●○●○
1
●○●○●○●○●
> 1
7
> 7
10
> 10
Next page: Hints
948
Hints 009
White’s potential eye space seems to consist of only one point (●), solidly
surrounded, and so equivalent to one sure eye.
Therefore, we will have to answer the question where White’s second eye
should come from.
949
Black’s partial groups on the lower edge, which are part of the enclosure
of White’s large group above, are not yet solidly connected ( ), leaving
cutting points for White to exploit.
950
It is very likely that White will have to capture either Black’s two -
stones at the left, …
951
… or Black’s four -stones in the centre.
952
3 3 3 3
2
2
2
Black’s partial groups at the left have only two liberties, Black’s four-
stone group in the centre has only three liberties.
This implies that these groups are quite vulnerable to an attack.
953
2
However, White’s cutting stone has also only two liberties, and is also
Utilising this cutting stone effectively is White’s only hope, and will
become the clue to the correct solution.
Next page: Solution
954
Solution 009
1
A
White cuts at the right, with her move at 1, exploiting Black’s sole and
only weakness.
White could also start with the atari at A in the corner, resulting in a
change in the order of moves.
955
2
4 3
Black has no choice but to give atari from above, with the move at 2 in
order to save his just-cut stones.
The extension to 3 turns White’s single cutting stone into a two-stone

group with three liberties.
White descends to 4, reducing the liberties of White’s cutting stones to

only two again.
956
5
6
It is important for White to play the atari of 5 now.
Black connects solidly at 6, to stop White from capturing his two stones at
the left for her second eye.
Please note that Black’s four stones at the left have only two liberties.
957
7
White cannot exploit Black’s weakness at the left immediately.
She has to attack Black’s cut-off group with the hane of 7. This move
reduces the liberty count of Black’s group at the right to only two.
White must not play atari at the left instead.
958
8
10 9 A
Black does not want to let White capture his stones, therefore he attacks
White’s two stones at the right with 8 and 10.
Please note that the exchange of Black 8 for White 9 is not mandatory.
Black could even do without.
Black might try playing the atari of 10 at A.
959
13 11 12
Now, there are three black groups on the board that have only two
liberties. White 11 is a double-atari.
Black will save his cut-off stones at the right by capturing White’s four
stones, with the move at 12.
White 13 captures Black’s four stones in the corner for her second eye.
960
e
961
10
Black should refrain from thoughtlessly giving atari from the outside, with
the move at 10.
962
B
A 11
White saves her stones by extending to 11, and Black is caught by

surprise.
He can neither give atari at A nor at B, due to the shortage of liberties of

his own groups. Black’s hopes for a temporary seki on the bottom
(White’s cut-off group above has only one eye) will vanish soon.
963
13
12
Black’s solid connection at 12 is fruitless; this move is too slow.
White has enough liberties to enable her to give atari at 13. White will
capture Black’s six stones, getting a living shape.
964
e
e
965
White can also start with the atari of 1 at the left.
966
2
Black connects at 2, as in the main line of the solution.
White, however, must stop at the left just now!
As in the main line of the solution sequence, she will be caught by

surprise, if she follows her instincts and continues with giving atari.
967
4 3
6 5 A
8 7
White cuts at 3, reverting to the main line of the solution.
As already mentioned above, there is no need for Black to insert the atari
of A. But, on the other hand, it will do no harm.
968
9
White 9 is the same double-atari as in the main line.
969
11 10
Black will save his stones at the right, by capturing at 10.
White 11 captures Black’s four stones at the left for the life of her group.
970
e
Next page: Failure
971
009 Problem (failure)
White just played atari at the left.
Black to kill.
972
973
1
> 1
7
○●○●○●○●○
> 7
●○●○●○●○●
10
> 10
Next page: Solution
974
009 Solution (failure)
Black 8 solidly connects his endangered stones at the left.
975
9
White hane at 9 comes too late now.
976
10
11 12
Black gives atari from the outside, with his moves at 10 and 12.
977
n
n
13
Connecting at 13 does not benefit White here. She has lost a decisive
liberty of the just-connected group by her uncalled-for second atari at the
left.
Of course, there is a seki in the centre of the problem, but this is only a
temporary one. White’s large group above has only one eye, and will be
taken off the board by Black, resolving the temporary seki at the bottom.
978
979
Lessons learned
Think twice before giving atari!
980
Be aware that your opponent will not think twice before saving important
stones that are needed for attack.
981
3
3
3
Playing a descent to the first line will not serve to increase the liberty
count of your group.
< Excursus – Troubles with descending towards the edge >
982
Connecting stones that are arranged on a zigzag line ( , ✕) might fail,
983
Problem 010
Black to kill.
984
985
○●○●○●○●○
1
●○●○●○●○●
> 1
> 2
> 2
> 1
> 2
> 4
> 13
> 3
2
> 2
4
> 4
5
Next page: Hints
986
Hints 010
White’s maximum potential eye space (●) is quite large, but has strong
bulky tendencies.
987
White’s cutting point at the left is already occupied by a black stone.
988
!! !!
There are two holes (!!) in White’s encirclement, one at the left and one at
the right.
989
2
2
Black’s two stones inside White’s formation have two liberties only, and
so are in imminent danger of being captured quite easily.
990
3 3 3
3 3
However, White’s partial groups at the right are also quite vulnerable to an
attack.
Both groups have three liberties only, one of which is shared.
991
4 4
4
4
White’s partial group at the left has four liberties, and so is not likely to
become the primary target for attack.
Black’s formation at the left ( ) is strong, so there are no options for

White to increase the liberty count of her group in that area.
992
Black’s two stones are part of a dead five-point eye shape ( , △), whose
central point is already occupied by Black.
993
At the right, there is another dead five-point eye shape (△) visible that is
entirely unoccupied.
994
Black’s formation at the right ( ) is strong, significantly weakening
White’s formation nearby.
995
Nevertheless, Black must pay attention in this area.

Next page: Solution
996
Solution 010
Black cuts at 1, exploiting White’s main weakness.
Please note that both white groups at the right and both black groups inside
White’s formation have only two liberties each.
Black will succeed neither by playing a turning move inside White’s
997
formation, nor by playing hane at the right.
A 2
White 2 gives atari to Black’s single stone at the right.
White might consider giving atari to the left, with a move at A, instead.
998
A 4 3
Black cannot let White capture his single stone, otherwise White would get
a living shape quite easily. Therefore, he extends to 3, following the
proverb of sacrificing two stones instead of only one.
White 4 is another atari, immobilising Black’s two stones at the right.

Please note that White was unable to increase the liberty count of her
groups.
999
To be continued …
White might consider giving atari at the left, with a move at A, instead.
1000
White 4 gives atari to Black’s two stones at the left.
To be continued …
1001
1002
White 2 gives atari to Black’s two stones inside her formation.
1003
3
4 A
Black 3 is a counter-atari, and White captures with 4.
White might descend to A instead, but this will make no difference.
Black might do without this forcing exchange – shown in the books –

which does not have any effect on the following sequence.
1004
6
7 5
Black’s hane of 5 captures White’s two stones at the right.
At the left, White is unable to build another eye. White 6 and Black 7 are
miai. White is left with only one eye, and so is dead.
1005
Next page: Follow-up
1006
Problem 010 (follow-up)
Black to kill.
< Go to the next variation >
1007
1008
1
> 1
> 2
> 2
> 1
> 2
> 4
> 13
> 3
2
> 2
4
> 4
○●○●○●○●○
5
●○●○●○●○●
Next page: Hints
1009
Hints 010 (follow-up)
sections.
1010
e
Black’s two stones at the right cannot escape; capturing them will result in
a sure eye (e) for White.
1011
?
? ?
? ? ?
Black will have to stop White from getting another eye in the ?-area at the
left.
1012
2 2 2
2 2 2
2
White’s partial group at the right and in the centre have only two liberties.
We already know that giving atari to such kind of stones might be not the
best idea to start with.
1013
2
2
Black’s two stones at the left have only two liberties as well.
However, this is the only remaing pair of stones that Black could try to
work with.
1014
4 4
4
4
White’s four stones on the left still have four liberties.
1015
Black’s formation at the left ( ) is strong, looking forward to giving
support to their enclosed allies.
Next page: Solution
1016
Solution 010 (follow-up)
A
5
Black’s hane at 5 utilises the fact that White is hindered from attacking
Black’s two stones from the right.
The point of A is taboo for White as long as Black’s two -stones are on
the board.
1017
8
6 7
White has no other choice than to block Black’s connection to the left by
playing the atari at 6.
Black connects solidly at 7, threatening to cut at 8, capturing White’s just-

played stone.
White’s connection with 8 on the second line is mandatory.
1018
9
A
B
The centre of the problem is a temporary seki now. Neither side is able to
occupy any of the points A and B.
To resolve this temporary seki, either Black has to capture White’s partial
group at the left, or White has to overcome her shortage of liberties at the
right that stops her from approaching Black’s four stones from this side.
Black 9 starts occupying the liberties of White’s group at the left.
1019
A
10
White 10 takes Black’s two troublemakers at the right off the board, but
she will not succeed with giving atari at A thereafter.
1020
13
12
11
Black 11 takes White’s penultimate liberty, so White’s atari at 12 comes

one step too late.
Black 13 takes White’s group at the left off the board. White’s right-hand
group has only one eye, and so is dead.
1021
1022
Black to kill.
1023
1024
1
> 1
> 2
> 2
> 1
> 2
> 4
> 13
> 3
2
> 2
4
○●○●○●○●○
> 4
●○●○●○●○●
5
Next page: Hints
1025
White’s potential eye space consists of a long winding line of points (●;
“snake”).
1026
e
Black’s two stones at the left cannot escape; capturing them will result in a
sure eye (e) for White.
1027
?
? ? ?
Black will have to stop White from getting another eye in the ?-area at the
right.
1028
White’s partial groups are not yet solidly connected ( ), leaving
weaknesses for Black to exploit.
1029
2 2 2
2 2 2
White’s partial groups at the left have two liberties only.
1030
2
2
Black’s cutting stones at the right have only two liberties as well.
It’s Black’s turn, so Black will have no problems with winning this partial
semeai at the utmost right, saving his two stones. Nevertheless, he should
not continue without thinking.
Next page: Solution
1031
C
5 B A
The turning move of Black 5 gives atari to White’s four stones above.
Contrary to the main line of the solution sequence, Black cannot do

without this forcing move here.
Hastily giving atari at the right, with a move at A, would result in a white
1032
counter-atari at 5, forcing Black to capture at B. Thereafter, White C
would divide her eye space at the left, bringing the main part of her troops
to life.
White must capture two of Black’s stones with 6.
1033
8
9 7
The hane of Black 7 immobilises White’s two stones at the right.
At the left, White 8 and Black 9 are miai, so White cannot get more than a
false eye there.
One eye in the centre of her position is not sufficient for life.
1034
Next page: Failure
1035
Black just played a turning move on the second line.
White to live.
1036
1037
1
○●○●○●○●○
> 1
●○●○●○●○●
> 2
> 2
> 1
> 2
> 4
> 13
> 3
2
> 2
4
> 4
5
Next page: Solution
1038
White blocks with 2, immobilising Black’s three stones at the left.
Simultaneously, this move secures sufficient eye space at the right for at
least one additional eye.
White will succeed neither by jumping down to the first line, nor by
1039
playing a diagonal move at the right.
Black tries his best with a desperate measure, the placement of 3 at the
first line.
1040
6
4 B 5 A
Black is unable to connect his just-played stone out. The hane of Black 5 is
frustrated by White’s solid connection at 6.
The points of A and B are miai now. White will get a living shape by
capturing Black’s single stone.
1041
e
e
1042
Lessons learned
Only threatening an opponent’s cutting point ( ) from the inside might

not lead to success.
1043
If your move does not contain a second threat, your opponent might still
have sufficient options left for dividing their potential eye space (●).
1044
Next page: Failure
1045
White just jumped down to the first line.
Black to kill.
1046
1047
1
> 1
○●○●○●○●○
> 2
●○●○●○●○●
> 2
> 1
> 2
> 4
> 13
> 3
2
> 2
4
> 4
5
Next page: Solution
1048
Black’s hane at 3 attacks White’s cutting point ( ) at the right.
1049
4 5
Black’s three stones form a dead eye shape ( ) inside White’s formation,
so she has to try maximising her potential eye space, by playing at 4.
Black calmly connects at 5, addressing White’s shortage of liberties at the

right.
1050
B
6 A
White 6 occupies a liberty of Black’s three stones.
Connecting at A instead is fruitless.
White will have no answer to Black’s atari at B.
1051
A
B 7
Black’s final atari at 7 is fatal.
Connecting at A, providing her right-hand group with two liberties, would

result in White dying in gote.
Her group at the left has only one internal liberty, at B, so there will be no
seki.
1052
1053
Lessons learned
Consider carefully whether you really defended a vital cutting point inside
your formation ( ) in only one move.
1054
2 2 2
3 3
Remember that groups that have only three (or fewer) liberties, are quite
Especially if some of these liberties are shared.
1055
Consider carefully whether your potential eye space might be already
filled by a dead eye shape ( , △).
Next page: Failure
1056
White just played a diagonal move at the right.
Black to kill.
1057
1058
1
>1
> 2
○●○●○●○●○
> 2
●○●○●○●○●
> 1
> 2
> 4
> 13
> 3
2
> 2
4
> 4
5
Next page: Solution
1059
A
B 3
Black’s diagonal move at 3 threatens a snap-back at A, and also hinders

White from easily occupying the point of B on the bottom line.
1060
4
White connection at 4 is mandatory.
1061
A
5
Black’s hane at 5 reduces White’s right-hand group to only two liberties,

stopping her from giving atari at A.
1062
8 6 9 7
White 6 starts with approaching Black’s troublemakers inside her

formation from the left.
But Black calmly connects at 7, and will be one step ahead in the semeai.
1063
1064
Lessons learned
When defending a cutting point of your own ( ), …
1065
… do not forget about the remaining lines of false eyes ( , ✕).
1066
2 2 2
3 3
3
Especially if some of these liberties are shared, you might suffer from a
sudden shortage of liberties.
Next page: Failure
1067
White to live.
1068
1069
1
>1
> 2
> 2
○●○●○●○●○
> 1
●○●○●○●○●
> 2
> 4
> 13
> 3
2
> 2
4
> 4
5
Next page: Solution
1070
A
2
The diagonal move of White 2 protects White’s cutting point A

successfully.
White must not connect solidly instead.
1071
A
4 3
Black 3 connects on the outside, aiming at creating a shortage of liberties

on White’s side.
Black might also consider throwing in at A.
White jumps to 4 and has got a living shape.
1072
5
The tesuji of Black 5 is not available here.
1073
6 7
8 A
We have chosen White’s connection of 6 at the left for demonstrative

purposes. White will also gain a living shape by connecting at the right
(White 7, Black A, White 6).
Black 7 sacrifices a second stone.
White is unable to connect at A, and so has to capture with 8.
1074
9
10
Black throws in with 9, but now White is able to connect at 10, securing
her eye at the right.
These two moves are miai.
Black’s two stones at the left do not have not enough liberties to become a
real threat in this sub-variation.
1075
e e
1076
Black tries the throw-in of 3, but will end in vain.
1077
4
White 4 captures Black’s troublemaker at the right.
1078
6 5
After Black’s connection at 4, White is able to defend solidly at 6.
1079
8
7 A
Black’s diagonal move of 7 comes too late now.
White’s atari at 8 also stops Black from playing at A, so White got a living
shape.
1080
e
e
e
1081
Lessons learned
Only slightly reducing from the outside might not serve to reduce your
opponent’s potential eye space (●) decisively.
1082
Do not be surprised if your opponent actually defends a cutting point that
has been threatened by your previous move.
1083
2 2
Take into account that your opponent will save important stones that are in
imminent danger of being captured.
Next page: Failure
1084
White just connected solidly at the right.
Black to kill (by means of ko).
1085
1086
1
>1
> 2
> 2
> 1
○●○●○●○●○
> 2
●○●○●○●○●
> 4
> 13
> 3
2
> 2
4
> 4
5
Next page: Solution
1087
Black’s turning move at 3 creates a dead eye shape inside White’s

formation, simultaneously starting a partial semeai with White’s right-
hand group that suffers from a lack of liberties.
1088
A 4
White 4 attaches on the bottom, aiming at immobilising Black’s stones

above, as well as at partitioning her potential eye space.
White might consider playing hane at A instead.
1089
6 5
Black 5 takes another liberty of White’s stones at the right.
White has to block at 6, to keep her potential eye space as large as

possible.
1090
A 7 B 8
Black’s descent to 7 gives atari to White’s single stone on the first line,
stopping White from turning her potential eye into a winding line of
points.
White 8 captures Black’s two stones at the right, freeing her from her
shortage of liberties.
White must not give atari at A instead.
1091
Black will capture at B, and White will be forced to capture at 8 anyway.
With regard to the partial semeai at the right, White will have lost a move
unnecessarily.
Black’s throw-in at 9 is mandatory.
Black has to reduce the liberty count of White’s right-hand group.
1092
10
11
White 10 is her only valid option to give atari to Black’s four stones.
Black captures at 11, beginning a ko fight for the life of White’s group.
1093
ko
This is a direct ko. White has to look for the first valid ko threat.
1094
●○●○●○●○●○●
1095
e
e
1096
White’s hane at 4 also occupies a liberty of Black’s three stones above.
1097
6 5
Black’s extension to 5 aims at White’s shortage of liberties.
White has to block at 6, maximising her potential eye space.
1098
A
7 B 8
Black 7 descends to the first line, giving atari to White’s single stone at the
left.
White is unable to approach Black’s group from the right, both points of A
and of B are taboo for her.
Therefore, White 8 must capture two black stones at the right, resolving
the temporary seki inside her formation.
1099
9
Black’s four stones have only two liberties, so capturing at 9 is his only
choice.
1100
11
B 10 A
White’s atari at 10 stops Black from connecting his stones to the left.
Black’s cut at 11 is a natural reply, and a counter-atari to White’s just-

played stone.
White is unable to capture at A.
Black would give atari at B again, and White cannot connect her two
stones, due to her shortage of liberties at the left.
1101
12
13 A
White 12 attacks Black’s four stones from the right.
Black 13 captures White’s troublemaker at the left. His four stones,

however, are not yet securely connected to the left.
Black will also get a ko by playing the throw-in at A instead, but this ko
fight will result in a slight disadvantage for him.
1102
A 16 14 15
White 14 gives atari to Black’s four stones.
Black is unable to connect at 16, due to White A, and has to play the
throw-in of 15 at the right, giving counter-atari to White’s large right-hand
group.
White 16 captures a winding line of four black stones, but this will not be
sufficient for life.
1103
B
17 18
A C 19
Black 17 cuts at the left, giving atari to White’s single stone on the bottom.
White cannot capture at A. Black’s reply at 18 would reduce her group to

only one eye.
White’s counter-atari of 18 is her only chance left to divide her potential

eye space.
Finally, Black captures at 19, starting a ko fight for the life of White’s
1104
group.
Please note that it would be fruitless for White to give atari at B now.
Black would connect his two stones, by playing at C, and White A would
capture a dead four-stone eye shape only.
ko
1105
●○●○●○●○●○●
1106
e
e
1107
13
Black’s throw-in of 13 at the right is played too early.
1108
14
White 14 captures at the left, staring the ko fight for the life of her group.
This sub-variation is advantageous for her, because she captured the ko

first.
1109
ko
This is a direct ko. Black has to find the first valid ko threat.
1110
e
○●○●○●○●○●○
1111
1112
Lessons learned
Solidly connecting one of your cutting points ( ) might be too slow.
1113
!!
Consider carefully whether can afford to leave a hole (!!) in your

encirclement open for your opponent’s further encroachment.
1114
A solid connection might not serve to divide your remaining potential eye
space (●).
1115
When playing on the outside, carefully consider whether you might be
leaving a potential dead eye shape ( , △) behind inside, whose central
point is already occupied by your opponent.
1116
2 4 4 4
2 4 4 4
Do not forget to consider the liberties of groups that are caught in a partial
semeai.
1117
Problem 011
White to live.
1118
1119
○●○●○●○●○
1
●○●○●○●○●
> 1
> 2
> 2
> 2
> 1
> 2
> 1
> 2
> 2
2
> 2
4
> 4
Next page: Hints
1120
Hints 011
White’s potential eye space (●) is already divided into two sections.
1121
e
At the top, there is a sure eye (e) for White.
1122
? ?
? ? ?
? ? ? ?
This implies that White will have to create a second eye somewhere in the
?-area on the bottom.
1123
However, this seems to be easier said than done.
At the right, Black’s formation ( ) is very strong, providing massive

support to his two stones in the centre of White’s formation.
1124
!!
!!
!!
There is a very large hole (!!) at the right, which White might be unable to
close successfully.
1125
On the other hand, Black’s two stones are not yet securely connected to
their allies at the right ( ), so there might be some options for White
available that threaten this connection.
1126
?
A secondary effect to the left side would be desperately called for.
There, White’s groups are not yet solidly connected ( ), so it would need
three moves in a row to turn the ?-point on the first line into an eye.
1127
Black’s △-stones at the right are part of an extremely strong formation, so
White’s -stones might have no effect on the solution sequence.
It might not be unlikely that these white stones are only on the board to
bedazzle your mind.
Next page: Solution
1128
Solution 011
White plays the jump attachment of 1.
Please note that White cannot really expect to capture Black’s two stones.
Her position on the bottom is very weak, therefore she has to keep Black
busy at the right, setting the scene for creating an eye (her second one) at
1129
the left.
White will succeed neither by pushing from above at the right, nor by
jumping down to the second line at the right, nor by taking a liberty of
Black’s two stones at the left.
The hane of Black 2 will lead Black’s threatened two stones into the open.
Black might consider playing at A instead.
1130
C
B A 3
The diagonal move of White 3 is the second step for turning the point of A
into an eye.
Please note that Black is unable to frustrate White’s plan by playing the
hane of B. White C will capture Black’s two stones at the right.
1131
4
The atari of Black 4 defends his threatened stones.
Black might consider extending to A instead.
1132
5
6
White intercepts at 5, forcing Black to capture at 6.
1133
A B 8
9 C 7
White 7 is a tesuji that forces Black to connect at 8.
If Black played at 9 instead, White would give atari at A, and Black would
be unable to connect at B, due to White 8.
Eventually, White descends to 9. Black cannot approach at A, due to

White B, so C is a real eye.
1134
e
1135
Black’s extension to 4 is another valid option for saving his two stones.
1136
6
White inserts the forcing moves of 5 and …
1137
7
8
… 7, before …
1138
A B
9 C
… returning to the descent at 9.
Again, Black is unable to approach at A, due to White B, so C has become

a real eye.
1139
e
1140
Black’s turning move of 2 will result in a change in the order of moves.
1141
3
4
5 6
White intercepts at 3, forcing White to give atari at 4.
White’s atari at 5 forces Black to capture at 6.
1142
A B 8
9 C 7
White saves her just-played stone with 7, forcing Black to play the
protective move of 8 at the right.
White 9 secures the eye at C. Black cannot give atari at A, due to White B.
1143
e
Next page: Failure
1144
White just pushed from above at the right.
Black to kill.
1145
1146
1
○●○●○●○●○
> 1
●○●○●○●○●
> 2
> 2
> 2
> 1
> 2
> 1
> 2
> 2
2
> 2
4
> 4
Next page: Solution
1147
C
2 A B
The diagonal move of 2 is one of Black’s valid options here. Black

connects his two stones to the right, without giving White sufficient
forcing moves.
Black might consider jumping to A, or extending to B from the right,
1148
instead.
Connecting along the second line instead, with a move at C, might look
dangerous, due to the cutting points on each side, but Black will succeed
even with this move.
3 5 7
4 6 8
White tries her best with the forcing moves from 3 to 7, but Black 8
captures White’s single stone at the right.
1149
Now, there is no shortage of liberties on Black’s side, so White has no
chance to build another eye at the left.
10
9
White’s diagonal move at 9 does not work here; Black’s stones have too
many liberties left.
Black is even able to cut at 10.
1150
A
11
12
White’s forcing move at 11 is fruitless.
Black’s additional liberty at A makes the connection at 12 possible.
White has only one eye at the top, and so is dead.
1151
1152
Variation for Black 2 (I)
Black 2 is a jump on the first line.
White is not strong enough in the surrounding area to really threaten

Black’s connection.
1153
B A
3
White tries her best with attaching at 3, cutting into Black’s keima at the
left.
< Excursus – Cutting a keima (knight’s move) >
< Excursus – Strike at the waist of a keima >
White A or White B would be answered by Black 3, securely connecting

his two stones to the right, as we have seen just before.
1154
4 5
6
Black captures White’s just-played stone with 4 and 6.
1155
8 7 A B
White’s diagonal move at 7 does not contain a threat to the right.
Black 8 destroys White’s potential eye on the bottom line.
Black’s four stones have two outside liberties (●) left, and Black has to
connect two cutting points (at A and at B). White has no chance to capture
these stones.
1156
1157
Variation for Black 2 (II)
Black 2 at the utmost right is a very calm move.
It establishes a large-knight’s-jump conjunction to his two stones in the

centre of White’s formation that cannot be cut.
1158
3
White tries the jump attachment of 3.
1159
5 4
6
Black cuts at 4.
White’s wedge at 5 comes too late now.
Black simply captures White’s single stone on the bottom with 6.
1160
8 7
White’s diagonal move at 7 does not threaten Black’s stones at the right.
Black is able to destroy White’s potential eye at the left, by playing hane at
8.
1161
10
1162
11 12
White’s atari at 11 is fruitless.
Black simply connects at 12.
1163
1164
Variation for Black 2 (III)
Black 2 connects under at the second line.
1165
3
White’s wedge of 3 occupies the vital point of the problem, but comes too
late now.
1166
A
B 4
Due to the initial exchange of vs. , Black can securely play at 4 on the
bottom line.
Cutting at A instead would be mistaken.
White would answer with the counter-atari at B, reverting to the sequence

of the correct solution.
1167
5 6
White plays the diagonal move at 5 again, aiming for an eye at the left.
However, Black’s solid connection at 6 is the game winner. Now, there

will be no shortage of liberties at the right any more.
1168
8
7
1169
9
A
10 B
Black securely connects at 10.
White’s atari at A is no real threat, due to Black’s connection at B.
1170
1171
Lessons learned
Only slightly attacking still unconnected opponent stones ( ) from far

away might not be sufficient for success.
Your opponent might have too much open space left to manoeuvre.
1172
Note the value of the first line (◇) for connecting stones ( ).
Next page: Failure
1173
White just jumped down to the second line at the right.
Black to kill.
1174
1175
1
>1
> 2
> 2
> 2
○●○●○●○●○
> 1
●○●○●○●○●
> 2
> 1
> 2
> 2
2
> 2
4
> 4
Next page: Solution
1176
2
A
Black 2 pushes to the left, cutting into White’s one-point jump.
1177
3
4
Both sides cross-cut each other, White with her move at 3, Black with his
move at 4.
1178
7 6
5 8
White’s descent to 5 aims at increasing the liberties of her cut-off stone.
But the edge of the board is near, so Black will win the partial semeai at
the right, by playing at 6 and at 8.
White’s solid connection at 7 will be of no use here, …
1179
10 9
… because White 9 and Black 10 are miai.
White has only one eye at the top, and so is dead.
1180
1181
Black’s turning move at 2 bumps against White’s just-played stone.
1182
3
5 7
4 6 8
White connects her single stone with 3.
Thereafter, Black securely connects his three stones to the right, with the
sequence from Black 4 to Black 8.
1183
10 9
White’s throw-in at 9 is a nice try, but there will be no shortage of liberties

on Black’s side.
Black simply captures at 10.
1184
12 11
White’s diagonal move at 11 starts taking liberties from Black’s group at

the right.
Black’s hane at 12 is mandatory.
1185
15
13
16 14
White continues with 13 and 15, but finally, she is one step too late.
1186
1187
Lessons learned
Remember that a one-point jump in the centre can be cut easily by your
opponent.
1188
Cutting into a large knight’s jump that is near the edge of the board will
not serve to destroy that connection successfully, if you do not have any
support in the neighbouring areas.
Next page: Failure
1189
White just took a liberty of Black’s two stones at the left.
Black to kill.
1190
1191
1
>1
> 2
> 2
> 2
> 1
> 2
○●○●○●○●○
> 1
●○●○●○●○●
> 2
> 2
2
> 2
4
> 4
Next page: Solution
1192
A
2
The turning move of Black 2 does the job here.
Please note that Black occupied the vital point of the problem that White
1193
However, Black must not play a diagonal move on the second line instead.
4 3
White’s descent to 3 is a forcing move, aiming at weakening Black’s

connection at the right.
The hane of Black 4 is mandatory to stop White from creating her second
eye on the bottom line.
1194
7 6
5
8
White cuts at 5, but she will be unable to capture Black’s three stones.
After Black 8, his three stones in the centre are safe from being captured,
so White has only one eye at the top.
1195
1196
Black extends to 2 on the third line.
His formation on the bottom is too strong now to become successfully

threatened by White.
1197
4 3
White plays the descent to 3 as a forcing move, aiming at weakening

Black’s position at the right.
Black’s hane at 4 is mandatory.
1198
5
6 7
8
White tries her best, with cutting at 5 and 7.
Black’s atari at 8 immobilises White’s single stone, successfully

connecting his three stones to the right.
1199
1200
Lessons learned
Threatening an opponent’s connection ( ) only from the outside might

not lead to success.
If your move played does not contain an imminent second threat, it is

likely to be much too slow.
1201
have taken.
Next page: Failure
1202
Black just played a diagonal move from the right.
White to live.
1203
1204
1
>1
> 2
> 2
> 2
> 1
> 2
> 1
> 2
○●○●○●○●○
> 2
●○●○●○●○●
2
> 2
4
> 4
Next page: Solution
1205
White 3 is a wedge inside Black’s weak one-point jump on the second line.
Please note that Black’s two stones at the left are reduced to only two
liberties.
1206
4 5
Black 4 gives atari from above.
Playing atari from below, with a move at A, will lead to a similar result,
after White connects at 4, giving atari to Black’s two stones.
White 5 cuts, also giving counter-atari to Black’s three stones at the left.
1207
9 7 6 8
Black descends to 6. He might change to order of his moves at 6 and at 8,

but to no effect.
White’s descent to 7 is also an atari, forcing Black to capture at 8.
White’s final descent at 9 secures her second eye on the bottom left.
1208
e
1209
Lessons learned
Carefully consider potential weaknesses in the connection between your

partial groups ( ) that might be exploited by your opponent.
1210
3
3
Remember that groups that have only three (or fewer) liberties are quite
1211
have taken.
1212
Problem 012
Black to kill.
1213
1214
○●○●○●○●○
1
●○●○●○●○●
> 1
> 2
> 1
> 1
> 2
> 8
> 3
> 3
> 1
> 3
2
> 2
> 3
> 5
3
> 3
> 4
Next page: Hints
1215
Hints 012
White’s potential eye space consists of a long winding line of empty points
(●).
1216
1217
2 2
2 2 2 2
2 2
2 2
Three of White’s partial groups have two liberties only, and so are very
We already know that – in tsume-go – it might not be the best idea to start
the solution sequence with an atari, as such a move might be sente.
1218
4 4
White’s two stones in the centre have four liberties, and so are unlikely to
become Black’s primary target for an attack.
1219
At the left, there is a dead three-point eye shape (△) visible that is entirely
empty.
1220
Another dead three-point eye shape (△) is at the right, whose central point
is also still unoccupied.
1221
The central point of these dead eye shapes very often guides you to vital
shape points of the problem.
However, here we have two of these central points (□) to choose from.
Further information is needed for the forthcoming decision as to which one
of these might be promising.
1222
? ? ? ?
Black’s -stones at the left are strong, but located only on the third line.
Black will have to consider whether the ?-area in the bottom left might
become of some use for White.
Next page: Solution
1223
Solution 012
A
1 B
The placement of Black 1 occupies the vital point of the problem. It

threatens to capture some of White’s stones at the right, either by cutting at
A, or by giving atari at B.
Please note that White could have easily partitioned her eye space by
1224
occupying this point.
Black will succeed neither by playing a diagonal jump to the first line from
the left, nor by playing atari from the outside at the right, nor by playing
hane at the left, nor by descending at the left.
A 2
White does not have any time to answer at the right. She descends to 2
instead, trying to maximise her potential eye space at the left.
1225
White might consider playing the hane at A instead.
Black 3 occupies a similar shape point at the left as he did earlier at the
right.
Black must not give double-atari at the right instead.
1226
6
4 5
Capturing only Black’s just-played stone at the left would not be sufficient
for two eyes. Therefore, White saves her stones at the right by connecting
at 4.
Black’s atari of 5 from the outside is sente, White has to connect at 6.
1227
B
A 7
Black extends to 7 at the left, starting the escape route of his stone there.
Please note that White’s five-stone group above has only two liberties, but
Black’s group has three liberties.
White is unable to block Black’s path with a hane at A, as Black’s

following cut at B would be double-atari, saving his two stones on the first
line.
1228
12 10 8
11 9
White is forced to extend solidly at 8.
However, after Black’s extension to 9, nothing has changed with regard to

the liberties of White’s group at the left.
The story continues until White’s descent to 12.
1229
13
A B
But there remains the cutting point of Black 13.
White’s two groups have only two liberties left, so White is unable to give
atari to Black’s stones inside her formation at A, or at B. White is helpless,
has only one eye at the right, and so is dead.
1230
1231
White 2 is a hane at the left, aiming at maximising her potential eye space
in that area.
To be continued …
1232
Next page: Failure
1233
Black just played double-atari at the right.
White to live.
1234
1235
1
> 1
> 2
> 1
> 1
> 2
> 8
> 3
> 3
> 1
> 3
2
> 2
> 3
> 5
3
○●○●○●○●○
> 3
●○●○●○●○●
> 4
Next page: Solution
1236
White 4 occupies the second vital point at the left.
White must not connect her three stones at the right instead.
1237
B
A 5
Black extends to 5, destroying White’s potential eye at the right.
Please note that Black is hindered from further approaching at A, so B is a

real eye for White – may be for the time being only.
1238
7 6
8
White 6 and 8 create White’s second eye at the left.
1239
9
10
Black can capture White’s stones at the right, with his move at 9.
However, he will be unable to also kill White’s remaining forces at the

left. White simply connects at 10.
1240
e
e
1241
Lessons learned
Think twice before giving atari (or even double-atari, as here).
If you are threatening only some unimportant stones on one side of your
opponent’s formation, the bigger fish might bounce off the hook.
1242
When playing on the outskirts of your opponent’s formation, do not leave
a dead eye shape (△) behind, whose central point is still unoccupied.
1243
Be aware that your opponent will not think twice before occupying that
central point (□) of a potential dead eye shape, separating all the remaining
empty points (●) of their potential eye space from each other.
1244
have taken.
Next page: Failure
1245
Black to kill.
1246
1247
1
> 1
> 2
> 1
> 1
> 2
> 8
> 3
> 3
> 1
> 3
2
> 2
> 3
> 5
3
> 3
○●○●○●○●○
> 4
●○●○●○●○●
Next page: Solution
1248
Black 5 occupies the vital shape point at the left that White should have
taken beforehand.
1249
6
Capturing Black’s two stones at the right with 6 does not help White.
1250
C B A
7
Black’s throw-in at 7 turns White’s potential eye at the right into a false
one.
At the left, White would need three moves in a row (A, B and C) to create
a living shape for her group.
1251
1252
Lessons learned
Think twice before connecting some of your stones that are in atari!
Especially if these stones are located on the outskirts of your formation.
1253
Consider carefully whether your are leaving nothing more than a false eye
( ) behind.
1254
When playing on the outside, do not leave a dead eye shape (△) behind
inside, whose central point is still unoccupied.
1255
Your opponent might not think twice before occupying that central point
(□), spoiling your remaining potential eye space.
1256
have taken.
1257
Black to kill.
1258
1259
1
> 1
> 2
> 1
> 1
> 2
> 8
> 3
> 3
> 1
> 3
2
○●○●○●○●○
> 2
●○●○●○●○●
> 3
> 5
3
> 3
> 4
Next page: Hints
1260
White’s maximum potential eye space (●) is quite large, but has strong
bulky tendencies at the left.
1261
White’s partial group are not yet solidly connected ( ), leaving cutting
1262
2 2
2 2 2 2
2 2
2 2
Three of White’s partial groups have only two liberties, and so are very
1263
At the moment, White’s two groups at the right cannot escape capture.
However, Black should ask himself carefully whether it might be the best
idea to do the easiest job first.
1264
3 4 4
White’s other groups have 3, respectively 4, liberties, and so might not

become the primary target for an attack.
1265
3
Black’s single stone at the bottom right has three liberties, and so looks
quite viable.
1266
At the utmost right, there is a false eye ( , ✕) available for Black.
Next page: Solution
1267
Black cuts at 3, simultaneously giving atari to White’s four stones above.
Black must not try capturing White’s stones at the right instead.
1268
4
5
White is forced to connect at 4.
Black extends to 5, sacrificing two stones instead of only one. White will
suffer from a shortage of liberties on both sides.
1269
6
B 7 A
Capturing only Black’s two stones at the left will not be sufficient for live,
therefore White connects at the right, with her move at 6.
Connecting with 6 at 7 will not benefit White either. Black will give atari
at A, and – after White’s connection at 7 – win the partial semeai at the
right by giving atari at B.
Black cuts at 7, creating a false eye for White in that area.
1270
9 8
10 B 11 A
White tries to expand her potential eye space by pushing to 8.
If she plays at 11 instead, Black will answer with the counter-atari at 8.
After Black’s hane at 9, White 10 and Black 11 are miai.
Here, White is unable to give atari to Black’s three stones inside her
formation. The points of A and B are taboo for her.
1271
12
Capturing two black stones at the right with 12 does not free White from
her shortage of liberties.
1272
A 13
Black 13 throws in, making White’s potential eye at the right false.
White still cannot give atari at A. However, this fact has become quite
irrelevant in the meantime, as White would capture only a dead eye shape.
1273
Next page: Failure
1274
012 Problem (variation – failure)
Black just cut at the right, giving atari to White’s three stones above.
White to live.
1275
1276
1
> 1
> 2
> 1
> 1
> 2
> 8
> 3
> 3
> 1
> 3
2
> 2
○●○●○●○●○
> 3
●○●○●○●○●
> 5
3
> 3
> 4
Next page: Solution
1277
012 Solution (variation – failure)
White 4 solidly connects at the left, occupying the vital point of the
problem that Black should have taken beforehand.
1278
A 5
Black’s turning move of 5 at the right aims at reducing White’s potential

eye space.
Black might consider playing the placement of A at the left instead.
1279
6 7
White 6 blocks Black’s further encroachment, also giving atari to Black’s

three stones.
Black has to capture at 7.
1280
8
White 8 secures two eyes for White.
1281
e
e
1282
Black tries the placement of 5 at the left that was so successful in the main
line of the solution sequence.
1283
6
White’s descent to 6 gives atari to Black’s two stones at the right.
1284
7 B A
Black’s extension to 7 is shown for demonstrative purposes.
At any time he likes from now on, Black might capture White’s stones at
the right, by playing at A.
Thereafter, White will divide her eye space with B, and Black’s stone(s)
on the bottom left will be unable to escape.
1285
10 8 11
B 9 A
The sequence at the left continues with White 8.
Finally, Black cuts at 11.
White can approach Black’s stones neither at A, nor at B, so these are safe
from being captured.
1286
12
White 12 captures Black’s two stones at the right, freeing her from her
shortage of liberties in the centre.
1287
13
A 14
Black 13 gives atari to White’s three stones at the left.
White’s descent to 14 secures her second eye on the bottom.
Capturing at A is left as an endgame issue here.
1288
e
e
1289
Lessons learned
Think twice before giving atari.
1290
a winding line of empty points (●; “snake”) behind, which might become
easily divided by your opponent.
1291
2
2
Mind your own weaknesses while attacking.
These might become the source of a counterattack by your opponent.
1292
When threatening to capture some unimportant opponent stones, do not be
surprised if your opponent forces you to actually finish your task.
1293
have taken.
Next page: Failure
1294
Black just played a diagonal jump to the first line.
White to live.
1295
1296
1
○●○●○●○●○
> 1
●○●○●○●○●
> 2
> 1
> 1
> 2
> 8
> 3
> 3
> 1
> 3
2
> 2
> 3
> 5
3
> 3
> 4
Next page: Solution
1297
White 2 occupies the vital shape point at the right that Black should have
taken with his first move.
White must not solidly connect at the left instead.
1298
4 A
3
Black extends to 3, hindering White from occupying this point for her
second eye.
In a real game, Black will capture White’s four stones at the left with a
move at A instead. Please note that this capture will be gote (White 3,
Black 4).
White descends to 4 now; she will capture Black’s troublemakers on the
1299
first line.
10 8 6 11
9 7 5 A
Black now tries the procedure that worked so well in the solution
sequence; he extends from 5 to 9, and finally cuts at 11.
Please note that giving atari A at the right still does not work for Black.
White will not connect her three stones, but recapture if necessary.
1300
12
Here, Black will be taken by surprise. White has sufficient liberties at the
right to give atari at 12, capturing all of Black’s stones on the bottom.
1301
e
e
1302
Lessons learned
When attacking from the outside, do not leave a dead eye shape (△)
behind, whose central point is still unoccupied.
1303
(□) of a potential dead eye shape, separating all the remaining empty
points (●) of their potential eye space from each other.
1304
Your opponent will think twice before connecting some unimportant
stones that are located at the outskirts of their position.
1305
Mind your own weaknesses ( ) while attacking.
1306
have taken.
Next page: Failure
1307
White just connected her stones at the left.
Black to kill.
1308
1309
1
> 1
○●○●○●○●○
> 2
●○●○●○●○●
> 1
> 1
> 2
> 8
> 3
> 3
> 1
> 3
2
> 2
> 3
> 5
3
> 3
> 4
Next page: Solution
1310
Trying to save stones that are not really needed for making life ends fatal
here.
Black descends to 3, denying White any options in the corner area.
1311
5 4
White 4 occupies the vital shape point at the right, but this move comes
too late now.
Black extends to 5, destroying White’s potential second eye.
1312
7
6
White’s hane at 6 does not really help. Black cuts at 7, and there remains
only a false eye at the left.
1313
1314
Lessons learned
Think twice before connecting some unimportant stones that are located at
the outskirts of your position!
1315
When playing on the outside, do not leave a dead eye shape (△) behind
inside, whose central point is still unoccupied.
1316
If your potential eye space is quite small, occupying that central point (□)
of a dead eye shape and …
1317
!!
… closing a remaining hole (!!) in your encirclement might become miai.
1318
Trying to capture a single opponent stone that is located on the first line
might result in only a false eye (✕).
Next page: Failure
1319
Black just played atari at the right.
White to live.
1320
1321
1
>1
> 2
○●○●○●○●○
> 1
●○●○●○●○●
> 1
> 2
> 8
> 3
> 3
> 1
> 3
2
> 2
> 3
> 5
3
> 3
> 4
Next page: Solution
1322
Think twice before giving atari! Especially if your opponent does not
really need your object of desire!
White 2 occupies the vital shape point of the problem that Black should
have taken beforehand.
1323
3
Black 3 captures White’s three stones, but this will not affect the life-and-
death status of White’s group.
1324
B
A 4
White simply recaptures with 4. White is the owner of the point of A, so B

is a real eye.
Additionally, Black will be unable to capture White’s four stones at the

left.
1325
e
e
1326
Lessons learned
If you are threatening only some unimportant stones on the outskirts of

your opponent’s formation, the bigger fish might bounce off the hook.
1327
a winding line of empty points (●; “snake”) behind, which might become
easily divided by your opponent.
1328
surprised if your opponent lets you get what you wanted to have.
1329
have taken.
Next page: Failure
1330
Black just played hane at the left.
White to live.
1331
1332
1
>1
> 2
> 1
○●○●○●○●○
> 1
●○●○●○●○●
> 2
> 8
> 3
> 3
> 1
> 3
2
> 2
> 3
> 5
3
> 3
> 4
Next page: Solution
1333
White connects at 2. This move saves her four stones at the left and
threatens to capture Black’s just-played stone for an eye.
White must not occupy the shape point at the right instead.
1334
B A 3
Black 3 occupies the vital point at the right, but this move comes too late
now.
Black might consider playing the hane of A, or the diagonal connection of

B, instead.
1335
5 4
6
White captures Black’s single stone at the left with 4 and 6, securing two
eyes for her main forces.
1336
7
8 9
Black is able to capture White’s six stones at the right, starting with his
move at 7, but in gote only.
1337
e
e
1338
Black plays the hane of 3, hoping for a ko.
1339
4
5
And indeed, White really cuts at the left, with her move at 4.
Black 5 gives counter-atari from below, establishing a ko shape on the

bottom.
1340
6
White, however, is not bound to fight a ko for the life of her group. She
gives atari at 6 instead.
1341
A
7
Black 7 occupies the vital point at the right. This move will enable him to
capture White’s six stones at the right later.
If he captures White’s single stone at the left, with a move at A, instead,

White will live by taking the point of 7 herself, also saving her right-hand
stones.
1342
8
White 8 captures two black stones, so there will be no ko at the left.
1343
10 9
It is best for Black to make profit by capturing White’s six stones at the
right, with the cutting move at 9.
However, the bigger fish jumps off the hook. White extends to 10,
securing the life of her group at the left.
1344
e
e
1345
Black plays the diagonal connection of 3.
1346
4
White occupies the vital shape point 4 at the right, and is alive.
1347
5 6
Black cannot destroy White’s eye on the bottom.
1348
e
e
1349
Lessons learned
1350
Do not be surprised if your opponent actually connects important stones
that are in danger of being captured.
1351
When attacking on the outskirts of your opponent’s formation, do not
leave a winding line of empty points (●; “snake”) behind, which might
become easily divided by your opponent.
1352
Next page: Failure
1353
White just played on the first line at the right.
1354
1355
1
>1
> 2
> 1
> 1
○●○●○●○●○
> 2
●○●○●○●○●
> 8
> 3
> 3
> 1
> 3
2
> 2
> 3
> 5
3
> 3
> 4
Next page: Solution
1356
Black attaches at 3, temporarily destroying White’s potential eye in this

area.
1357
6 4
7 5
White connects solidly at 4, forcing Black to extend to 5.
White cuts at 6, but Black gives atari from below, with his move at 7,
establishing a ko shape.
1358
A
8 B
White captures at 8, starting the ko fight for the life of her group.
Please note that White has an internal ko threat at A, making this line of
play favourable for her.
White must not hastily give atari at B instead.
1359
ko
Black has to find the first valid ko threat.
1360
e
e
○●○●○●○●○●○
1361
9
10
11
Black 9 is a valid ko threat that is answered by White 10.
1362
13 12
14
White’s extension to 12 is an internal ko threat. Black is still unable to

connect the ko at 14.
Black 13 gives atari in the corner instead.
1363
15
16
17
Black 15 is the second valid ko threat.
1364
18
19
Black ignores White’s ko threat of 18 in order to terminate the ko fight, by

capturing two white stones with 19.
Black needed two more valid ko threats than White to win this fight, not
only one.
1365
1366
Lessons learned
Not every central point ( ) of every dead eye shape ( , △)) is

necessarily a vital point of the problem that should be taken without
thinking.
1367
If your potential eye space is quite small, occupying that central point ( )
of a dead eye shape and …
1368
!!
… closing a remaining hole (!!) in your encirclement might become miai.
Next page: Failure
1369
White just played atari.
Black to kill.
1370
1371
1
>1
> 2
> 1
> 1
> 2
○●○●○●○●○
> 8
●○●○●○●○●
> 3
> 3
> 1
> 3
2
> 2
> 3
> 5
3
> 3
> 4
Next page: Solution
1372
Black 9 simply captures White’s single stone at the left.
1373
10
White 10 captures two of Black’s stones on the bottom, but …
1374
11
… for a false eye only. Black’s recapture at 11 is fatal.
1375
1376
Lessons learned
Think twice before giving atari (or even double-atari, as here)!
1377
Mind the lines of false eyes ( ).
1378
Capturing only two stones ( ) on the first line might not be sufficient for
creating an eye.
1379
Mind your own weaknesses when attacking.
Next page: Failure
1380
Black just descended at the left.
White to live.
1381
1382
1
> 1
> 2
> 1
> 1
2>
> 8
> 3
> 3
○●○●○●○●○
> 1
●○●○●○●○●
> 3
2
> 2
> 3
> 5
3
> 3
> 4
Next page: Solution
1383
White 2 occupies the vital shape point at the right that Black should have
taken beforehand.
1384
3
4
Black cuts at 3, capturing White’s four stones in sente.
Black might consider attaching at 4 instead.
White descends to 4, securing the second eye for her group.
1385
e
e
1386
Black’s attachment at 3 will not work here.
1387
5 6
4
White is able to block at 4.
Black forces with the atari at 5, but White simply connects at 6, saving all
of her stones.
1388
e
e
1389
Lessons learned
2 2
2 2
Think twice before attacking some of your opponent stones that might
become captured quite easily.
1390
Do not be surprised if your opponent lets you get what you wanted to
have.
In the meantime, the bigger fish will bounce off the hook.
1391
When playing on the outside, do not leave a dead eye shape (△) inside
1392
(□) of a dead eye shape, separating all the remaining empty points (●) of
their potential eye space from each other.
1393
have taken.
1394
Problem 013
White to kill.
1395
1396
○●○●○●○●○
1
●○●○●○●○●
> 1
> 1
> 3
> 6
> 1
2
> 2
> 3
> 3
> 2
Next page: Hints
1397
Hints 013
Black’s potential eye space (●) is quite large and elongated, but with some
bulky tendencies at the top.
1398
Black’s partial groups are not yet solidly connected ( ), leaving a lot of
1399
At the top, there is a dead five-point eye shape (△) visible, whose central
1400
Another dead five-point exe shape (△) in the centre of Black’s formation,
whose central point is also empty.
1401
However, these dead eye shape do not fill Black’s potential eye space
completely.
You will have to consider carefully whether (at least) one of these dead
eye shapes' central points (□) might become the vital point of the problem.
1402
!!
In the top right, there is a hole (!!) in Black’s encirclement.
1403
On both sides, White already descended to the first line ( ).
1404
White is looking forward to the marked line of false eyes ( , ✕) on the
bottom.
1405
At the top of Black’s formation, there are two lines of false eyes ( , ✕)
available that share their endpoint inside Black’s potential eye space.
1406
3 3
3 3 3
3
3
3
3
2
Most of Black’s partial groups have only three, respectively two, liberties,
several of which are shared.
This implies that all of these groups are quite vulnerable to an attack.
White will have to choose the right starting point.
1407
4
4
4
Black’s three stones at the right have four liberties, and so are unlikely to
Next page: Solution
1408
Solution 013
White 1 cuts at the left.
Please note that this move reduces Black’s neighboured groups to only two
liberties (●).
White will succeed neither by attaching in the centre of Black’s formation
1409
at the top, nor by attaching at Black’s four stones in the top right, nor by
playing atari to the bottom.
B 2
A
Black 2 closes the borders of his formation, hoping that his potential eye
space will be large enough for two eyes.
Black might consider giving atari from the right at A, or giving atari from
above at B, instead.
1410
4
3
White 3 gives atari at the left, hindering Black from dividing his potential
eye space by occupying the same point.
Black is forced to connect at 4.
Capturing White’s single stone on the bottom will provide him with only
one eye.
1411
6
White 5 is double-atari, forcing Black to capture her single stone, with a

move at 6.
1412
7
White 7 gives atari from the other side, turning Black’s potential eye on
the bottom into a false one. Black’s group has only one eye, and so is dead.
1413
1414
Black 2 gives atari to White’s just-played stone from the right.
To be continued …
1415
1416
Black 2 gives atari from above on White’s just-played stone.
To be continued …
1417
1418
White to kill.
1419
1420
1
> 1
> 1
> 3
> 6
> 1
2
○●○●○●○●○
> 2
●○●○●○●○●
> 3
> 3
> 2
Next page: Hints
1421
Black’s potential eye space (●) is already divided into two sections.
1422
1423
3 3
2 3 3
2
2
2
2
2
Most of Black’s partial groups have only three, respectively two, liberties,
several of which are shared.
1424
!!
1425
On both sides, White already descended to the first line ( ).
1426
At the top, there is a dead four-point eye shape ( , △) visible, whose
1427
Next page: Solution
1428
4
3
White 3 is the same atari at the left as in the main line of the solution.
White will succeed neither by giving double atari to the bottom, nor by
pushing in the top right.
Black must connect at 4.
1429
6
Thereafter, it follows the same procedure as we have seen just before, with
White’s first atari at 5 …
1430
7
… and her second, fatal, one at 7.
1431
Next page: Failure
1432
013 Problem (variation I – failure I)
White just played a double-atari to the bottom left.
Black to live.
1433
1434
1
> 1
> 1
> 3
> 6
> 1
2
> 2
○●○●○●○●○
> 3
●○●○●○●○●
> 3
> 2
Next page: Solution
1435
013 Solution (variation I – failure I)
Black captures at 4, occupying the vital point at the top that White should
There are no weaknesses in Black’s formation left that could be

successfully exploited by White.
1436
6 5
C
B
White 5 forces Black to connect at 6.
Even after White captured Black’s single stone on the bottom, Black still
is the owner of the point of B, so C is a real eye.
1437
e
1438
Lessons learned
Think twice before giving atari (or even double-atari as here)!
1439
?
When your opponent’s potential eye space is already divided into two,
destroying only the smaller part (?) does not make sense, if the remaining
larger part alone (●) might be sufficient for creating two eyes.
1440
When playing on the outside, do not leave a dead eye shape ( , △) inside
1441
(□) of a dead eye shape, separating all the remaining empty points (●) of
their potential eye space from each other.
1442
Mind your own weaknesses ( ) while attacking.
1443
have taken.
Next page: Failure
1444
013 Problem (variation I – failure II)
White just pushed in the top right.
Black to live.
1445
1446
1
> 1
> 1
> 3
> 6
> 1
2
>2
> 3
○●○●○●○●○
> 3
●○●○●○●○●
> 2
Next page: Solution
1447
013 Solution (variation I – failure II)
A 4
Black blocks at 4.
He must not capture at A instead, because another white push at 4 would

be fatal, spoiling his eye shape at the top.
1448
6
5
White’s atari of 5 inside Black’s formation comes too late now.
Giving double-atari to the bottom at A instead will be answered by a black

move at 5, resulting in a change in the order of moves with the previous
sub-variation.
1449
7 8
White 7 on the first line is no double-atari any longer, so Black calmly

connects at 8 for his second eye.
1450
e
1451
Lessons learned
!!
Attacking a hole (!!) in your opponent’s encirclement too early might do

nothing more than consolidating your opponent’s formation.
1452
When attacking from the outside, do not leave a dead eye shape ( , △)
inside behind, whose central point is still unoccupied.
1453
Your opponent might be able to occupy that central point (□) of a dead eye
shape, separating all the remaining empty points (●) of their potential eye
space from each other.
1454
When your opponent’s potential eye space is already divided into two
parts (●), reducing the larger section to only one eye is fruitless, as long as
you cannot also destroy your opponent’s potential eye in the second one
thereafter.
1455
Consider your own weaknesses ( ) carefully before starting an attack on
your opponent’s formation.
1456
Problem 013 (variation II)
White to kill.
1457
1458
1
> 1
> 1
> 3
> 6
> 1
2
>2
> 3
> 3
○●○●○●○●○
> 2
●○●○●○●○●
Next page: Hints
1459
Hints 013 (variation II)
1460
1461
3 3
2 3 3
2 2
2
2
2
2
Most of Black’s partial groups have only two or three liberties, several of
which are shared.
1462
!!
1463
Next page: Solution
1464
A
3 B
White 3 gives counter-atari, also threatening to connect to the right.
1465
5
4
Black only remaining chance is to capture at 4, temporarily saving his four

stones in the top left.
However, White 5 connects her other stone to the outside, making Black’s
potential eyes at the top false.
White has only one real eye at the bottom, and so is dead.
1466
Next page: Failure
1467
White just attached at the left inside Black’s formation.
Black to live.
1468
1469
1
○●○●○●○●○
> 1
●○●○●○●○●
> 1
> 3
> 6
> 1
2
> 2
> 3
> 3
> 2
Next page: Solution
1470
Black 2 connects at the point that White should have taken with her initial
move.
This connection turns Black’s potential eye space into a winding line of six
points (●; “snake”), with sufficient options for partitioning.
1471
4 3
5 6
White can play the forcing moves at 3 and 5, but is unable to reduce
Black’s eye space to only one eye.
1472
e
1473
Lessons learned
Not every central point ( ) of every dead eye shape ( , △) is always a

vital point of the problem.
Especially if this potential dead eye shape does not fill your opponent’s
potential eye space completely.
1474
Your opponent might be able to turn their remaining potential eye space
into a long winding line of points (●; “snake”), containing sufficient
1475
have taken.
Next page: Failure
1476
White just attached at the top.
Black to live.
1477
1478
1
> 1
○●○●○●○●○
> 1
●○●○●○●○●
> 3
> 6
> 1
2
> 2
> 3
> 3
> 2
Next page: Solution
1479
The connection of Black 2 closes the hole at the top right.
1480
B
3
White 3 cuts at the left, but this move comes too late now.
White might consider giving atari at A instead.
1481
4
Black 4 gives atari to both white stones that are inside his formation.
1482
6
White tries the atari of 5 at the bottom, but Black is able to capture at 6.
1483
8
7
White 7 aims at establishing a dead eye shape.
This move is also an atari, so Black has to capture at 8.
1484
10
White 9 and Black 10 are miai now. Black has got two eyes for the life of
his group.
1485
e
e
1486
White 3 gives atari to the bottom, hoping for a black mistake.
1487
4
Black 4 immobilises White’s single stone at the top, also successfully

dividing his eye space.
1488
5
White 5 captures at the bottom, but this move does not contain a fatal
threat.
1489
6
Black 6 closes the last hole in his encirclement, but this might be
understood as an endgame issue only.
In a real game, Black might consider playing elsewhere instead.
1490
e
1491
Black is able to play elsewhere.
1492
7
White 7 gives atari to Black’s two stones at the left.
1493
8 A
Black 8 calmly connects.
White is unable to also connect at A, due to Black B.
1494
10
White 9 forces Black to capture at 10.
White has reduced Black’s territory, but was unable to kill his group.
1495
e
e
1496
Lessons learned
!!
Attacking a hole (!!) in your opponent’s formation from the inside will fail
if your move does not contain an imminent second threat that could be
used immediately.
1497
When addressing lines of false eyes ( , ✕), do not forget that you will
have to keep permanent stones on both ends of such lines.
Next page: Failure
1498
White just played atari to the bottom.
Black to live.
1499
1500
1
> 1
> 1
3>
> 6
○●○●○●○●○
> 1
●○●○●○●○●
2
> 2
> 3
> 3
> 2
Next page: Solution
1501
Black 2 successfully divides his potential eye space in the centre.
1502
4 3
White can play the forcing move of 3, and can also capture Black’s single
stone on the bottom, with her move at 5, but she is unable to kill Black’s
group.
Black connects at 6, securing his second eye.
1503
e
1504
Lessons learned
When attacking from the outside, do not leave a dead eye shape ( , △)
inside behind, whose central point is still unoccupied.
1505
Your opponent will not think twice before occupying that central point (□)
of a dead eye shape, separating the remaining empty points (●) of their
potential eye space from each other.
1506
Problem 014
White to live.
1507
1508
○●○●○●○●○
1
●○●○●○●○●
> 1
> 2
> 4
> 3
> 12
> 1
> 2
> 3
2
> 2
4
> 4
Next page: Hints
1509
Hints 014
White’s potential eye space (●) is very small, but already divided.
1510
e
1511
?
?
It seems likely that White will have to establish her second eye in the ?-
area on the bottom.
1512
Black’s -stones at the right and at the left are situated only on the third
line, so there might be some room left for White to manoeuvre.
1513
Black’s single stone on the second line is not yet securely connected to his
allies ( ) that are looking forward to reaching that single stone their
helping hand.
1514
!! !!
There are two gaps (!!) in Black’s formation along the bottom.
White will have to address both of these gaps simultaneously if she ever
wants to capture Black’s single stone.
1515
At the left, Black’s partial groups are not yet solidly connected ( ).
This seems to be the only weakness in Black’s encirclement.
1516
3 3
Black’s two stones at the left have only three liberties, so these are quite
Next page: Solution
1517
Solution 014
A
1
White 1 attaches at the left, aiming at Black’s weaknesses in that area.
White might consider cutting at A instead.
White will not succeed by descending at the left.
1518
2
A
Black’s solid connection at 2 does not give White any options at the left.
1519
3
White descends to 3 at the right, capturing Black’s single stone at the

bottom. Black is unable to lead his stone into the open, due to White’s
initially played -stone.
1520
4 5
Black 4 aims at capturing White’s stone at the left later.
Black might consider playing 4 at 5 instead.
White is forced to answer at 5, securely capturing Black’s single stone for

her second eye.
1521
e
1522
Black extends to 4, trying to escape to the left.
1523
5
White cuts at 5.
White’s two stones at the left have one more liberty than Black’s two
stones on the bottom, so Black cannot win the partial semeai between
these two groups.
1524
6
8 9 7
Black forces with 6 and 8, but eventually White 9 captures Black’s two
stones for her second eye.
In a real game, Black would not have chosen this line of play.
1525
e
1526
Black descends to 2, blocking the left side.
1527
A
4 3 5
White’s descent to 3 threatens to the left as well as to the right.
Black 4 captures White’s single stone at the left, also protecting against
White’s potential cut at A that would have captured Black’s three stones.
While Black is busy at the left, White plays at the right. The second
descent to White 5 securely captures Black’s single stone for the life of her
group.
1528
e
1529
White 1 cuts at the left, threatening to capture Black’s two stones.
1530
A 2
Black’s move at 2 is the continuation of this sub-variation that can be

found in the tsume-go books.
In a real game, Black would play at A instead, immobilising White’s

cutting stone at the left.
To be continued …
1531
1532
Black 2 gives atari to White’s troublemaker at the left.
1533
3
White’s counter-atari at 3 is mandatory.
White must not descend on the bottom instead.
1534
A
4 5
6
Black’s turning move at 4 also immobilises White’s second stone at the

left.
Black might consider capturing at A instead.
White’s descent to 5 gives atari to Black’s three stones, so Black is forced

to capture at 6.
1535
7
White’s second descent at 7 secures her second eye on the bottom,

1536
e
1537
Variation for Black 4 (Black 2 (White 1))
1538
B A 5
White’s descent to 5 successfully immobilises Black’s single stone on the

bottom.
Black cannot connect to the left, by playing at A, due to White B, which is

also an atari to Black’s two stones above.
1539
6 7
Black 6 forces White to capture Black’s single stone by descending to 7.
1540
e
Next page: Failure
1541
Black to kill.
1542
1543
1
> 1
> 2
> 4
> 3
> 12
>1
> 2
○●○●○●○●○
> 3
●○●○●○●○●
2
> 2
4
> 4
Next page: Solution
1544
Black 4 saves his single stone by connecting to the right.
1545
5
6
White tries her best by extending to 5, but Black 6 takes a decisive liberty
of White’s two stones.
1546
10
9
8
7 11
White cuts at 7, giving atari at Black’s two stones above.
Black’s hane at 8 is a counter-atari.
After playing once at the left, at 9, White is forced to come back to the
bottom, by capturing two black stones with her move at 11.
1547
A
12 13
Black throws in at 12, stopping White from separating his stones in the
corner, by playing at A.
White has not other choice but to capture at 13.
1548
14
15 16
Black 14 connects his corner stones to the left edge.
On the bottom White 15 and Black 16 are miai, so White is dead.
1549
1550
Lessons learned
Closing only one of two escape routes of an opponent stone will not
succeed if your move does not contain an imminent second threat.
1551
1552
Mind potential lines of false eyes that could be established by your
opponent.
1553
Capturing only two opponent stones might result in only a false eye.
1554
White to live.
1555
1556
1
> 1
>
2
> 4
○●○●○●○●○
> 3
●○●○●○●○●
> 12
> 1
> 2
> 3
2
> 2
4
> 4
Next page: Hints
1557
White’s maximum potential eye space (●) is already divide into two
sections.
1558
e
At the top, White has a sure eye (e).
1559
? ?
? ? ? ?
? ? ? ?
To create a living shape, she will have to establish another eye in the large
?-area on the bottom that is already filled with several black stones.
1560
Black’s partial groups along the bottom are not yet solidly connected ( ),
leaving cutting points for White to exploit.
1561
2 2
Black’s two stones at the left have only two liberties, and so are very
1562
4 4
Black’s two stones on the second line have four liberties, and so are
unlikely to become the primary target for attack.
1563
White’s single stone in the corner is not yet solidly connected ( ) to her
main forces.
1564
2
White’s cut-off stone at the left has only two liberties, and so could be
captured quite easily.
1565
Currently, White’s single stone at the left is the “owner” of the corner area
(△).
This might be of some use in the forthcoming partial semeai.
Next page: Solution
1566
3 A
White massively increases her liberties at the left by descending to 3.

Simultaneously, this move threatens to cut at A, and to capture Black’s
two stones.
1567
4 6
5
The empty triangle of Black 4 occupies a liberty of White’s stones in the

corner, also stopping White from capturing his two stones – for the time
being.
White’s hane at 5 is also an atari, forcing Black to connect at 6.
1568
7
White descends to 7 at the right, stopping Black from connecting his six
stones to the open.
Black’s cut-off group has three liberties left, as many as White’s two
stones at the left. However, the corner is near, so it is likely that White will
have an advantage in this partial semeai.
1569
B A
8
10 9
11
Black attacks White’s group in the corner, starting with the hane of 8.
White blocks at 9, temporarily gaining a third liberty for her stones.
Black’s double-hane of 10 occupies one of these liberties, hoping for a ko

on the left edge.
However, there is no need for White to cut at A (Black will answer at B,

creating a ko shape). She calmly descends to 11, utilising the special
1570
circumstances in the corner.
12
A B
Black is unable to give atari at A in the corner, so he connects at 12

instead.
Black might consider giving atari to the bottom, with a move at B, instead,
again aiming at a ko fight.
1571
14
16 13
15
White’s cut at 13 is a tesuji. As long as this stone is on the board, Black

cannot approach White’s group in the corner from the left.
While Black is busy on the left side, capturing White’s troublemaker there,
with her moves at 14 and 16, White 15 takes a liberty of Black’s group on
the bottom.
1572
17
Eventually, White is one step ahead; her atari at 17 decides the matter.
1573
e
1574
B 12 A
Black 12 gives atari to the lower edge, hoping for a ko.
But White will not give atari at A, allowing Black to capture at B in the
corner, starting a ko fight that is unfavourable for White.
1575
13
White cuts at 13 instead, similar to the main line of this sub-variation.
1576
14
A
15
Black 14 gives atari from below, establishing a ko shape on the left edge.
White does not capture at A, but gives atari at 15 on the bottom instead.
1577
16
Black has no choice but to capture in the ko at the bottom, with 16.
1578
17
White 17 captures in the ko on the left edge.
White has reached a double-ko that is favourable for her, so Black’s group
on the bottom is dead. If Black recaptures on the left, White will return this
favour on the bottom; and vice versa.
1579
ko
ko
Next page: Failure
1580
Black to kill.
1581
1582
1
> 1
2>
> 4
> 3
> 12
○●○●○●○●○
> 1
●○●○●○●○●
> 2
> 3
2
> 2
4
> 4
Next page: Solution
1583
White’s initial move has been too slow, so Black takes his time to play at
2, connecting his stone to the right.
1584
5 3
6 4
White’s cut at 3 comes too late now.
White gives atari from below, with 4, pushing White’s stone towards the
left edge.
After Black’s push at 6, …
1585
8
7 9
… White gives atari at 7, aiming at creating some additional eye space on

the bottom.
Black 8 is a counter-atari.
White 9 captures two black stones, …
1586
12
11
10 13
… forcing Black to throw in at 10.
White tries to escape Black’s atari by turning at 11, but she is stopped by
Black 12.
Capturing Black’s single stone with 13 is fruitless, because White gets

only a false eye here.
1587
14
A B
Black’s atari of 14 also safely connects his corner stones to the left edge.
On the bottom, the points of A and B are miai, so there is no chance for
White to get an eye.
1588
1589
Lessons learned
1590
1591
Problem 015
White to live.
1592
1593
○●○●○●○●○
1
●○●○●○●○●
> 1
> 1
2
> 2
> 2
3
> 3
4
> 4
Next page: Hints
1594
Hints 015
White’s potential eye space (●) is very small, but already divided into two
sections.
And it has open borders everywhere.
1595
?
Black’s formation at the top ( ) is very strong.
White needs an additional move at the top to turn the ?-point into an eye.
1596
?
?
It seems likely that White will have to establish one of her eyes in the ?-
area on the bottom.
1597
Black’s -stones at the right and at the left are positioned only on the
third line, so there might be some room left for White to manoeuvre.
1598
Black’s single stone on the second line is not yet securely connected to his
allies ( ) that are looking forward to reaching that single stone their
helping hand.
1599
Black’s two-stone groups at the right and at the left groups are not yet
solidly connected ( ) to their allies.
This seems to be the only weaknesses in Black’s encirclement.
1600
? ? ? ? ? ?
Taken together, probably some additional potential on the first line (?)
might suddenly arise for creating a living shape?
1601
!! !!
1602
3 3 3 3
Black’s two-stone groups on the third line have only three liberties, so
these are quite vulnerable to an attack.
1603
But be warned: Black’s -stones will be on the board to serve a purpose.
Next page: Solution
1604
Solution 015
1 A
White 1 attaches at the left, aiming at Black’s weaknesses in that area.
The position is symmetrical, so White could also start at the right, with
attaching at A.
White will succeed neither by cutting at the left, nor by descending at the
1605
left.
2
B A
Black’s solid connection at 2 does not give White any chances at the left.
Black might consider extending to A at the right, or descending to B at the

left, instead.
1606
3 A
White descends to 3, capturing Black’s single stone for sure.
White might consider attaching at A instead.
1607
6
4 5 A
Black blocks the left side by descending to 4.
Black might consider blocking at the right, with a move at A, instead.
White 5 captures Black’s single stone on the bottom.
Thereafter, Black 6 destroys White’s potential eye at the top.
If Black blocks at A instead, White lives by occupying the point of 6.
1608
8
9 7
White 7 attaches for a second time, utilising the symmetry of the position.
Black connects at 8 here, forcing White to connect at 9.
1609
10
11
Black 10 blocks the right side, so White has to capture at 11.
1610
13 12
Black cannot stop White from building a second eye on the bottom.
1611
e
e
1612
Black’s descent to 4 blocks the right side.
1613
5
Here, White is able to extend to 5.
1614
A
C 7 8 6 B
Black saves his single stone on the bottom, starting with connecting
underneath at 6.
White 7 is sente, forcing Black to connect at 8.
Black is hindered from giving atari at A, due to White B, so C will become

a white eye.
1615
9
10
11
Black ended in gote on the bottom, so White 9 secures White’s second eye
at the top.
Eventually, White’s descent to 11 secures life for her group.
1616
e
1617
White 3 attaches on the right, utilising the symmetry of the position.
1618
4
Black connects at 4, as he did on the left.
1619
5
White descends to 5, immobilising Black’s single stone on the bottom.
1620
8
7 6
Black forces with 6.
White descends to 7, securely capturing Black’s single stone.
Black 8 destroys White’s potential eye at the top.
1621
12 9
13 11 10 A B
White 9 connects at the miai point.
Black 10 sacrifices two stones, instead of only one, but to no effect here.
The atari of White 11 immobilises Black’s two stones. Black A will be

fruitless, because White B captures three stones for an eye.
Eventually, White 13 builds the second eye for the life of her group.
1622
e
e
1623
Black 2 extends to the right, securely connecting his single stone on the
bottom.
To be continued …
1624
1625
Black descends to 2 at the left, in an attempt to immobilise White’s just-

played stone.
To be continued …
1626
1627
White to live.
1628
1629
1
> 1
> 1
2
○●○●○●○●○
> 2
●○●○●○●○●
> 2
3
> 3
4
> 4
Next page: Hints
1630
White’s currently visible potential eye space (●) contains only one point,
and so will not be enough for live.
1631
? ? ? ?
? ? ?
? ? ? ?
It seems that White has to set her hopes on the ?-area at the left.
1632
?
1633
Black’s pairs of stones at the right ( ) are quite strong.
There is nothing left that White could do in that area.
1634
2 2
Black’s pair of stones at the left has two liberties only.
This makes them very vulnerable, and so the primary target for an attack.
Next page: Solution
1635
White cuts at 3, giving atari to Black’s two stones.
1636
4
5 7 6
Black 4 is a counter-atari.
Black 6 forces White to capture two black stones with 7. Capturing two
stones means only one eye, but …
1637
8
10 9
11
… Black 8 and White 9 are miai for creating a second eye for White.
Eventually, White’s descent to 11 secures an eye on the first line.
1638
e
1639
White to live.
1640
1641
1
> 1
> 1
2
> 2
○●○●○●○●○
> 2
●○●○●○●○●
3
> 3
4
> 4
Next page: Hints
1642
White’s potential eye space (●) is very small, but already divided into two
sections.
And it has open borders everywhere.
1643
?
1644
?
?
It seems likely that White will have to establish one of her eyes in the ?-
area on the bottom.
1645
Black’s groups along the bottom are not yet solidly connected (✕).
This seems to be the main weaknesses in Black’s encirclement.
1646
3 3 3 3
3 3
Black’s groups along the bottom have only three liberties, and so are quite
1647
!! !!
1648
Black’s formation at the left is quite strong.
1649
Black’s -stones at the right are positioned only on the third line, so there
might be some room left for White to manoeuvre.
1650
? ? ?
Probably some additional potential on the first line (?) at the right might
suddenly arise for creating a living shape?
1651
2
White’s single cut-off stone at the left has only two liberties, and so seems
to be securely captured by Black.
However, there might be some life left in it.
Next page: Solution
1652
White descends to 3, taking a decisive liberty from Black’s three stones at

the left.
1653
4
Black 4 stops White from capturing his three stones.
1654
7
6
5
As “usual”, White 5 attaches for a second time at the right.
Black connects at 6, and White 7 makes an eye at the top.
1655
9 13 14
12 8 10 11 15
Black saves his single stone on the bottom, starting with 8, but he cannot
prevent White getting her second eye on the first line.
1656
e
Next page: Failure
1657
White just cut at the left.
Black to kill.
1658
1659
1
○●○●○●○●○
> 1
●○●○●○●○●
> 1
2
> 2
> 2
3
> 3
4
> 4
Next page: Solution
1660
Black is able to extend to 2.
Due to Black , there are no options for White at the left.
1661
3 4 6
5
White descends to 3, in an attempt to start a partial semeai with Black’s

stones on the bottom.
1662
8
10 7
9
White 7 blocks Black’s escape route, but her stones in the corner have one
liberty too few.
White’s stones at the left cannot escape Black’s atari at 10.
1663
1664
Lessons learned
Attacking some opponent stones ( ), aiming at strengthening your

formation elsewhere, will fail if your move does not contain an imminent
second threat that could be used immediately.
1665
Consider the environment very carefully, especially if you are bound to
navigate in a cramped space.
A decisive effect, stopping you from succeeding, might even originate

from unimpressive sources ( ).
Next page: Failure
1666
Black to kill.
1667
1668
1
> 1
○●○●○●○●○
> 1
●○●○●○●○●
2
> 2
> 2
3
> 3
4
> 4
Next page: Solution
1669
Black is able to connect his stone to the right, by extending to 2.
Black’s -stone in the corner makes sure that White will not succeed at
the left.
1670
3
White cuts at 3, but …
1671
6
5
8 7 4
10 9
… her cutting stone is caught in a short ladder. White is dead.
1672
1673
Lessons learned
1674
navigate in a cramped space.
A decisive effect, stopping you from succeeding, might even originate

from unimpressive sources ( ).
1675
Problem 016
White to kill.
1676
1677
○●○●○●○●○
1
●○●○●○●○●
> 1
> 1
> 2
> 1
> 2
> 1
5
> 5
Next page: Hints
1678
Hints 016
Black’s potential eye space is quite bulky.
1679
1680
3
3 3 3 3
3 3
Black’s two groups on the bottom have only three liberties, and so are
quite vulnerable to an attack.
1681
4 4
4
Black’s three-stone group at the top has four liberties, and so will not
become his main concern.
1682
There is a dead five-point eye shape (△) visible inside Black’s formation,
whose central point is still unoccupied.
1683
Another dead five-point eye shape (△) that is also entirely empty.
1684
White might want to consider whether any of the dead eye shapes' central
points (□) will be the vital point of the problem.
1685
In the centre of Black’s formation, there is a line of false eyes ( , ✕)
waiting.
Next page: Solution
1686
Solution 016
B
1
A
White attaches at 1, aiming at Black’s massive weaknesses at the left.
Black must now defend against White’s threat of connecting her stone out,
with a move at A, as well as against the atari of White B that would
capture Black’s two stones, and so kill the entire group.
1687
White will succeed neither by jumping deep into Black’s formation on the
first line, nor by playing hane at the left, nor by playing a jump one point
below, nor by immediately cutting at the right.
Black’s hane at 2 defends against both above mentioned threats.
1688
4 3
White 3 is an atari that Black is forced to answer by connecting at 4.
1689
5
B A
White 5 connects her two previously played stones, resulting in a dead

three-point eye shape inside the long line of points of Black’s potential eye
space.
White must not play atari to the outside, with a move at B, instead.
Please note that White threatens to capture Black’s right-hand stones by a

move at A, but Black is unable to give atari to White’s stones by
1690
occupying this point, gaining an eye at the right.
7 8
Black has no other choice but to give atari from above, with the move at 6.
White gives counter-atari at the right, with her move at 7, sacrificing

another stone.
Black captures four white stones with 8, but will not get a living shape.
1691
9
White cuts at 9, simultaneously giving atari to Black’s group at the right.

Black cannot save these stones, and so is dead.
< Excursus – Under the stones >
1692
Next page: Failure
1693
Black to live.
1694
1695
1
> 1
> 1
> 2
> 1
> 2
> 1
5
○●○●○●○●○
> 5
●○●○●○●○●
Next page: Solution
1696
Black connects at 6, giving atari to one of White’s stones.
1697
7
8
Connecting at 7 does not benefit White.
Black captures with 8, successfully dividing his eye space.
1698
e
e
1699
Lessons learned
1700
Do not be surprised if your opponent actually connects some important
stones, which are in imminent danger of being captured.
1701
Do not let your opponent solidify the borders of their formation, so that
their potential eye space is filled by a long winding line of points (●;
“snake”).
1702
2
2
Next page: Failure
1703
White just jumped deep into Black’s formation.
Black to live.
1704
1705
1
○●○●○●○●○
> 1
●○●○●○●○●
> 1
> 2
> 1
> 2
> 1
Ow 5
> 5
Next page: Solution
1706
Black’s turning move of 2 occupies the vital point of the problem that
White should have taken before.
1707
3
4
Cutting at 3 does not work any longer.
White simply gives atari from the left, by descending to 4. Black has
succeeded in dividing his eye space, and so is alive.
1708
e
1709
Lessons learned
Not every central point ( ) of every dead eye shape ( , △) is necessarily

the vital point of the problem.
1710
have taken.
Next page: Failure
1711
Black to live.
1712
1713
1
> 1
○●○●○●○●○
> 1
●○●○●○●○●
> 2
> 1
> 2
> 1
5
> 5
Next page: Solution
1714
2
A
Black’s turning move of 2 occupies the vital point of the problem that
White should have taken beforehand.
Black might consider blocking at A instead.
1715
3 4
White cannot stop Black from partitioning his eye space. White 3 and
Black 4 are miai.
1716
e
e
e
1717
Black is able to play the atari of 2 on the first line, blocking White’s
further approach to the right.
1718
3
4
White cuts at 3, giving atari to Black’s two stones on the left, as well as on
Black’s just-played stone on the first line.
Black has no other choice but to capture White’s hane with 4.
1719
6
A 5
White 5 gives the atari that worked so well in the sequence of the correct
solution.
But Black will not connect at A here, but at 6 above, giving atari to both of
White’s single stones inside his formation.
1720
7
White captures at the left, with 7, creating a ko shape.
1721
8
9 A B
But there will be no ko, because Black connects his endangered two stones
with 8, simultaneously giving atari.
White is unable to connect at A, due to Black B, and so captures at the left,

with 9.
1722
B A 10
Black 10 partitions his eye space successfully, again giving atari. White is
unable to connect at A, due to Black B.
1723
e
e e
1724
Lessons learned
Do not force your opponent to turn their potential eye space into a long
winding line of points (“snake”) that has sufficient options left for
1725
partitioning.
1726
have taken.
Next page: Failure
1727
White just jumped into Black’s position.
Black to live.
1728
1729
1
>1
>1
> 2
○●○●○●○●○
> 1
●○●○●○●○●
> 2
> 1
5
> 5
Next page: Solution
1730
A
2
Black closes his territory by descending to 2, capturing White’s intruder.
1731
4 3
The cut of White 3 is a desperate attempt, but frustrated by Black’s atari at

4.
1732
e
1733
Black’s turning move of 2 is the safety-first measure here.
1734
3 4
While White tries to save her pivotal stone, by extending to 3, Black

divides his eye space with the move at 4.
1735
e
e
e
1736
Lessons learned
!!
Attacking a hole (!!) in your opponent’s formation from the inside will fail
if your move does not contain an imminent second threat.
1737
Remember that you will need permanent stones on both ends of a line of
false eyes ( , ✕) to make this line work.
1738
have taken.
Next page: Failure
1739
White just cut in the centre of Black’s formation.
Black to live.
1740
1741
1
>1
>1
> 2
> 1
> 2
○●○●○●○●○
> 1
●○●○●○●○●
5
> 5
Next page: Solution
1742
Black’s atari at 2 immobilises White’s intruder, occupying the vital point

of the problem that White should have taken beforehand.
1743
4 3
White’s descent to 3 is stopped by Black 4.
1744
e
e
1745
Lessons learned
1746
have taken.
1747
Problem 017
Black to kill.
1748
1749
○●○●○●○●○
1
●○●○●○●○●
> 1
> 7
> 9
> 15
> 1
2
> 2
3
> 3
> 3
> 5
> 6
> 7
Next page: Hints
1750
Hints 017
sections.
1751
e
1752
? ?
? ? ?
Black will have to stop White from getting another eye in the ?-area on the
bottom.
1753
1754
2 2
2 2
2 2
White’s two groups at the top have only two liberties, and so are very
However, in tsume-go it might not be the best idea to start with an atari to
important opponent stones, as this move will be sente.
1755
There are two lines of false eyes ( , ✕) visible, with their endpoint on the
bottom line shared.
However, a line of false eyes needs permanent stones at both of its end
points to make it work.
1756
Black’s stones at the right and at the left are positioned only on the third
line ( ).
This might give White some scope for action, …
1757
? ?
… either at the right, aiming at creating an eye in the ?-area on the bottom
line there, …
1758
? ?
or at the left (?), utilising the fact that this problem is symmetrical.
Next page: Solution
1759
Solution 017
Black 1 occupies the point of symmetry on the first line.
Black will succeed neither by jumping down to the first line, nor by
playing atari to White’s two stones at the right (we will not show the atari
at the left explicitly, due to the symmetry of the problem).
1760
A
2
White gives atari with her move at 2.
1761
3
Black cannot save his stone that is in atari, so he descends to 3 at the right.
Black must not give atari at the left, or descend on the other side, instead.
1762
6
4 5
White 4 plays hane at the left, aiming at maximising her potential eye
space there.
Black 5 is an atari that also cuts on the bottom.
White is forced to capture at 6.
1763
7
Finally, Black’s extension to 7 is the fatal blow, capturing White’s single

stone at the right.
1764
1765
White 2 is a hane to the right, aiming at creating her second eye in that
area.
To be continued …
1766
Next page: Failure
1767
1768
1769
1
> 1
> 7
> 9
> 15
> 1
2
> 2
3
○●○●○●○●○
> 3
●○●○●○●○●
> 3
> 5
> 6
> 7
Next page: Solution
1770
1771
6 7
5
Black has no other choice but to defend his just-played stone, by playing
the diagonal connection at 5.
White 6 tries to enlarge her potential eye space at the right, but Black
blocks her further progress with the move at 7.
Currently, White’s eye on the bottom is only a false one ( , ✕).

However, Black will have to prove that he is able to keep permanent
1772
stones on both ends of that line of false eyes.
White captures at 8, starting a ko fight for the life of her group.
1773
ko
This is a direct ko, and Black has to find the first valid ko threat.
1774
e
○●○●○●○●○●○
1775
1776
Lessons learned
1777
1778
Next page: Failure
1779
White to live.
1780
1781
1
> 1
> 7
> 9
> 15
> 1
2
> 2
3
> 3
○●○●○●○●○
> 3
●○●○●○●○●
> 5
> 6
> 7
Next page: Solution
1782
White 4 enlarges her potential eye space at the right, creating sufficient
options to build a second eye on the bottom.
1783
6
5 A
Black gives atari at 5.
Black might consider blocking at the right, with a move at A, instead.
White is forced to connect at 6, capturing Black’s single stone.
1784
C 7
8 A B
Black’s block at the right, with his move at 7, comes too late now.
Black might consider connecting at 8 instead.
White captures at the left, with the move at 8. She now is the owner of the
points of A and B, so C is a real eye.
1785
e
1786
Black 7 saves his endangered stone at the left, but a line of false eyes will
not arise.
1787
8
White extends to 8, bringing her group to life.
1788
9
10
Black is unable to destroy White’s eyes on the bottom.
1789
e
e
e
1790
1791
6
A
White solidly connects at 6, preventing Black’s atari at this point.
White might consider capturing immediately at A.
1792
8 7
Black descends to 7 at the right, forcing White to capture at the left, with
the move at 8.
1793
10
9
The atari of Black 9 is answered by the connection of White 10. White

keeps two eyes for the life of her group.
1794
e
1795
Variation for White 6 (Black 5)
White 6 captures immediately for the life of her group, but this move will
include a small territorial loss.
1796
8
7
Black 7 is the “usual” atari at the left.
1797
11 12 10 9
Black closes the borders of his territory in sente, with 9 at the right and
with 11 at the left.
White has got a living shape, but lost a few endgame points.
1798
e
1799
Lessons learned
Your attack might fail if your just played move serves only one purpose.
If there is no second threat included that could be applied immediately,

your opponent might be free to play elsewhere.
1800
1801
have taken.
1802
Black to kill.
1803
1804
1
> 1
> 7
> 9
> 15
> 1
2
○●○●○●○●○
> 2
●○●○●○●○●
3
> 3
> 3
> 5
> 6
> 7
Next page: Hints
1805
sections.
1806
e
1807
? ?
? ? ? ?
Black will have to stop White from getting another eye in the ?-area on the
bottom.
1808
1809
2 2
2 3
2 3
3 3
White’s groups in the top left has only two liberties, and so is very
All other white groups have only three liberties, and so are also quite
vulnerable.
However, in tsume-go it might not be the best idea to start with an atari to
important opponent stones, as this move will be sente.
1810
There are two lines of false eyes ( , ✕) visible, with their endpoint on the
bottom line shared.
However, a line of false eyes needs permanent stones at both of its end
points to make it work.
1811
2
Black’s single stone on the first line has only two liberties, and so is in
1812
Black’s stones at the right and at the left are positioned only on the third
line ( ).
This might give White some scope for action, so Black has to be on his
guard.
Next page: Solution
1813
1814
4
White connects with 4.
1815
A
5
Black extends to 5 now.
This move is a surprising tesuji. There is no need for Black to defend the
cutting point of A in a direct manner.
1816
8 6
7
White cuts at 6.
Black connects at 7. His four stones on the bottom have three liberties, but
White’s single stone at the left has only one.
White extends to 8, increasing her number of liberties at the left.
1817
C
B 9
A 10 11
Black fights back at the right, by blocking with 9.
White descends to 10, but will suffer from her massive shortage of
liberties.
If she plays at A instead, Black will connect to the right, with a move at
10.
Black 11 gives atari to White’s two stones, and White is unable to connect
1818
at B, due to Black C.
Next page: Failure
1819
Black just jumped down to the bottom at the left.
1820
1821
1
○●○●○●○●○
> 1
●○●○●○●○●
> 7
> 9
> 15
> 1
2
> 2
3
> 3
> 3
> 5
> 6
> 7
Next page: Solution
1822
White 2 is a hane to the right, and played in an attempt to enlarge her

1823
3
4
Black 3 blocks White’s further attempts at the right.
White 4 creates a second eye, but for the time being only.
1824
6
5
Black gives the “usual” atari at 5, and White connects at 6.
1825
A 7
Black’s decent to 7 at the right is a forcing move that will benefit Black in
the ko fight to come.
This descent will not become an internal ko threat for Black, so is does not
make any sense to keep this move in reserve for later.
However, Black must not start the ko too early, by playing at A instead.
1826
9 8
White connects at 8, after which Black 9 gives atari.
1827
10
White captures Black’s just-played stone with 10, starting the ko fight for
the life of her group.
1828
ko
1829
e
e
e
○●○●○●○●○●○
1830
11 12
13
We will now explain the advantage of Black’s earlier forcing exchange (

, ) at the right.
Black 13 recaptures the ko on the bottom.
1831
14 15
White’s atari at 14 at the left is not a valid internal ko threat any more.
Black simply captures White’s three stones at the right, with his move at
15.
1832
16
White is able to capture at 16.
1833
ko
However, this move does not result in life for White’s group. The ko
simply has changed place.
1834
18 19
17
Black connects at 17, after which White extends to 18 at the left.
Black recaptures the ko with 19.
1835
20
21
Black ignores White’s ko threat of 20 and ends the ko fight by capturing

White’s main group, with his move at 21.
1836
1837
Lessons learned
Your attack might fail if your just played move ( ) serves only one
purpose.

your opponent might be free to play elsewhere.
1838
Next page: Failure
1839
Black just attacked White’s potential eye on the bottom.
1840
1841
1
> 1
○●○●○●○●○
> 7
●○●○●○●○●
> 9
> 15
> 1
2
> 2
3
> 3
> 3
> 5
> 6
> 7
Next page: Solution
1842
White captures Black’s just-played stone, with 8, and so starts the ko fight
for the life of her group.
1843
ko
This ko is disadvantageous for Black. Not only has he to find the first valid
ko threat, but White also has an internal ko threat at her hands.
1844
e
e
e
○●○●○●○●○●○
1845
9 10
11 A
Please note that Black’s descent to A at the right is not a valid ko threat.
Black recaptures the ko with 11.
1846
13 12
A
White gives atari at 12, as an internal ko threat, and Black is unable to

connect at A to end the ko fight.
He must capture at 13 instead.
1847
14
1848
15 16
17 A
Black 15 is Black’s second valid ko threat.
Even now, Black’s descent to A is not a valid ko threat.
1849
18
19
Black ignores White’s ko threat of 18, and connects at 19, finishing the ko
fight.
Please note that Black had to invest two valid ko threats more than White
to win the ko, instead of only one.
1850
1851
15
Black’s descent to 15 at the right is not a valid ko threat.
1852
16
White captures at the left, with her move at 16.
1853
18 17
Black 17 gives atari at the right, turning one of White’s potential eyes into
a false one.
White 18 captures another black stone at the left.
1854
19
Black 19 captures at the right, destroying another potential white eye.
1855
20
But White has sufficient options left. She calmly connect at 10 and is
alive.
1856
e
1857
Black’s descent to 9 at the right is not a valid ko threat.
1858
10
White simply captures at 10, ending the ko fight.
1859
A 12
11
Black’s atari at 11 does not do any harm.
White connects at 12, securing at least two eyes for her group.
Please note that capturing Black’s single stone at the left is not mandatory
for keeping White’s living shape. She is the owner of the point of A, that’s
enough.
1860
e
1861
Lessons learned
ko
Do not start a ko fight too early.
You might need more valid ko threats to win than really necessary.
1862
Before starting a ko fight, consider carefully whether there might be issues
available that could be addressed by you ( , ✕) in order to weaken your
opponent’s position.
Especially if your opponent is able to capture the ko first.
Next page: Failure
1863
1864
1865
1
> 1
7>
> 9
> 15
○●○●○●○●○
> 1
●○●○●○●○●
2
> 2
3
> 3
> 3
> 5
> 6
> 7
Next page: Solution
1866
White captures Black’s single stone inside her formation with 2.
1867
3
Black saves his just-played stone with the diagonal connection at 3.
1868
5 4
7 8 6
White 4 is a hane to the right, and the “usual” starting point for setting the
scene for a ko fight.
After White’s connection at 8, …
1869
9 10
… Black has to give atari at 9 in order to stop White from getting a sure
eye on the bottom.
White captures with 10, finally opening the ko fight for the life of her
group.
1870
ko
1871
e
○●○●○●○●○●○
1872
1873
Lessons learned
1874
1875
1876
Problem 018
White to live.
1877
1878
○●○●○●○●○
1
●○●○●○●○●
> 1
> 2
> 2
> 3
> 4
> 3
> 3
> 5
> 3
> 1
> 1
> 5
> 1
> 3
> 3
> 3
3
> 3
> 5
> 6
> 6
> 7
> 5
> 5
> 6
> 7
> 3
> 7
> 3
> 5
> 3
> 3
1879
> 3
> 3
> 5
> 3
4
> 4
> 4
Next page: Hints
1880
Hints 018
White’s potential eye space (●) consists of a bulky square of empty points.
1881
White’s partial groups are not yet solidly connected (^'Xw), leaving
1882
3 3 3
3 3
3 3
All of White’s groups have only three liberties, several of which are
shared.
This means that White’s formation is quite vulnerable to an attack and

needs reinforcement.
1883
There are two lines of false eyes ( , ✕) visible in the centre of White’s
formation, with their end points shared.
Please note that Black needs a permanent stone on both ends of these lines
to make them work.
1884
!! !!
On the bottom line, there are two holes (!!) in White’s encirclement.
1885
Black has strong formations ( ) on both sides, looking forward to a
friendly stone on one of the ◇-points on the first line.
Next page: Solution
1886
Solution 018
White 1 occupies the central point of this position, leaving behind a

“circle” of eight empty points (●) around. This means that the “snake”
bites its own tail here.
White will succeed neither by playing on the point above, nor by playing
1887
on the point below, nor by playing a turning move at the left, nor by
descending at the left (due to the symmetry of the position, these last two
options mirrored at the right will not be explained explicitly).
Black answers with the hane of 2. This move takes White’s two stones
above an important liberty, and so aims at creating a shortage of liberties
on White’s side.
1888
We will not examine other options for Black’s first move (neither mirrored
ones), because these – in general – will result in a change in the order of
moves of sequences that will be shown in great detail below.
To be continued …
1889
White to live.
1890
1891
1
> 1
> 2
> 2
> 3
> 4
> 3
> 3
> 5
> 3
> 1
> 1
> 5
> 1
> 3
> 3
> 3
○●○●○●○●○
3
●○●○●○●○●
> 3
> 5
> 6
> 6
> 7
> 5
> 5
> 6
> 7
> 3
> 7
> 3
> 5
> 3
> 3
1892
> 3
> 3
> 5
> 3
4
> 4
> 4
Next page: Hints
1893
White’s potential eye space (●) consists of a long winding line of empty
points.
1894
1895
3 3 3
3 2
3 2
White’s two stones at the right have only two liberties, and so are very
White’s two other groups at the outskirts of her formation have only three
liberties, and so are also quite vulnerable.
Some of these liberties are shared, making the issue even more difficult for
White.
1896
4
White’s central stone has four liberties, and will not become the primary
target for an attack.
1897
!! !!
There are still two holes (!!) in White’s encirclement, one at the right, the
other one at the left.
1898
Black has strong formations ( ) on both sides, looking forward to a
friendly stone on one of the ◇-points on the first line.
Next page: Solution
1899
A 3
White descends to 3 on the first line, again choosing a point that is

positioned on the line of symmetry of this position.
White might consider descending at the left, with a move at A, instead.

However, this move will result in a small loss for her.
1900
But White will succeed neither by giving atari at the right, nor by playing a
diagonal move on the first line at the left, nor by connecting solidly on the
second line at the right, nor by connecting solidly in the top right, nor by
connecting in the centre, nor by connecting solidly in the top left, nor by
connecting on the second line at the left.
B A
Black plays a second hane on the other side, with his move at 4. Now there
are two pairs of white stones that have only two liberties.
1901
Black might consider cutting at the right, with a move at A, or cutting at
the left, with a move at B, instead.
White 5 is her third move on the line of symmetry.
1902
7
6
B A
Black’s atari at 6 does not result in destroying White’s potential eye at the
left.
White connects at 7, and Black is unable to connect at A, due to White B.
1903
9
8
C A B
Playing this atari to the other side, with Black 8 here, will not work better
than before.
White connects at 9, and again the point of A is taboo for Black, due to
White B.
Please note the importance of White’s liberty at C. It guarantees that White

will not suffer from a shortage of liberties, stopping her from giving atari
1904
at 9.
e e
1905
Variation for Black 4(I)
Black 4 cuts at the right, simultaneously giving atari to White’s two stones.
1906
A 7
5
6
White’s connection at 5 is forced.
Black’s hane of 6 at the left hopes for a white mistake.
But White calmly connects at 7, capturing Black’s single stone. This move
prevents a black double-atari at the point of A.
1907
9
8
Black is unable to destroy White’s second eye at the left.
1908
e e
1909
Variation for Black 4(II)
Black 4 cuts at the left. This time, there is no immediate atari involved.
1910
5 A
White calmly connects on the line of symmetry, with her move at 5.
This move frustrates Black’s hopes for a double-atari at A.
1911
7
6
White’s second eye at the right cannot be taken by Black, as we have seen
already. White is alive with two eyes.
1912
e e
1913
Solution 018 (semi-correct)
White can also live by descending to 3.
However, this sub-variation will include a territorial loss for White,

compared with the main line of the correct solution above, so it can be
called “semi-correct” only.
1914
I do not like to call White’s descent a “mistake”. In a real game, this
descent at the left might come easier to mind than the correct descent in
the centre of White’s formation.
Black 4 cuts at the left, as usual aiming at a shortage of liberties on

White’s side.
To be continued …
1915
1916
Problem 018 (semi-correct – follow-up)
White to live.
1917
1918
1
> 1
> 2
> 2
> 3
> 4
> 3
> 3
> 5
> 3
> 1
> 1
> 5
> 1
> 3
> 3
> 3
3
○●○●○●○●○
> 3
●○●○●○●○●
> 5
> 6
> 6
> 7
> 5
> 5
> 6
> 7
> 3
> 7
> 3
> 5
> 3
> 3
1919
> 3
> 3
> 5
> 3
4
> 4
> 4
Next page: Hints
1920
Hints 018 (semi-correct – follow-up)
White’s potential eye space (●) consists of a long winding line of empty
points.
1921
1922
2 2 2
2
2
White’s two groups at the top and at the right have only two liberties, one
of which is shared.
These two groups are very vulnerable to an attack.
1923
3
3 4
3
White’s group at the left has three liberties, her stone in the centre has four
liberties.
These two groups might not be the primary targets for an attack.
1924
In the top left, there is a dead eye shape ( , △) visible, whose central
point is already occupied.
1925
!!
On the bottom right, there is still a hole (!!) in White’s formation.
1926
Black’s formations at the right ( ) is quite strong looking forward to a
friendly stone on the ◇-point on the first line.
1927
Black might be hindered by the fact that his stone on the first line is not yet
solidly connected to the outside ( ).
Next page: Solution
1928
Solution 018 (semi-correct – follow-up)
White 5 connects at the line of symmetry, and is alive now.
White will succeed neither by connecting below Black’s single stone, nor
by connecting in the upper right, nor by connecting solidly at the right.
1929
6
A
Black cannot hope to kill White any longer, so he gives atari at 6, aiming
at capturing White’s two stones at the right.
Jumping to A instead will not kill White either, but include a territorial
loss for Black.
1930
8
White descends to 7, saving her main forces.
White must not hastily connect at 8 instead.
Black 8 captures two white stones in sente.
1931
9
White 9 divides her eye space successfully.
1932
e
1933
Black 6 jumps to the central point on the first line.
1934
B
7
A C
White must be on her guard and calmly connect at 7.
Hastily giving atari at A instead would be fatal.
Black would answer with the atari at 7, and White would be unable to
connect at B, due to her shortage of liberties.
Capturing at C thereafter would not help, because Black B simply captured

White’s two stones at the right, leaving White’s remaining forces at the
1935
left with only one eye.
9 8 A
Black 8 and White 9 are miai. Black cannot stop White from getting two
eyes.
Capturing or connecting at A remains as an endgame issue.
1936
e e
Next page: Failure
1937
018 Problem (semi-correct – follow-up – failure I)
White just played atari at the right.
1938
1939
1
> 1
> 2
> 2
> 3
> 4
> 3
> 3
> 5
> 3
> 1
> 1
> 5
> 1
> 3
> 3
> 3
3
> 3
>5
> 6
> 6
> 7
> 5
> 5
> 6
○●○●○●○●○
> 7
●○●○●○●○●
> 3
> 7
> 3
> 5
> 3
> 3
1940
> 3
> 3
> 5
> 3
4
> 4
> 4
Next page: Solution
1941
018 Solution (semi-correct – follow-up – failure I)
Black 8 gives counter-atari to White’s large group.
1942
9
White is forced to capture at 9, thereafter fighting an uncalled-for ko for

the life of her group.
1943
ko
This is a direct ko. Black has to look for the first valid ko threat.
1944
e e
○●○●○●○●○●○
1945
1946
Lessons learned
1947
Be aware that your opponent will think twice before connecting.
1948
2 2 2
2 2 2
2 2
These might become the source of a counter-attack by your opponent.
1949
Consider carefully whether you will be able to attack an opponent’s zigzag
line of stones ( , ✕) from its end.
1950
ko
Do not allow your opponent to establish a ko shape for attack.
1951
have taken.
Next page: Failure
1952
018 Problem (semi-correct – follow-up – failure II)
White just connected solidly at the left of her formation.
Black to kill.
1953
1954
1
> 1
> 2
> 2
> 3
> 4
> 3
> 3
> 5
> 3
> 1
> 1
> 5
> 1
> 3
> 3
> 3
> 3
3
○●○●○●○●○
> 5
●○●○●○●○●
> 6
> 6
> 7
> 5
> 5
> 6
> 7
> 3
> 7
> 3
> 5
> 3
> 3
1955
> 3
> 3
> 5
> 3
4
> 4
> 4
Next page: Solution
1956
018 Solution (semi-correct – follow-up – failure II)
Black 6 jumps to the central point on the first line.
Black will succeed neither by giving double-atari at the right, nor by

extending on the first line.
1957
B
7
A
White 7 connects on the second line. However, the points of A and B are
not miai here.
White might consider capturing at B instead.
1958
8 9
Black 8 is an atari. White has no time to occupy the miai point of A.
But capturing at 9 does not help either.
1959
10
Black connects at 10 and leads his stones into the open. White has only
one eye, and so is dead.
1960
1961
White 7 captures at the left.
1962
8
Black’s atari at 8 destroys White’s potential second eye at the right.
1963
9
10
Connecting and giving atari at 9 does not benefit White.
Black has sufficient liberties on the bottom to successfully connect at 10.
1964
1965
Lessons learned
3
3 4
3
Avoid further strengthening your already strong stones.
1966
2 2 2
2
2
Consider strengthening some of your weak stones instead.
1967
!!
Consider carefully whether playing inside your formation will also serve to
defend a remaining hole in your encirclement.
Especially if you are already quite short of points that could become eye
space.
1968
Avoid leaving a dead eye shape ( , △) behind, whose central point is still
unoccupied, and could be taken by your opponent in sente.
1969
line of stones ( , ✕) successfully.
Next page: Failure
1970
018 Problem (semi-correct – follow-up – failure III)
Black just played double-atari at the right.
White to live.
1971
1972
1
> 1
> 2
> 2
> 3
> 4
> 3
> 3
> 5
> 3
> 1
> 1
> 5
> 1
> 3
> 3
> 3
3
> 3
> 5
○●○●○●○●○
> 6
●○●○●○●○●
> 6
> 7
> 5
> 5
> 6
> 7
> 3
> 7
> 3
> 5
> 3
> 3
1973
> 3
> 3
> 5
> 3
4
> 4
> 4
Next page: Solution
1974
018 Solution (semi-correct – follow-up – failure III)
White 7 connects her three stones above, also capturing Black’s single
stone at the left.
1975
8
Black is able to capture two white stones with his move at 8.
1976
9
But he cannot stop White’s group from getting a living shape by

descending to 9.
1977
e
1978
Lessons learned
Think twice before giving atari to opponent stones (or even double-atari as
here)!
1979
Do not be surprised, if your opponent actually connects one of their groups
that is caught in a double-atari and lets you capture the other one.
You might kill only some unimportant stones, but let the bigger fish
bounce of the hook.
1980
2
Next page: Failure
1981
018 Problem (semi-correct – follow-up – failure IV)
Black just pushed on the first line from the right.
White to live.
1982
1983
1
> 1
> 2
> 2
> 3
> 4
> 3
> 3
> 5
> 3
> 1
> 1
> 5
> 1
> 3
> 3
> 3
3
> 3
>5
> 6
○●○●○●○●○
> 6
●○●○●○●○●
> 7
> 5
> 5
> 6
> 7
> 3
> 7
> 3
> 5
> 3
> 3
1984
> 3
> 3
> 5
> 3
4
> 4
> 4
Next page: Solution
1985
018 Solution (semi-correct – follow-up – failure IV)
White blocks at 7, securing an eye on the first line.
White could also connect at A immediately, which will result in a change

in the order of moves.
1986
9 A
8
Black’s atari at 8 cannot destroy White’s eye shape.
White connects her three stones with her move at 9.
Capturing or connecting two white stones with a move at A remains as an

endgame issue.
1987
e
1988
Lessons learned
Playing from the outside might not be sufficient to reduce your opponent’s
potential eye space (●) decisively.
Especially if that potential eye space is already divided into two sections,
and your attack addresses only one of these.
1989
Not entirely destroying a section of an already divided potential eye space,
but leaving a point (●) behind, might be too gentle to your opponent.
1990
have taken.
Next page: Failure
1991
018 Problem (semi-correct – follow-up – failure V)
White just connected solidly in the upper right.
Black to kill.
1992
1993
1
> 1
> 2
> 2
> 3
> 4
> 3
> 3
> 5
> 3
> 1
> 1
> 5
> 1
> 3
> 3
> 3
3
> 3
>5
> 6
> 6
> 7
○●○●○●○●○
> 5
●○●○●○●○●
> 5
> 6
> 7
> 3
> 7
> 3
> 5
> 3
> 3
1994
> 3
> 3
> 5
> 3
4
> 4
> 4
Next page: Solution
1995
018 Solution (semi-correct – follow-up – failure V)
B
A 6
Black 6 solidly extends into White’s position on the bottom.
Black must refrain from jumping to A. White would throw in at 6, forcing

Black to start an unnecessary ko fight by capturing at B.
1996
8
7
White 7 and Black 8 are miai. White cannot get two eyes, and so is dead.
1997
1998
Lessons learned
!!
Consider carefully whether playing inside your formation will also serve
do defend a remaining hole in your encirclement.
space.
1999
When defending, do not leave a dead eye shape ( , △) inside your
formation behind, whose central point is already occupied by your
opponent.
Next page: Failure
2000
018 Problem (semi-correct – follow-up – failure VI)
Black to kill.
2001
2002
1
> 1
> 2
> 2
> 3
> 4
> 3
> 3
> 5
> 3
> 1
> 1
> 5
> 1
> 3
> 3
> 3
3
> 3
>5
> 6
> 6
> 7
> 5
○●○●○●○●○
> 5
●○●○●○●○●
> 6
> 7
> 3
> 7
> 3
> 5
> 3
> 3
2003
> 3
> 3
> 5
> 3
4
> 4
> 4
Next page: Solution
2004
018 Solution (semi-correct – follow-up – failure VI)
Black 6 gives atari to White’s three stones above.
2005
7
2006
9 8
Black 8 reduces White’s potential eye space on the bottom.
The block of White 9 and …
2007
10
11
… Black’s atari at 10 are miai.
White 11 captures two black stones on the first line, but …
2008
12
… for a false eye only. Black 12 finally kills White, whose eye space is
filled with a dead eye shape.
2009
2010
Lessons learned
2 2 2
When consolidating your formation in one place, mind your remaining

weaknesses.
2011
2012
When defending, do not leave a dead eye shape ( , △) inside your
formation behind, whose central point is already occupied by your
opponent.
2013
have taken.
Next page: Failure
2014
018 Problem (follow-up – failure I)
White just blocked at the right.
Black to kill.
2015
2016
1
> 1
> 2
> 2
> 3
> 4
> 3
> 3
> 5
> 3
> 1
> 1
> 5
> 1
> 3
> 3
> 3
3
> 3
>5
> 6
> 6
> 7
> 5
> 5
> 6
> 7
○●○●○●○●○
> 3
●○●○●○●○●
> 7
> 3
> 5
> 3
> 3
2017
> 3
> 3
> 5
> 3
4
> 4
> 4
Next page: Solution
2018
018 Solution (follow-up – failure I)
Black cuts at the right with 4, simultaneously giving atari to White’s two
stones.
2019
5
6 A
Capturing at A instead will not make a difference.
Black 6 is the second hane, this time played at the left.
2020
8
A
7
White blocks at 7, in an attempt to maximise her potential eye space.
Connecting at A instead will not help either.
But Black’s cut at 8 is also a double-atari, so White is helpless. She cannot

get more than one eye any longer.
2021
9
White 9 and …
2022
10
… Black 10 are miai.
2023
2024
White 7 connects on the second line.
2025
9 8
Black 8 gives atari, forcing White to capture with 9.
2026
10
Black 10 extends on the first line, destroying White’s potential eye on the
bottom.
2027
2028
Lessons learned
!! !!
When closing one of two holes in your encirclement, do not forget the
other one (!!).
2029
3 3 3
3 2
3 2
2
Mind your remaining weaknesses while defending.
2030
Avoid leaving a dead eye shape (△) behind, whose central point is still
Next page: Failure
2031
018 Problem (follow-up – failure II)
White just played a diagonal move on the first line at the left.
Black to kill.
2032
2033
1
> 1
> 2
> 2
> 3
> 4
> 3
> 3
> 5
> 3
> 1
> 1
> 5
> 1
> 3
> 3
> 3
3
> 3
> 5
> 6
> 6
> 7
> 5
> 5
> 6
> 7
> 3
> 7
○●○●○●○●○
> 3
●○●○●○●○●
> 5
> 3
> 3
2034
> 3
> 3
> 5
> 3
4
> 4
> 4
Next page: Solution
2035
018 Solution (follow-up – failure II)
Black 4 cuts at the left.
2036
A 5
White connects at 5, preventing a double-atari by Black.
White might consider playing at A instead.
Black 6 extends into White’s potential eye space on the bottom, destroying
White’s potential eye(s) there.
White has only one eye at the left, and so is dead.
2037
2038
Simply connecting at the line of symmetry will not lead to success.
2039
6
Black 6 gives atari to White’s two stones at the right.
2040
7
A 8
The liberty at A enables Black to successfully connect at 8.
2041
2042
Lessons learned
!! !!
When defending one of two holes in your encirclement, do not forget the
other one (!!).
2043
3 3 3
2
2
2044
unoccupied.
Next page: Failure
2045
018 Problem (follow-up – failure IV)
Black to kill.
2046
2047
1
> 1
> 2
> 2
> 3
> 4
> 3
> 3
> 5
> 3
> 1
> 1
> 5
> 1
> 3
> 3
> 3
3
> 3
> 5
> 6
> 6
> 7
> 5
> 5
> 6
> 7
> 3
> 7
> 3
> 5
○●○●○●○●○
> 3
●○●○●○●○●
> 3
2048
> 3
> 3
> 5
> 3
4
> 4
> 4
Next page: Solution
2049
018 Solution (follow-up – failure IV)
Black 4 is the second hane, played at the left.
2050
6
A
7 5
White’s block at 5 tries to keep as much potential eye space as possible.
Black 6 cuts at the left, simultaneously giving atari to White’s two stones.
White 7 captures Black’s single stone at the left.
Connecting at A instead will not make a difference.
2051
8 9
10
Black 8 gives atari to White’s three stones above, forcing White to connect
at 9.
Black’s extension to 10 is the final blow. White has only one eye, and so is
dead.
2052
2053
Lessons learned
!! !!
defend the remaining holes (!!) in your encirclement.
space.
2054
3 3 3
3
3
2055
Next page: Failure
2056
018 Problem (follow-up – failure V)
White just connected solidly on the third line.
Black to kill.
2057
2058
1
> 1
> 2
> 2
> 3
> 4
> 3
> 3
> 5
> 3
> 1
> 1
> 5
> 1
> 3
> 3
> 3
3
> 3
> 5
> 6
> 6
> 7
> 5
> 5
> 6
> 7
> 3
> 7
> 3
> 5
> 3
○●○●○●○●○
> 3
●○●○●○●○●
2059
> 3
> 3
> 5
> 3
4
> 4
> 4
Next page: Solution
2060
018 Solution (follow-up – failure VI)
Black 4 cuts at the left, threatening to capture White’s two stones there.
2061
5
6
White defends by connecting at 5.
Black' extension to 6 destroys White’s potential eye space on the bottom.
2062
8 7
The remaining space is not large enough for building an eye.
2063
2064
Lessons learned
!! !!
space.
2065
3
3
2066
Dividing your potential eye space into two sections might be fruitless, if
your opponent will be able to destroy one of these quite easily.
2067
Next page: Failure
2068
018 Problem (follow-up – failure VI)
White just connected solidly in the centre of her formation.
Black to kill.
2069
2070
1
> 1
> 2
> 2
> 3
> 4
> 3
> 3
> 5
> 3
> 1
> 1
> 5
> 1
> 3
> 3
> 3
3
> 3
> 5
> 6
> 6
> 7
> 5
> 5
> 6
> 7
> 3
> 7
> 3
> 5
> 3
> 3
○●○●○●○●○
> 3
2071
●○●○●○●○●
> 3
> 5
> 3
4
> 4
> 4
Next page: Solution
2072
Black 4 gives atari to White’s two stones at the right.
2073
5
7 6 8
Black also connects at 6.
White’s descent to 7 comes too late now.
Black simply connects at 8, and White is dead.
2074
10
9
2075
2076
Lessons learned
!! !!
space.
2077
2
2
2078
2079
unoccupied.
Next page: Failure
2080
018 Problem (follow-up – failure VII)
White just connected solidly in the top left.
Black to kill.
2081
2082
1
> 1
> 2
> 2
> 3
> 4
> 3
> 3
> 5
> 3
> 1
> 1
> 5
> 1
> 3
> 3
> 3
3
> 3
> 5
> 6
> 6
> 7
> 5
> 5
> 6
> 7
> 3
> 7
> 3
> 5
> 3
> 3
> 3
○●○●○●○●○
2083
> 3
●○●○●○●○●
> 5
> 3
4
> 4
> 4
Next page: Solution
2084
018 Solution (follow-up – failure VII)
Black’s placement of 4 threatens to connect to either side.
2085
5 A
White descends to 5, closing Black’s escape route to the left.
White might consider blocking at the right, with a move at A, instead.
2086
7
6 8
But Black successfully connects to the right, with his moves at 6 and 7.
White has only one eye, and so is dead.
2087
2088
White’s atari of 5 at the right will not work either.
2089
6
A
7
Black cuts at 6, forcing White to capture at 7 (or to connect at A instead).
2090
8
Black 8 leads his initially played stone into the open, killing White.
2091
2092
Lessons learned
!! !!
space.
2093
2
2
2094
2095
Next page: Failure
2096
018 Problem (follow-up – failure VIII)
Black to kill.
2097
2098
1
> 1
> 2
> 2
> 3
> 4
> 3
> 3
> 5
> 3
> 1
> 1
> 5
> 1
> 3
> 3
> 3
3
> 3
> 5
> 6
> 6
> 7
> 5
> 5
> 6
> 7
> 3
> 7
> 3
> 5
> 3
> 3
> 3
> 3
2099
> 5
○●○●○●○●○
> 3
●○●○●○●○●
4
> 4
> 4
Next page: Solution
2100
018 Solution (follow-up – failure VIII)
Black extends to 4, decisively reducing White’s potential eye space.
2101
6
5
2102
8 7 A
White 7 and Black 8 are miai, too.
Capturing two black stones, with White A, will be fruitless, because this
will result in only a false eye.
2103
2104
Lessons learned
!! !!
space.
2105
3 3 3
2
2
2106
unoccupied.
Next page: Failure
2107
White just played in the centre of her formation on the third line.
Black to kill.
2108
2109
1
○●○●○●○●○
> 1
●○●○●○●○●
> 2
> 2
> 3
> 4
> 3
> 3
> 5
> 3
> 1
> 1
> 5
> 1
> 3
> 3
> 3
3
> 3
> 5
> 6
> 6
> 7
> 5
> 5
> 6
> 7
> 3
> 7
> 3
> 5
> 3
> 3
2110
> 3
> 3
> 5
> 3
4
> 4
> 4
Next page: Solution
2111
Black attaches at 2, threatening to capture White’s two stones.
Black will succeed neither by attaching in the centre of White’s formation,

nor by playing hane at the left.
As usual, we will not show the mirrored sequences in detail.
2112
3
C
A B
White might consider playing hane at A, or descending to B at the right, or

descending to C in the centre, instead.
2113
5
7 6 4 8
Black connects his pivotal stone out, starting with his move at 4.
2114
10
9
Eventually, White 9 and Black 10 are miai. White has got only one eye,
and so is dead.
2115
2116
White’s hane of 3 is played in an attempt to stop Black’s pivotal stone

from connecting into the open.
2117
6
4 5
Black 4 is an atari that White must answer at 5.
Black 6 connects inside White’s formation.
2118
B A
7
8
White 7 tries to partition her eye space, but comes too late.
Black descends to 8, giving atari to White’s four stones at the right. White
is unable to connect at A, due to Black B, and so is dead.
2119
2120
White’s descent to 3 is another idea to capture Black’s troublemaker inside

her formation.
2121
4
Black extends to 4, again aiming at White’s shortage of liberties.
2122
A
5
White’s turning move at 5 is a desperate attempt to survive Black’s attack.
White might consider connecting at A instead.
2123
7 6
However, Black has sufficient liberties to give atari at 6.
White’s group at the left is caught in a small ladder.
2124
2125
White 5 solidly connects in the top right.
2126
7
6
8
Black leads his stones out, with the combination of 6 and 8.
2127
10 9 A
White tries the throw-in of 9, but Black calmly connects at 10.
A further White’s atari at A is fruitless; Black will not respond. White

would capture only a dead eye shape.
2128
2129
Variation for White 3 (III)
2130
4
Black 4 gives atari to White’s two stones at the right, connecting his
pivotal stone out.
2131
5
10
9 7 6 8
After White’s forcing moves at 5 and at 7, White 9 and Black 10 are miai.
2132
2133
Lessons learned
Not every point of every line of symmetry ( , △) is always a vital point

2134
!! !!
space.
2135
3 3 3
3 3
3
2136
Carefully consider the eye-making potential when defending your cutting
points inside your formation.
Next page: Failure
2137
Black just attached in the centre of White’s formation.
2138
2139
1
> 1
○●○●○●○●○
> 2
●○●○●○●○●
> 2
> 3
> 4
> 3
> 3
> 5
> 3
> 1
> 1
> 5
> 1
> 3
> 3
> 3
3
> 3
> 5
> 6
> 6
> 7
> 5
> 5
> 6
> 7
> 3
> 7
> 3
> 5
> 3
> 3
2140
> 3
> 3
> 5
> 3
4
> 4
> 4
Next page: Solution
2141
White 3 occupies the point that Black should have take beforehand.
2142
4
5 6
Black extends to 4, aiming at connecting his stones out.
But he is stopped by White’s hane at 5.
Black 6 is an atari.
2143
B 7 A
White will not connect at A, thereafter suffering from her shortage of

liberties.
White plays hane at 7 instead. Black is unable to give atari at B, and so is

forced to fight a ko.
2144
8
Black captures at 8, starting a ko fight for the life of White’s group that is
favourable for him.
But seen over all, this ko is a success for White, because Black missed the
opportunity to kill White’s group unconditionally.
2145
ko
White has to find the first valid ko threat.
2146
●○●○●○●○●○●
2147
10 9
11
White 9 is a valid ko threat that Black answers at 10.
2148
13
14 A 12
The hane of Black 12 is an internal ko threat, aiming at connecting his

stones out, with a move at A.
White’s connection at 13 frustrates Black’s plan, but Black is able to

recapture the ko with 14.
2149
16 15
17
White 15 is the second valid ko threat.
2150
18
19
White ignores Black’s ko threat of 18 to capture Black’s three stones, with

her move at 19, ending the ko fight.
White needed two valid ko threats more than Black to win this fight,
instead of only one.
2151
e
e
2152
Lessons learned

2153
2154
2155
have taken.
Next page: Failure
2156
White to live.
2157
2158
1
> 1
> 2
○●○●○●○●○
> 2
●○●○●○●○●
> 3
> 4
> 3
> 3
> 5
> 3
> 1
> 1
> 5
> 1
> 3
> 3
> 3
3
> 3
> 5
> 6
> 6
> 7
> 5
> 5
> 6
> 7
> 3
> 7
> 3
> 5
> 3
> 3
2159
> 3
> 3
> 5
> 3
4
> 4
> 4
Next page: Solution
2160
3
A
White answers with the turning move of 3.
White might consider blocking at A instead, but this will include a slight
territorial loss for her.
2161
A 5
4
Black’s hane of 4 at the right is answered in the same way; White lives by
playing the turning move of 5. White is the owner of the point of A, so
Black cannot destroy her eyes on the third line.
Black might consider playing 4 at 5 instead.
2162
e e
2163
Black’s attachment at 4 is a nice try, but will not lead to success.
2164
8
6 5 7
White stops Black from connecting to the right, starting with the hane at 5.
2165
9
B A
White has sufficient liberties left to give atari at 9. Black is hindered from
connecting at A, due to White B.
2166
e
e
2167
White can also live by blocking at 3, but this option incurs a small loss for
her.
2168
4
5
Black attaches at 4.
White’s hane at 5 stops Black from connecting to the right.
2169
6
7
Black’s cut at 6 is also an atari, so White must capture at 7.
2170
8
9
Black connects at 8 inside White’s formation. forcing White to also

connect at 9. White is alive in seki.
2171
n n
2172
Lessons learned
2173
Do not force your opponent to partition their potential eye space.
2174
2175
have taken.
Next page: Failure
2176
White just played on the first line.
2177
2178
1
> 1
>2
>2
> 3
> 4
> 3
> 3
> 5
> 3
○●○●○●○●○
> 1
●○●○●○●○●
> 1
> 5
> 1
> 3
> 3
> 3
3
> 3
> 5
> 6
> 6
> 7
> 5
> 5
> 6
> 7
> 3
> 7
> 3
> 5
> 3
> 3
2179
> 3
> 3
> 5
> 3
4
> 4
> 4
Next page: Solution
2180
Black 2 occupies the central point of the position that White should have
taken beforehand.
2181
3
White’s turning move at 3 aims at restricting the movement of Black’s

just-played stone.
2182
5
6 4
White has no other choice but to crosscut at 5, giving counter-atari.
Black captures White’s initially played stone, with his move at 6.
2183
7
White 7 divides her eye space, for the time being.
But Black’s attempt to connect his stones to the right, with his extension to
8, is also an atari.
2184
9
White must capture at 9, starting a ko fight for the life of her group.
2185
ko
This is a direct ko. Black must look for the first valid ko threat.
2186
e e
○●○●○●○●○●○
2187
2188
Lessons learned

2189
Do not let the shared end point of two lines of false eyes ( , ✕) become
occupied by your opponent.
2190
!! !!
2191
3 3 3
3 3
3 3
3
Mind your remaining weaknesses when defending.
2192
have taken.
Next page: Failure
2193
White just played a turning move at the left.
Black to kill.
2194
2195
1
> 1
> 2
> 2
> 3
> 4
> 3
> 3
> 5
> 3
> 1
○●○●○●○●○
> 1
●○●○●○●○●
> 5
> 1
> 3
> 3
> 3
3
> 3
> 5
> 6
> 6
> 7
> 5
> 5
> 6
> 7
> 3
> 7
> 3
> 5
> 3
> 3
2196
> 3
> 3
> 5
> 3
4
> 4
> 4
Next page: Solution
2197
Black’s hane of 2 at the right reduces White’s potential eye space from the
outside.
2198
4
3
White tries her best with a second turning move at 3.
Black 4 stops White from dividing her potential eye space quite easily.
2199
B
A 5
White blocks at 5, aiming at keeping her potential eye space as large as

possible.
White might consider descending to A instead.
Playing at B instead does not work either.
Black will answer with another hane at A, and White does not have
enough room left on the first line to build an eye.
2200
8
6 7
Black’s second hane at 6 makes miai of White 7 and Black 8. White’s eye
shape is filled with only a dead eye shape, and so White is dead.
2201
2202
White maximises her potential eye space by descending to 5 at the left.
2203
6
Black 6 occupies another central point of White’s formation.
2204
7
8
White 7 and Black 8 are miai. White is dead.
2205
2206
Lessons learned
!! !!
space.
2207
unoccupied, and could be taken by your opponent.
2208
3 3 3
3
3
Next page: Failure
2209
Black to kill.
2210
2211
1
> 1
> 2
> 2
> 3
> 4
> 3
> 3
> 5
> 3
> 1
> 1
> 5
○●○●○●○●○
> 1
●○●○●○●○●
> 3
> 3
> 3
3
> 3
> 5
> 6
> 6
> 7
> 5
> 5
> 6
> 7
> 3
> 7
> 3
> 5
> 3
> 3
2212
> 3
> 3
> 5
> 3
4
> 4
> 4
Next page: Solution
2213
Black 2 occupies the central point of the position that White should have
taken beforehand.
2214
B A
3
C
White tries the turning move of 3 here.
White might consider connecting at A at the right, or playing at B in the

centre, or playing the diagonal move of C on the bottom, instead.
2215
5
4 A 6
Black descends to 4, threatening to connect to the right.
White 5 and Black 6 are miai. White is hindered from intercepting at A,

and so is dead.
2216
2217
White 3 connects solidly in the upper right.
2218
4
Black’s hane at 4 is fatal.
2219
7
5 6
White might defend her potential eye space, with her moves at 5 and at 7,
but she leaves only a dead eye shape ( , △) behind.
2220
8
A
9
10
Black already occupies the central point of this dead eye shape, so he can
play elsewhere with 8.
White 9 does not serve to partition her eye space.
Black answers at 10, and White is hindered from continuing at A, due to

her shortage of liberties.
2221
2222
White 3 is played on top of Black’s intruder.
2223
4
Black’s extension to 4 is a natural reply.
2224
5
White 5 and Black 6 are miai, so White is dead.
2225
2226
White’s diagonal move at 3 does not really help.
2227
4
A B
Black cuts at 4, and White is helpless.
could have been played at A, or at B, to the same effect.
2228
6
5
White cannot prevent Black from capturing part of her stones, and so is
dead.
2229
2230
Lessons learned
!! !!
When defending one of two holes (!!) in your encirclement, do not forget
the other one.
2231
Maximising your potential eye space (●) does not make sense if you are
unable to divide it into two sections thereafter.
2232
Do not let the shared end point of two lines of false eyes ( , ✕) become
occupied by your opponent.
2233
3 3 3
3
3
2234
unoccupied, and could be taken by your opponent.
2235
have taken.
2236
Problem 019
Black to live.
2237
2238
○●○●○●○●○
1
●○●○●○●○●
> 1
2
> 2
4
> 4
Next page: Hints
2239
Hints 019
Black’s maximum potential eye space (●) is already divided into two
sections.
2240
e
At the top, Black has an eye point (e).
2241
? ?
? ? ? ?
? ? ? ?
Black will have to create his second eye somewhere in the ?-area on the
bottom, which currently contains two pairs of white stones.
2242
Both of White’s two-stone groups are not yet solidly connected to the
outside ( ).
2243
But Black’s partial groups are not yet solidly connected ( ) either.
2244
1 2
1 2
At the left, White’s cut-off group has one more liberty than Black’s one.
2245
3 2
3 2
At the right, Black’s cut-off group is also one liberty short, compared to
White’s two-stone group nearby.
Next page: Solution
2246
Solution 019
A
1
Black’s hane of 1 at the right attacks White’s two stones above, which are
reduced to only two liberties now, and cannot escape so easily. White will
have to take into account that a black atari at A might become a double-
purpose move.
2247
Black will not succeed by playing atari at the left.
2
A 3
White 2 gives atari at the right, forcing Black to connect at 3.
White might do without this forcing exchange that is not mandatory for the
solution.
White might consider immediately giving atari at A instead.
2248
4 A
White 4 gives atari to Black’s four stones at the right from the inside.
White might consider giving atari from the outside, with a move at A,
instead.
2249
6
5 A
Black 5 is a double-atari to the first line.
Here, White captures this stone with her move at 6.
In a real game, White will capture at A instead, letting Black live by

capturing two of her stones at the left, with a move at 6.
2250
A
7
B 8
The throw-in of Black 7 is the second double-atari.
White is unable to capture this stone with a move at A, due to a snap-back,

so she captures at 8 instead.
White will reach a similar result by capturing Black’s two stones in the
corner, with a move at B.
Black will then capture at A, gaining his second eye at the right.
2251
9
Black captures three of White’s stones on the bottom for his second eye,
with a move at 9.
2252
A
11
B
10
White 10 connects her stone on the first line in sente.
Otherwise, after a white move at 11, the points of A and B will become
miai for the death of Black’s group.
2253
e
2254
White’s atari of 4 at the left is an easy way to settle the situation.
2255
5
A 6
Black gives atari at the left, with his move at 5.
White captures Black’s four stones at the right in sente, with her move at
6.
If she mistakenly captures at A in the corner instead, Black will answer at

6, securing a large eye at the right.
2256
7
Black 7 captures two white stones for his second eye.
2257
e
2258
White 2 plays atari from the inside.
2259
3 A
Black continues as in the main line of the solution sequence, with the
double-atari of 3.
Connecting at A instead would revert to the main line of the solution.
2260
4
A
Here, White captures at 4.
In a real game, she would capture at A instead.
2261
5
6
Black’s second double-atari at 5 is answered by White 6 on the first line.
2262
7
Black captures three white stones for his second eye.
2263
e
Next page: Failure
2264
White to kill.
2265
2266
1
○●○●○●○●○
> 1
●○●○●○●○●
2
> 2
4
> 4
Next page: Solution
2267
White 2 captures in the corner. Not unsurprisingly, the massive shortage of

liberties on her side has vanished now.
2268
3
Black’s hane at 3 does not work any longer.
2269
4
7 5 6
White gives atari at 4 and at 6, forcing Black to connect at 5 and at 7.
2270
8
Thereafter, White 8 is an atari that Black’s group on the bottom cannot

escape.
Black’s partial group above has only one eye, and so is dead as well.
2271
2272
Lessons learned
2273
Do not be surprised, if your opponent actually saves an important group
that is caught in an atari.
2274
2
2
2
2275
Problem 020
Black to kill.
2276
2277
○●○●○●○●○
1
●○●○●○●○●
> 1
> 3
> 1
> 1
2
> 2
> 3
> 3
> 5
> 5
3
> 3
Next page: Hints
2278
Hints 020
2279
e
2280
Black’s formation at the right is very strong ( ), but also a bit far off the
mark.
2281
? ?
Black will have to make sure that White does not get an eye in the ?-area
at the first line.
2282
2283
At the left, there is a line of false eyes ( , ✕) available for Black.
However, establishing such a line needs a permanent stone on both of its

ends.
2284
3
3
White’s pair of stones at the left has only three liberties, and so is quite
Next page: Solution
2285
Solution 020
Black’s placement of 1 at the “head” of White’s large group threatens to

the right as well as to the left.
Black will succeed neither by pushing along the third line, nor by cutting
on the second line at the left, nor by playing a jump attachment at the right.
2286
2
A
White answers by jumping to 2. She hopes to either confine Black’s just-

played stone, or to establish sufficient additional eye space at the right.
To be continued …
2287
2288
White 2 gives atari to the first line.
To be continued …
2289
2290
Black to kill.
2291
2292
1
> 1
> 3
> 1
> 1
2
> 2
> 3
>
3
> 5
> 5
○●○●○●○●○
3
●○●○●○●○●
> 3
Next page: Hints
2293
White’s potential eye space (e) is already divided into two sections.
2294
e
2295
? ?
? ? ?
Black will have to stop White from establishing her second eye in the ?-
area on the bottom.
2296
2297
3
3
White’s partial group at the left has only three liberties, and so is quite
2298
4
White’s single stone at the right has four liberties, and so will not become
White’s primary concern.
2299
Please remember that establishing such a line needs a permanent stone on

both of its ends.
2300
Black’s formation at the right is very strong, limiting White’s options in
this area.
Next page: Solution
2301
Solution 020 (follow up)
3
A
The turning move of Black 3 destroys White’s potential eye space at the
right and threatens to continue with a move at A, connecting his pivotal
stone.
Black must not cut White’s potential connection at the left instead.
2302
4
White solidifies her shape with the connection at 4.
2303
6
5
7
Black 5 addresses his second threat at the left.
White cannot let Black 5 connect to the outside, as would turn into a
false eye only. But intercepting at 6 does not work either.
Black’s atari at 7 establishes a snap-back, and White is reduced to only one

eye.
2304
Next page: Failure
2305
020 Problem (follow-up – failure)
Black just wedged in at the left.
White to live.
2306
2307
1
> 1
> 3
> 1
> 1
2
> 2
> 3
> 3
> 5
> 5
3
○●○●○●○●○
> 3
●○●○●○●○●
Next page: Solution
2308
020 Solution (follow-up – failure)
B 4
White is unable to save her two stones at the left (White A, Black B), and
so gives atari at 4 at the first line at the right.
2309
5 6
2310
8
Black captures two white stones in sente, but is unable to stop White from
getting two eyes.
2311
e
2312
Lessons learned
2
2
2313
have.
2314
Attacking your opponent’s potential eye space does not make sense, if you
hastily lose sight on important parts of it (●).
2315
2
2
These might become the source for a counter-attack by your opponent.
2316
Problem 020 (variation – follow-up)
Black to kill.
2317
2318
1
> 1
> 3
> 1
> 1
2
> 2
○●○●○●○●○
> 3
●○●○●○●○●
> 3
> 5
> 5
3
> 3
Next page: Hints
2319
Hints 020 (variation – follow up)
2320
e
2321
?
? ?
Black will have to stop White from establishing her second eye in the ?-
area on the bottom.
2322
Black’s formation at the right is very strong, limiting White’s options in
this area.
2323

ends.
2324
2325
3
3 2
White’s groups on the bottom have only two, respectively three liberties,
and so are quite vulnerable to an attack.
Next page: Solution
2326
Solution 020 (variation – follow up)
Black is forced to crosscut at 3.
A white move at this point would be equivalent to a sure eye for White.
Black must not cut White’s potential connection at the left instead.
2327
4
2328
5
Black 5 stops White from getting an eye at the left.
2329
6 8 9
7
White’s attempt to capture Black’s single stone at the right for an eye,
starting with her move at 6, is finally frustrated by Black 9.
There is only a false eye on the bottom, so White is dead.
2330
Next page: Failure
2331
020 Problem (variation – follow-up – failure)
Black just wedged in at the left.
White to live.
2332
2333
> 1
> 3
> 1
> 1
1
○●○●○●○●○
> 3
●○●○●○●○●
> 5
> 5
> 3
> 3
3
2334
1
> 1
> 3
> 1
> 1
2
> 2
> 3
○●○●○●○●○
> 3
●○●○●○●○●
> 5
> 5
3
> 3
Next page: Solution
2335
020 Solution (variation – follow-up – failure)
Hunting White’s two stones at the left lets the bigger fish bounce of the
hook.
White 4 enlarges her potential eye space at the right, also defending her
cutting point on the bottom.
2336
5 6
2337
8
Black 7 and White 8 are miai for the life of White’s group.
2338
e
2339
Black 7 destroys White’s potential eye at the right.
2340
B
8 A
But White 8 captures at the left, also saving her two stones.
White has become the owner of the point of A, so B is a real eye.
2341
e
2342
Black 5 destroys White’s eye shape at the right.
2343
6
C
A B
But White gives atari at 6 at the left, immobilising two black stones.
This means that there will be no snap-back after Black’s atari at A.
White is the owner of the point of B now, so C is a real eye.
2344
e
2345
Lessons learned
2
2
2346
have.
2347
Attacking your opponent’s potential eye space does not make sense, if you
hastily lose sight on important parts of it (●).
2348
2
1
These might become the source for a counter-attack by your opponent.
Next page: Failure
2349
Black just pushed on the third line.
White to live.
2350
2351
1
○●○●○●○●○
> 1
●○●○●○●○●
> 3
> 1
> 1
2
> 2
> 3
> 3
> 5
> 5
3
> 3
Next page: Solution
2352
White connects at 2, securing an eye on the bottom.
2353
3
4
Black’s forcing move at 3 does not really affect the status of White’s
group.
White descends to 4, securing the second eye for her group.
2354
e
2355
Black tries the placement at 3 on the first line, but is too far away to
support this move.
2356
4 6
5 7
White has to extend to 4 and to 6, because capturing with 5 or at 7 instead

would result in only a false eye.
2357
9
10 8
White 8 gives atari to three black stones.
Black’s counter-atari at 9 forces White to capture at 10.
2358
12 11
Black 11 and White 12 are miai, so White gets a living shape.
2359
e
2360
Lessons learned
Only slightly reducing your opponent’s potential eye space from the
2361
!!
Do not force your opponent to close a hole (!!) in their encirclement.
Next page: Failure
2362
Black just cut on the second line at the left.
White to live.
2363
2364
1
>1
> 3
○●○●○●○●○
> 1
●○●○●○●○●
> 1
2
> 2
> 3
> 3
> 5
> 5
3
> 3
Next page: Solution
2365
White 2 captures Black’s just-played stone for an eye.
2366
3 4
There is no chance for Black to turn White’s eye at the left into a false one.
His attempt with the hane of 3 is frustrated by White’s atari at 4.
2367
B 5
6 A
Black’s crosscut at 5 does not benefit Black.
White 6 captures two black stones. White is the owner of the point of A, so
B is a real eye.
2368
e
2369
Lessons learned
Do not forget that you will need a permanent stone on both ends of a line
of false eyes ( , ✕) to make it work.
2370
2
Next page: Failure
2371
Black just played a jump attachment at the right.
White to live.
2372
2373
1
>1
> 3
> 1
○●○●○●○●○
> 1
●○●○●○●○●
2
> 2
> 3
> 3
> 5
> 5
3
> 3
Next page: Solution
2374
White descends to 2, consolidating her eye space.
2375
3
4
Black can force with 3, but he cannot really threaten White’s group any
longer.
2376
e
2377
Lessons learned
2378
!!
Do not force your opponent to close a hole (!!) in their encirclement,

solidifying their formation.
2379
have taken.
2380
Problem 021
Black to live.
2381
2382
○●○●○●○●○
1
●○●○●○●○●
> 1
> 1
> 1
2
> 2
8
> 8
Next page: Hints
2383
Hints 021
Black’s potential eye space (●) is bulky, partially filled with some white
stones.
2384
Black’s partial groups are not yet solidly connected ( ), leaving a cutting
point for White to exploit.
2385
2 2
Black’s pair of stones at the right have only two liberties, and so are very
2386
At the right, there is a line of false eyes ( , ✕) available for White.
2387
White’s single stone at the right is not yet solidly connected to the outside
( ).
2388
White’s three stones already form a dead eye shape ( ).
2389
They are also part of a dead five-point eye shape ( , △).
Next page: Solution
2390
Solution 021
Black’s position is so full of weaknesses that he needs some preparatory

measures to survive.
Black’s atari of 1 at the right will do the job.
Black will succeed neither by playing a diagonal move at the right, nor by
2391
connecting solidly at the right, nor by giving atari to White’s three stones.
A 2
3
White 2 cuts inside Black’s formation, also giving counter-atari to Black’s

threes stones on the right.
White might try playing at A instead, creating a bulky four-stone

formation inside Black’s group.
Black enlarges his sacrifice by capturing at 3.
2392
4
White’s second atari at 4 is mandatory.
2393
5
6
Black’s descent to 5 is a double-atari now.
2394
7
Black 7 captures only three white stones only, but thereafter, …
2395
9 8
… White 8 and Black 9 are miai for the life of Black’s group.
2396
e
e
2397
White 8 occupies the central point of Black’s eye shape at the left,
reducing it to only one eye.
2398
9 B
A
However, Black is able to successfully cut at 9.
White is unable to connect this atari with a move at A, due to Black B.

Black’s -stone at the right – sacrificed earlier – has become very useful
now.
2399
e e
2400
White’s move at 2 creates a bulky four-stone shape.
2401
A
3
Black will not connect at A, but give atari at B instead.
2402
4
Capturing at 4 does not really benefit White.
2403
5
Black connects at 5, and will live by capturing all of White’s stones inside
his formation.
2404
e
e
Next page: Failure
2405
Black just played a diagonal move at the right.
White to kill.
2406
2407
1
○●○●○●○●○
> 1
●○●○●○●○●
> 1
> 1
2
> 2
8
> 8
Next page: Solution
2408
White 2 creates a dead eye shape inside Black’s formation.
2409
2410
Lessons learned
2 2
Think twice before defending some of your stones, as these might become
captured easily.
2411
When defending, do not leave a dead eye shape ( , △) behind, whose
central point is already occupied by your opponent.
Next page: Failure
2412
Black just connected solidly at the right.
White to kill.
2413
2414
1
> 1
○●○●○●○●○
> 1
●○●○●○●○●
> 1
2
> 2
8
> 8
Next page: Solution
2415
White extends to 2, successfully reducing Black’s potential eye shape.

There is no chance for Black to divide it any longer.
White’s three stones are part of a dead eye shape.
2416
2417
Lessons learned
2 2
captured easily.
2418
2419
!!
Next page: Failure
2420
Black just played atari to White’s three stones.
White to kill.
2421
2422
1
> 1
> 1
○●○●○●○●○
> 1
●○●○●○●○●
2
> 2
8
> 8
Next page: Solution
2423
White 2 gives atari to Black’s two stones at the right.
2424
3
Black captures three white stones.
2425
4
But here, there is nothing else that White has to worry about but the central
point of Black’s potential eye shape.
White 4 takes this point, killing Black.
2426
2427
Lessons learned
2428
have.
2429
Capturing only a dead eye shape ( ) does not make sense, if you will be
unable to occupy its central point thereafter.
2430
!!
2431
Problem 022
White to kill (by means of ko).
2432
2433
○●○●○●○●○
1
●○●○●○●○●
3
> 3
4
> 4
> 4
Next page: Hints
2434
Hints 022
Black’s potential eye space (●) is quite large, elongated, and already
contains some white stones.
2435
2436
White’s formation at the right ( ) is strong, looking forward to friendly
stones on any of the ◇-points on the bottom line.
2437
2 2
2
However, will there be some support for White’s group at the left that has
only two liberties, and so is in imminent danger of being captured?
2438
3 3
2
2
Black’s stones at the left have only two, respectively three, liberties.
Due to the special conditions in the corner, this might result in some
shortage of liberties on Black’s side.
2439
Black’s stones at the left are only diagonally connected ( ), weakening
Black’s ability to approach White’s cut-off stones from this direction.
2440
On the other hand, White must be very well aware that the gap between
her stones at the left and at the right is very large.
Additionally, connecting stones that are arranged on a zigzag line ( , ✕)

might suffer from a shortage of liberties.
Next page: Solution
2441
Solution 022
White’s three stones are extremely weak, so White has to strengthen these,
by playing the atari of 1 in the corner.
2442
B
2
A
Otherwise, White would get two eyes for her corner group by capturing at
this point.
Now, Black is unable to directly approach at A. He needed to connect at B

beforehand, probably losing a move.
To be continued …
2443
2444
2445
2446
1
○●○●○●○●○
3
●○●○●○●○●
> 3
4
> 4
> 4
Next page: Hints
2447
Black’s potential eye space (●) is quite large, elongated, and already filled
with several white stones.
2448
2449
2 2
2
2
White’s partial groups at the left that have only two liberties, and so are in
2450
3 3
2
2 2
Black’s stones at the left have only two, respectively three, liberties.
Due to the special conditions in the corner, this might result in some
2451
White’s formation at the right ( ) is strong, looking forward to friendly
stones on any of the ◇-points on the bottom line.
2452
White might set her hopes on the marked line of false eyes ( , ✕) at the
left.
Please remember that permanent stones on both end of such a line are
needed to make it work successfully.
2453
White must be very well aware that the gap between her stones at the left
and at the right is very large.
Additionally, connecting stones that are arranged on a zigzag line ( , ✕)

Next page: Solution
2454
The diagonal move of White 3 provides her stones at the left with a more
resilient shape, and also aims at connecting to the right.
White will not succeed by playing a one-point jump from the right.
2455
A
4
The distance that White has to overcome is quite large, so Black intercepts
by jumping to 4.
However, Black must not give atari to White’s three stones at the left
instead.
2456
8 5 6
7
White’s only chance is the surprising move at 5.
Black needs two moves to temporarily save his single stone on the first
line, 6 and 8, while White is able to play two moves on the first line, 7 and
…
2457
B
A
C 9
… 9 here.
Black is unable to connect at A, because he is short of liberties. White will

be one step faster in this partial semeai by starting at B.
Please also note the value of White’s initial atari in the corner, making the
point of C taboo for Black.
2458
10 11
Black gives atari at 10 instead.
White 11 captures Black’s stone on the first line, starting the ko fight for
the life of Black’s group.
2459
ko
Black has to look for the first valid ko threat. This ko is unfavourable for
White, because Black has internal ko threat up his sleeves.
2460
12
Black captures White’s three stones in the corner, using this move as an
internal ko threat.
2461
13
A
Black would live by further capturing in the corner, with a move at A, so

White has to recapture at 13.
2462
14
Black 14 recaptures the ko at the right.
2463
ko
Now it is White who has to look for the first valid ko threat.
2464
e
e
e e
●○●○●○●○●○●
2465
15
16
17
White 15 is a valid ko threat that Black answers with 16.
2466
18
20 19
Black uses the atari of 18 as an internal ko threat.
White is able to connect the ko at the right, with her move at 19.
But there remains the second ko shape at the left. Black captures at 20, and
the ko simply has changed place.
2467
21
22
23
White 21 is her second valid ko threat.
2468
25 24
26
Black has another internal ko threat, at 24.
White 25 prevents Black from getting his second eye on the left edge.
2469
27
28
29
White 27 is her third valid ko threat that Black answers.
2470
30
31
White ignores Black’s ko threat of 30 to connect the ko at 31.
White needed three more valid ko threats than Black to win this ko fight,
not only one.
2471
2472
Black descends to 4. This move will result in a change in the order of

moves.
2473
7 8
5 6 A
White pushes to 5, and Black is forced to block White’s further path at 6.
White throws in at 7, and Black cannot answer at A. He must capture

White’s just-played stone with a move at 8.
2474
10 11
9
White 9 gives atari to the bottom.
Black 10 is a counter-atari in the corner, after which White captures at 11,

starting the ko fight for the life of Black’s group that we have seen in
detail just before.
2475
ko
2476
022 Problem (follow up – failure I)
White to kill.
2477
2478
1
3
> 3
4
> 4
○●○●○●○●○
> 4
●○●○●○●○●
Next page: Solution
2479
White 5 jumps to the point that Black should have taken beforehand.
2480
6
Black 6 captures three white stones, but this fact alone will provide him
with only one eye.
2481
7
White’s connection to the right is not in danger; White simply recaptures

at 7.
2482
8
11
9 10
After Black’s atari at 8, White can calmly connect at 9.
Black’s throw-in at 10 will not work here. White captures at 11.
2483
12 15
13 14
The procedure of atari and throw-in repeats for a second time.
2484
16
17
Black’s final atari at 16 is fruitless.
White connects at 17, and Black’s group is dead with only one eye.
2485
2486
Lessons learned
2487
are in atari.
have.
2488
Mind the lines of false eyes ( ).
2489
2
2 2
2490
have taken.
2491
022 Problem (follow up – failure II)
White just played a one-point jump at the right.
Black to live.
2492
2493
1
3
○●○●○●○●○
> 3
●○●○●○●○●
4
> 4
> 4
Next page: Solution
2494
022 Solution (follow up – failure II)
Black 4 jumps to the first line, confining White’s four stones at the left to
the corner. There is nothing that White could do to stop Black from
successfully dividing his eye space.
Please note that Black occupied the point that White should have taken
2495
beforehand.
2496
Lessons learned
2 2
2
Mind the liberty count of groups that you want to support.
2497
A large knight’s jump connection to the first line ( ) might be broken,
due to a shortage of liberties on one of its sides.
2498
have taken.
2499
Problem 023
2500
2501
○●○●○●○●○
1
●○●○●○●○●
> 1
> 1
> 4
> 1
> 2
3
> 3
> 6
> 7
> 6
> 7
> 12
> 8
> 14
> 3
> 4
> 3
> 7
4
> 4
> 8
> 4
> 4
> 8
5
Next page: Hints
2502
Hints 023
White’s potential eye space (●) is quite large. It has strong bulky
tendencies, but also some options for partitioning.
2503
Black’s formation at the right ( ) is strong, but located only on the third
line.
White might have chances to expand her area of influence to the right.
2504
White’s maximum potential eye space (●) might gain two additional points
at the right.
This area consists of twelve points, so Black might encounter some

problems with reducing it successfully.
2505
2506
There are two lines of false eyes ( , ✕) visible, one at the right and the
other one at the left.
2507
3 3
Next page: Solution
2508
Solution 023
A 1
Black’s placement of 1 hits the vital point of the problem, stopping White
from dividing her potential eye space quite easily. The primary threat of
this move is to cut at A, capturing White’s pair of stones at the left.
Black will succeed neither by playing hane at the right, nor by playing
2509
hane at the left, nor by pushing from above.
She cannot allow Black to cut, because she would lose her two stones
outright, and there is not enough room at the right alone for building two
eyes.
To be continued …
2510
2511
Problem 023 (follow-up I)
2512
1
>1
>1
> 4
> 1
> 2
○●○●○●○●○
3
●○●○●○●○●
> 3
> 6
> 7
> 6
> 7
> 12
> 8
> 14
> 3
> 4
> 3
> 7
4
> 4
> 8
> 4
> 4
> 8
5
Next page: Hints
2513
Hints 023 (follow-up I)
White’s maximum potential eye space (●) is quite large, with some bulky
tendencies and a black stone in its centre.
However, there are still some options left for partitioning this area.
2514
2515
On the bottom, there is a dead five-point eye space ( , △) visible.
Please note that its central point is not yet occupied.
2516
Another potential dead five-point eye space ( , △), whose central point is
already occupied by Black.
2517
!!
!!
!! !!
White’s encirclement has three holes (!!), smaller ones at the left and at the
top, and a larger one at the right.
2518
Black’s formation at the right ( ) is strong, but positioned only on the
third line.
2519
At the right, there is a line of false eyes ( , ✕) available for Black.

ends.
Next page: Solution
2520
Solution 023 (follow-up I)
Black’s hane of 3 is the only move to reduce White’s potential eye space
successfully.
Black will succeed neither by playing hane at the left, nor by descending at
the right, nor by extending inside White’s formation.
2521
B C
4 A
White 4 plays hane from below, in an attempt to partition her potential eye
space.
To be continued …
White might consider jumping to A, or playing at B, or blocking at C,

instead.
2522
2523
A
4
White jumps to 4.
This move is a common tesuji, aiming at the cut of A for capturing Black’s
single stone at the right, but will not lead to success here.
To be continued …
2524
2525
White’s descent to 4 does nothing more than prevent Black’s intruder from
escaping.
To be continued …
2526
2527
White 4 blocks at the right, in an attempt to maximise her potential eye

space in sente.
To be continued …
2528
2529
Problem 023 (follow-up II)
Black to kill.
2530
2531
1
> 1
> 1
> 4
> 1
> 2
3
> 3
> 6
> 7
> 6
> 7
> 12
> 8
> 14
> 3
> 4
> 3
> 7
4
>4
> 8
> 4
> 4
> 8
○●○●○●○●○
5
●○●○●○●○●
Next page: Hints
2532
Hints 023 (follow-up II)
But …
2533
… White’s partial groups are not yet solidly connected ( ), leaving
2534
2
White’s single stone on the bottom line has only two liberties, making it
very vulnerable to an attack.
2535
2
Black’s single stone inside White’s formation has only two liberties as
well.
Black will have no time to lose to prevent White from capturing it outright.
2536
In the centre of White’s formation, there is a dead five-point eye shape
visible ( , , △), whose central point is already occupied by White.
2537
There is another dead eye shape ( , △) available at the right, whose
central point is still empty.
2538
Black’s single stone at the right, which is looking deep into White’s
formation, is not yet solidly connected to his allies ( ).
Black will have to keep this weakness in mind.
2539
!!
!!
At the right, there is a large hole (!!) in White’s encirclement.
However, Black’s above-mentioned weakness in that area might limit his

options.
2540
Next page: Solution
2541
Solution 023 (follow-up II)
A B
5
Black’s atari at 5 is the only move here.
Black cannot extend to A instead, due to his weakness at B.
2542
6
White surprisingly descends to 6, establishing a ko shape in the centre of

her formation.
2543
8
7
A
Black does not start the ko fight immediately, with a move at A, but
connects at 7 first. This move erases White’s potential internal ko threats
at the right.
White gives atari at 8.
2544
A B
9
Black cannot connect at A, due to White B, and has to capture at 9 instead,

starting the ko fight for the life of White’s group.
2545
ko
This is a direct ko, White has to look for the first valid ko threat.
2546
●○●○●○●○●○●
2547
e
e
2548
Problem 023 (follow-up I – variation I)
Black to kill.
2549
2550
1
> 1
> 1
> 4
> 1
> 2
3
> 3
> 6
> 7
> 6
> 7
> 12
> 8
> 14
> 3
> 4
> 3
> 7
4
○●○●○●○●○
> 4
●○●○●○●○●
> 8
> 4
> 4
> 8
5
Next page: Hints
2551
Hints 023 (follow-up I – variation I)
White’s maximum potential eye space (●) has bulky tendencies and a
black stone in its centre.
However, there are still some options left for partitioning this small area.
2552
2553
On the bottom, there is a dead five-point eye space ( , △) visible, whose
2554
Black’s single stone at the right, which is looking deep into White’s
formation, is not yet solidly connected to his allies ( ).
This weakness might limit Black’s options in that area.
2555
White’s formation at the right ( ) is quite strong, looking forward to
exploiting Black’s aforementioned weakness.
2556
!!
There is still the hole (!!) in White’s encirclement at the right.
Next page: Solution
2557
Solution 023 (follow-up I – variation I)
A
5
The diagonal move of Black 5 threatens to connect to the right, with a

move at A.
2558
6
7
White gives atari at 6, blocking Black’s escape route – for the time being.
Black has to connect at 7, creating a dead three-point eye shape inside

White’s formation.
2559
8
A
White uses the presence of her earlier played -stone to cut at 8, aiming at
capturing Black’s single stone at the right.
White might consider descending to A at the left instead.
2560
9
A 10 11
Black gives atari, with his moves at 9 and at 11.
But White’s tesuji does not work here. White is unable to connect at A,
due to Black’s earlier played -stone.
2561
14
13 12
White 12 gives atari to Black’s troublemakers in sente.
Black is forced to stopping White from making her second eye on the left,
by playing hane at 13.
White 14 captures Black’s three stones, hoping to erase her shortage of

liberties at the right.
2562
15
But she is taken by surprise. Black 15 captures White’s two stones at the
right.
2563
17
16
Thereafter, White 16 and Black 17 are miai. White has only one eye, and
so is dead.
2564
2565
8 9
White’s descent to 8 aims at maximising her potential eye space.
Black 9 is forced to stop White to create two eyes by playing at the same
point. Black’s four stones build a dead eye shape inside White’s formation.
2566
10 11
A 12 13
But White’s tesuji with cutting at 10 does not work here.
After Black’s atari at 13, White is unable to connect at A, due to Black’s

earlier played -stone.
2567
14 15
A
White 14 aims again at maximising her potential eye space.
White’s plans are frustrated by Black 15, avoiding a seki. Sooner or later,
White would have to connect at A.
2568
2569
Problem 023 (follow-up I – variation II)
Black to kill.
2570
2571
1
> 1
> 1
> 4
> 1
> 2
3
> 3
> 6
> 7
> 6
> 7
> 12
> 8
> 14
> 3
> 4
> 3
> 7
4
>4
> 8
○●○●○●○●○
> 4
●○●○●○●○●
> 4
> 8
5
Next page: Hints
2572
Hints 023 (follow-up I – variation II)
White’s maximum potential eye space (●) is quite winding, but already has
a black stone included.
There are still some options left for partitioning this small area.
2573
2574
On the bottom, there is a dead four-point eye space ( , △) visible, whose
2575
Black’s single stone at the right is not yet solidly connected to his allies (
).
Next page: Solution
2576
Solution 023 (follow-up I – variation II)
Black descends to 5, stopping White from dividing her potential eye space.
2577
6 7
2578
9
8
White’s diagonal move at 8 addresses Black’s weakness at the right.
Black calmly connects at 9.
2579
10 11
A
White cannot successfully maximise her eye space with her move at 10.
Black 11 creates a cutting point in White’s encirclement. Sooner or later,

White would have to connect at A. There is only a dead eye shape inside
White’s group, so she is dead.
2580
2581
Problem 023 (follow-up I – variation III)
Black to kill.
2582
2583
1
> 1
> 1
> 4
> 1
> 2
3
> 3
> 6
> 7
> 6
> 7
> 12
> 8
> 14
> 3
> 4
> 3
> 7
4
>4
> 8
> 4
○●○●○●○●○
> 4
●○●○●○●○●
> 8
5
Next page: Hints
2584
Hints 023 (follow-up I – variation III)
White’s maximum potential eye space (●) has bulky tendencies and a
black stone in its centre.
However, there are still some options left for partitioning this small area.
2585
2586
On the bottom, there is a dead five-point eye space ( , △) visible, whose
2587
2
Black single stone at the right has only two liberties, and so is in imminent
danger of being captured.
Next page: Solution
2588
Solution 023 (follow-up I – variation III)
5
A
Black’s connection at the right is mandatory.
White will live is she is allowed to capture Black’s single stone at the
right.
Black might consider choosing the diagonal connection of A instead of
2589
connecting solidly at 5, having no effect on the solution.
6 7
White’s hane at 6 is answered by Black’s atari at 7.
2590
8 9
2591
10
11 A
White cuts at 10, also giving atari at Black’s two stones at the right. But
capturing at A will result in only a false eye.
Black’s hane at 11 successfully reduces White’s group to only one eye.
2592
2593
White descends to 8, stopping Black from connecting to the right.
2594
9
Black 9 captures White’s single stone on the first line, establishing a dead
eye shape inside White’s formation.
2595
10
11 12 13
White 10 tries to maximise her potential eye space.
Black 11 takes the miai point, forcing White to intercept at 12.
Black connects at 13, avoiding a ko fight for the life of White’s group.
There is nothing more than only one large eye inside White’s formation, so
her group is dead.
2596
Next page: Failure
2597
023 Problem (follow-up I – failure I)
White to live.
2598
2599
1
> 1
> 1
> 4
> 1
> 2
3
○●○●○●○●○
> 3
●○●○●○●○●
> 6
> 7
> 6
> 7
> 12
> 8
> 14
> 3
> 4
> 3
> 7
4
> 4
> 8
> 4
> 4
> 8
5
Next page: Solution
2600
023 Solution (follow-up I – failure I)
4 5
White enlarges her potential eye space at the right, by playing the hane at
4.
Black 5 blocks from the outside, but he will be unable to kill White’s
group. White’s potential eye space simply has become too large.
2601
6
A B
White connects solidly at 6.
White might consider playing the diagonal move of A, or descending to B,

instead.
2602
8
7
2603
9 10
Black 9 stops White from dividing her potential eye space at the right.
White closes her territory by descending to 10.
2604
13
14
11 12
White’s potential eye space has become a long winding line of points.
Black can reduce the size of this line, by playing 11 and 13 from the
outside, but he has no means available to stop the partitioning of White’s
eye space.
2605
e
e
2606
White defends at the right with the diagonal move of 6.
2607
7 8
9
Black extends to 7, attacking from the inside.
Black might consider descending immediately at 9 instead.
White blocks at 8, temporarily building an eye at the right.
Black 9 aims at destroying White’s potential eye at the right.
2608
10
But White is able to solidly connect at 10.
2609
11 B A
Black tries his best by descending to 11, aiming at creating a ko shape on

the bottom.
Immediately giving atari at A will lead to a similar result, after White

captures at B.
2610
B
A 12
But there will be no ko. White will neither play at A, nor at B, but simply
connect at 12.
2611
e
e
2612
Black descends to 7 on the right, aiming at weakening White’s shape at the

right.
2613
8
White 8 immobilises Black’s single stone inside her formation,

simultaneously dividing her eye space.
2614
10 9
A
Black throws in at 9, and White is unable to connect at A.
She has to capture at 10 instead.
2615
A
D 12 C B 11
Black 11 destroys White’s hopes for an eye at the very right, by giving
atari from below.
White 12 successfully divides her remaining eye space.
White must not connect at A at the right instead.
If Black captures at A now, White calmly connects at B.
2616
In addition, there remains the point of D as an alternative option for
another eye.
e
e
2617
White’s descent to 6 also seems possible to me.
2618
A
7
Black’s placement at 7 aims at gaining a snap-back at the right.
2619
10 8 A
9
White answers at 8 above Black’s just-played stone, aiming at ending the

discussion with an atari 9.
White might consider connecting immediately at A instead.
Black extends to 9, in an attempt to reanimate the threat of a snap-back at

the right.
But White 10 creates a long line of points for White’s potential eye space
2620
that is too long to serve Black’s ambitions of killing White’s group.
White 10 could also be played at A.
12
11
Black 11 takes a liberty of White’s two stones at the right, threatening a

snap-back.
White’s connection at 12 is forced.
2621
13 14
Black cannot reduce White’s eye space successfully.
2622
e
e
2623
White connects solidly at 8.
2624
9
10
Black’s extension to 9 aims at creating a dead eye shape inside White’s

formation, but is frustrated by White’s hane at 10.
2625
12
11 13
Black’s atari at 13 is a nice try. White must be on her guard here.
2626
14
White calmly connects at 14. Her eye space consists of five points in a
row; White’s group is alive.
White must not hastily give atari from above instead.
2627
e
e
2628
Variation for Black 7 (White 6 (II))
Black extends to 7 in the centre of White’s formation.
2629
8
10 9
White blocks at 8.
Black’s hane at 9 aims at a snap-back at the right, as well as creating a ko

shape on the bottom.
White’s hane at 10 ends the discussion.
2630
12
A 11
Black can do nothing more than to play at 11 on the outside, forcing White
to connect at 12.
A black move at A will be gote now.
2631
e
e
2632
Lessons learned
2633
These might become the source of your defeat.
Next page: Failure
2634
023 Problem (follow-up I – failure II)
White just played atari from above.
2635
2636
1
> 1
> 1
> 4
> 1
> 2
3
> 3
> 6
> 7
> 6
7 >
> 12
> 8
○●○●○●○●○
> 14
●○●○●○●○●
> 3
> 4
> 3
> 7
4
> 4
> 8
> 4
> 4
> 8
5
Next page: Solution
2637
023 Solution (follow-up I – failure II)
15
2638
B A 16
Black does not want to connect at A, due to White B.
2639
17 18
Black 17 connects on the outside instead, forcing White to capture at 18.
2640
A
19
White is unable to connect at A; she would die in gote.
2641
21 20
White 20 is a counter-atari.
Black captures at 21, starting an uncalled-for ko fight for the life of

White’s group.
2642
ko
This is a direct ko. White must find the first valid ko threat.
2643
●○●○●○●○●○●
2644
e
e
2645
Lessons learned
2646
2647
have.
Be well aware that your opponent might not be forced to let you realise
your aim immediately.
2648
2
(Re-) placing a stone on the second line, after having captured some
opponent stones inside your formation (please assume the ●-points to be
empty), might result in two liberties only, making this stone very
Next page: Failure
2649
023 Problem (follow-up I – failure III)
White just connected at the right.
Black to kill.
2650
2651
1
> 1
> 1
> 4
> 1
> 2
3
> 3
6>
> 7
> 6
> 7
○●○●○●○●○
> 12
●○●○●○●○●
> 8
> 14
> 3
> 4
> 3
> 7
4
> 4
> 8
> 4
> 4
> 8
5
Next page: Solution
2652
023 Solution (follow-up I – failure III)
13
Black’s hane at 13 kills White’s group.
2653
14
Maximising White’s potential eye space, by blocking at 14, comes too late
now.
2654
A 15
Black connects at 15, leaving a dead eye shape behind.
He must not hastily play at A instead, unnecessarily being forced to fight a

ko.
2655
16 17
A
Sooner or later, White would be forced to connect at A, so there will be no

seki.
2656
2657
Lessons learned
Think twice before connecting a single stone that is in atari.
Especially if your potential sacrifice is located on the outskirts of your

formation.
2658
When playing on the outside, do not leave a dead eye shape ( , △)
behind inside, whose central point is still unoccupied.
Next page: Failure
2659
023 Problem (follow-up I – failure IV)
Black just descended at the right.
White to live.
2660
2661
1
> 1
> 1
> 4
> 1
> 2
3
> 3
> 6
> 7
> 6
7 >
> 12
> 8
> 14
○●○●○●○●○
> 3
●○●○●○●○●
> 4
> 3
> 7
4
> 4
> 8
> 4
> 4
> 8
5
Next page: Solution
2662
023 Solution (follow-up I – failure IV)
4 A
White’s descent to 4 immobilises Black’s intruder.
White also aims at playing at A, enlarging her potential eye space

decisively.
However, White should not block immediately at the right instead, because
2663
this will include a territorial loss for her.
5
7 8 6
Finally, White gets her second eye on the first line by blocking at 8, and so
is alive.
2664
e
e
2665
White 4 blocks at the right, aiming at maximising her potential eye space.
2666
5
Black 5 extends to the right, stopping White from dividing her potential
eye space quite easily, by occupying the same point.
2667
6
White descends to 6 at the left, maximising her eye space.
2668
8 7
Black’s hane of 7 at the right is a slight reduction.
White blocks Black’s further encroachment by giving atari at 8.
2669
A
9 10
He must not choose the point of A instead.
White 10 captures Black’s single stone at the right.
2670
A
11
Black’s hane at 11 establishes a dead five-point eye shape inside White’s

formation.
However, White’s potential eye space has several empty points left, so this
sub-variation results in a seki.
Black is unable to play at A, so White’s groups at the right and at the left
are solidly connected with each other.
2671
In a real game, White might benefit from her sente, and also from her -
stone at the bottom right in the endgame.
However, in the field of tsume-go, none of these aspects can compensate

for the loss of two real eyes. Therefore, this sub-variation can be called
only semi-correct.
n
n
2672
2673
Lessons learned
2674
Aiming at establishing at dead eye shape ( , △) will not lead to success
…
2675
… if you are unable to occupy all but one point of your opponent’s
remaining potential eye space (●).
Next page: Failure
2676
023 Problem (follow-up I – failure V)
Black just extended inside White’s formation.
White to live.
2677
2678
1
> 1
> 1
> 4
> 1
> 2
3
> 3
> 6
> 7
> 6
> 7
> 12
> 8
> 14
>3
> 4
○●○●○●○●○
> 3
●○●○●○●○●
> 7
4
> 4
> 8
> 4
> 4
> 8
5
Next page: Solution
2679
023 Solution (follow-up I – failure V)
White expands her potential eye space, by playing hane at 4 at the right.
2680
5
6
Black blocks at 5, and White defends with the diagonal move at 6.
2681
7 8
9 10 A
Black 7 extends for the second time, threatening to cut at 8.
Black might consider descending to A instead.
Black’s hane at 9 reduces White’s eye space a bit. But it has become too
large; Black cannot succeed any longer.
2682
11 12
Black 11 and White 12 are miai. White has got a living shape.
2683
e
e
2684
Black’s descent to 7 aims at weakening White’s formation at the right.
2685
8 9
White descends to 8 at the left, forcing Black to play the hane at 9.
2686
10 A
12 B 11
White 10 immobilises Black’s stones inside her formation.
Black 11 and White 12 are miai. If Black captures at A, White connects at

B.
At first sight, it seems that Black might be able to successfully play 11 at

12, creating a dead five-point eye shape. But White will connect at 11 at
the right.
2687
Giving atari at B thereafter will be fruitless for Black. White simply
connects at A, and Black’s stones inside White’s formation have lost their
dead-eye-shape status.
e
e
2688
Lessons learned

…
2689
Next page: Failure
2690
White to live.
2691
2692
1
○●○●○●○●○
> 1
●○●○●○●○●
> 1
> 4
> 1
> 2
3
> 3
> 6
> 7
> 6
> 7
> 12
> 8
> 14
> 3
> 4
> 3
> 7
4
> 4
> 8
> 4
> 4
> 8
5
Next page: Solution
2693
White 2 occupies the vital point of the problem that Black should have
taken beforehand.
2694
3
Further extending to 3 does not benefit Black.
2695
4
White 4 occupies the miai point.
2696
6
Black 5 and White 6 are also miai.
2697
10 8 7 9
Black’s hane at 7 aims at creating a false eye for White at the left.
But eventually, White descends to 10, and is alive with three eyes.
2698
e
e
e
2699
Lessons learned
2700
Do not leave a combination of two dead eye shapes (△) behind, …
2701
… whose central points are still unoccupied.
2702
have taken.
Next page: Failure
2703
White to live.
2704
2705
1
> 1
○●○●○●○●○
> 1
●○●○●○●○●
> 4
> 1
> 2
3
> 3
> 6
> 7
> 6
> 7
> 12
> 8
> 14
> 3
> 4
> 3
> 7
4
> 4
> 8
> 4
> 4
> 8
5
Next page: Solution
2706
taken beforehand.
2707
3
Black extends to 3, giving atari at White’s two stones at the left.
2708
A 4
But White will not connect at A.
She expands her potential eye space at the right, with the hane at 4.
White must not try to create an eye in the top left instead.
2709
5
6
Black blocks at 5.
White descends to 6. Her eye space has become to large now; Black will
not succeed.
2710
9
10 8 7
Black’s placement at 7 aims at exploiting White’s cutting point at the

right.
But White’s diagonal move at 8 makes miai of Black 9 and White 10.
2711
11
Black 11 might capture two white stones.
2712
12
But White calmly recaptures at 12.
2713
13 14
15
Black 13 gives atari to the bottom, aiming at forcing White into a ko fight.
White’s counter-atari at 14 lets Black capture at 15.
2714
17
16
A 18
White calmly connects at 16.
If Black connects at A now, White lives by playing at 17.
Therefore, Black plays at 17 himself, forcing White to give atari at 18.
Black is unable to connect at A, so White has got a living shape.
2715
e
e
2716
Lessons learned
2717
2 2
Think twice before threatening to capture some opponent stones from the
outside.
2718
Your opponent will think twice before solidly connecting some
unimportant stones that are in imminent danger of being captured.
Especially if these are located on the outskirts of their formation.
2719
have.
In the meantime, the bigger fish might bounce off the hook.
2720
2721
2722
have taken.
Next page: Failure
2723
White just played on top of her position.
2724
2725
1
> 1
> 1
○●○●○●○●○
> 4
●○●○●○●○●
> 1
> 2
3
> 3
> 6
> 7
> 6
> 7
> 12
> 8
> 14
> 3
> 4
> 3
> 7
4
> 4
> 8
> 4
> 4
> 8
5
Next page: Solution
2726
Black 5 captures White’s two stones at the left, threatening to continue at

A, making White’s eye at the top false.
2727
6
White connects at 6, securing her eye.
2728
A B
7 8 9
Black’s hane at 7 forces White to block at 8.
Black gives counter-atari at 9, and White is unable to connect at A, due to

Black B.
2729
10
White is forced to capture at 10, thereafter fighting a ko for the life of her
group.
2730
ko
2731
e
○●○●○●○●○●○
2732
2733
Lessons learned
Mind potential lines of false eyes (✕).
You might lose a move while preventing an eye point from becoming a
false one.
2734
!!
!! !!
Next page: Failure
2735
Black just pushed from above.
White to live.
2736
2737
1
>1
>1
> 4
○●○●○●○●○
> 1
●○●○●○●○●
> 2
3
> 3
> 6
> 7
> 6
> 7
> 12
> 8
> 14
> 3
> 4
> 3
> 7
4
> 4
> 8
> 4
> 4
> 8
5
Next page: Solution
2738
taken beforehand.
White must not connect on the point above.
2739
3
Black’s hane at 3 comes too late now.
2740
4
6 5
White blocks at 4.
Black defends his just-played stone with the diagonal move at 5.
White 6 secures life for her group, there will be no ko at the right.
2741
9
A
7 8 B 10
Black 7 and 8 are miai, as are Black 9 and White 10.
White is the owner of the point of A, so B is a real eye.
2742
e
e
2743
Lessons learned
2744
2745
2746
have taken.
Next page: Failure
2747
White just connected solidly on the third line.
Black to kill.
2748
2749
1
>1
>1
> 4
> 1
○●○●○●○●○
> 2
●○●○●○●○●
3
> 3
> 6
> 7
> 6
> 7
> 12
> 8
> 14
> 3
> 4
> 3
> 7
4
> 4
> 8
> 4
> 4
> 8
5
Next page: Solution
2750
2751
4
White defends by playing the diagonal move of 4.
2752
5 6 7
Black 5 attacks White’s cutting point at the left.
White defends at 6, but Black’s second hane at 7 decisively reduces her

2753
2754
Lessons learned
!!
Do not close every hole (!!) in your encirclement without thinking.
2755
!!
!! !!
2756
Mind the remaining cutting points in your formation.
2757
Do not leave a dead eye shape behind, whose central point is still
unoccupied.
2758
Problem 024
White to kill.
2759
2760
○●○●○●○●○
1
●○●○●○●○●
> 1
> 3
> 1
> 1
> 3
2
> 2
> 2
> 2
> 2
6
> 6
Next page: Hints
2761
Hints 024
Black’s maximum potential eye space (●) is elongated, with minor bulky
tendencies at the right.
2762
2763
!! !!
!! !!
There are four holes (!!) in Black’s encirclement.
White will have to consider carefully, which one of these are really
important.
2764
3 3 3
Black’s partial group at the top has only three liberties, and so is quite
2765
White’s descent △ to the first line at the right significantly weakens
Black’s formation nearby.
2766
4 4
Black’s pair of stones at the right has four liberties.
But remember that a blocking move on the first line will take a liberty of
Black’s own group.
Next page: Solution
2767
Solution 024
White’s hane at 1, played from the left, reduces Black’s potential eye
space on the first line.
In principle, a line of eight black stones on the second line would be alive,
but here, there is the gap at the right.
2768
< Excursus – Eight live, six die >
Black’s five stones on the left are stronger than his two stones at the right,
so White must not attack the wrong bunch of stones with her first move.
White will succeed neither by pushing on the first line from the right, nor
by pushing on the third line from the left, nor by wedging in on the second
line at the right.
A C
D
2 B
2769
Black blocks at 2, in an attempt to maximise his potential eye space.
Black might consider playing at A, or descending to B, or connecting at C,

or closing the gap at D, instead.
4 3
Now, White is able to also reduce Black’s potential eye space from the
right, by pushing to 3.
Again, Black’s block at 4 aims at keep as much potential eye space as
2770
possible.
On the first row, there is a line of four empty points now. But this will not
be sufficient for life, due to the defect in Black’s line of stones on the
second line.
Black 5 occupies the vital point at the left.
2771
A
Black 6 tries to divide his potential eye space.
2772
7
Now the time has come for White’s final blow.
White 7 occupies the gap in Black’s line of stones on the second line.
There is nothing that Black could do now.
2773
9 8
10
Black 8 tries to capture White’s just-played stone.
Black will manage to do so, but in the meantime, White 9 and …
2774
11
… White 11 cut at vital points of Black’s formation.
Black can get only a false eye at the right, and so is dead.
2775
2776
Black 6 is a nice try, but there still is Black’s massive shortage of liberties
at the right remaining.
2777
7
White 7 wedges in at the top left.
2778
A B 8
10
11 9
Black 8 solidly connects his stones at the right.
But White 9 is an atari, forcing Black to connect at 10.
White 11 completes the dead eye shape inside Black’s position, so Black’s
group is dead.
2779
2780
Black 2 aims at erasing his massive weaknesses at the right quite early.
2781
5
4 3
But White’s combination of pushing with 3 and 5 will be fatal.
2782
8
B
6 7 9 A
Black 6 blocks at the left, but will not succeed in gaining life for his group.
White 7 occupies the vital point at the left.
Black 8 closes the borders of his formation at the right.
Thereafter, White’s extension to 9 kills Black’s group. Black is unable to

divide his potential eye space with a move at A.
2783
If Black plays at 9 instead, White will throw-in at B, reverting to the main
line of the solution.
2784
Black’s block at 2 aims at defending his potential eye space at the right.
2785
3
But White can still attack Black’s weaknesses at the right, by wedging in
at 3.
2786
4
6 5
Black’s atari at 4 does not help.
White extends to 5, sacrificing two stones, instead of only one.
Black’s only choice is to take a liberty of White’s two stones, by

descending to 6.
2787
7 A
White 7 is an atari, so Black has to capture at 8.
The point of A instead is taboo for him, due to his shortage of liberties at
the right.
2788
A
9
10
White throws in at 9, stopping Black again from connecting at A.
Black captures at 10, but …
2789
11
… will gain only a false eye after White’s atari of 11.
2790
2791
Variation for Black 2 (III)
Closing the hole on the third line, with a move at 2, will not benefit Black.
2792
3
B
A
White A and Black B are miai now.
2793
4
Black blocks at 4, but this will not lead to success either.
2794
A B 6 5 7
White jumps to 5, and Black is unable to intercept at 7.
There is no chance remaining for Black to create a living shape on the

bottom. The points of A and of B are miai.
2795
2796
Variation for Black 2 (IV)
A B
2
Black 2 closes the gap on the second line.
But the points of A and B are miai, so there will be no eye on the third
line.
Black’s potential eye space on the bottom consists of seven points in a
2797
row, but it is White’s turn, and so Black is dead.
White 3 reduces Black’s potential eye space successfully.
2798
4 7 6 5
Black’s block at 4 does not help.
White further pushes at 5, making miai of Black 6 and White 7.
2799
Next page: Failure
2800
White just pushed from the right.
Black to live.
2801
2802
1
○●○●○●○●○
> 1
●○●○●○●○●
> 3
> 1
> 1
> 3
2
> 2
> 2
> 2
> 2
6
> 6
Next page: Solution
2803
Black 2 descends at the left, letting his weaker stones at the right care for
themselves.
2804
4
3
A 5
White’s wedge at 3 attacks Black weaknesses at the left.
Black’s atari at 4 forces Black to extend to 5.
2805
A
8 6 7
Black’s block at 6 is also an atari now.
White 7 connects her two stones.
Black 8 divides his eye space at the left, getting a living shape.
The cutting point of A remains as an endgame issue.
2806
e e
2807
White 3 occupies the vital point at the left.
2808
4
Black 4 blocks at the right, maximising his potential eye space.
2809
6 7
5
8
White 5 attacks Black’s weaknesses at the right, aiming at a shortage of

liberties on Black’s side.
2810
9
10
But here, White 9 and Black 10 are miai.
2811
11
White 11 captures four white stones, but …
2812
12
A
B
… Black is able to recapture at 12.
He is the owner of the point of A, so B is a real eye.
2813
e e
2814
Lessons learned
!! !!
!! !!
Consider carefully, which hole (!!) in your opponent’s encirclement to

attack first.
2815
Think twice before attacking from the side, where you are very strong ( ),
…
2816
3 3 3
4 4
… but your opponent is quite weak.
It might be more promising to weaken your opponent in their stronger

area.
2817
Do not take it for granted that your opponent will answer every of your
moves ( ) locally.
2818
Be aware that your opponent will think twice before saving some
unimportant stones that are located in the outskirts of their formation.
2819
have taken.
Next page: Failure
2820
White just pushed from the left on the top of Black’s position.
Black to live.
2821
2822
1
>1
> 3
○●○●○●○●○
> 1
●○●○●○●○●
> 1
> 3
2
> 2
> 2
> 2
> 2
6
> 6
Next page: Solution
2823
A
2
Black connects at 2, closing the gap at the right. His formation now
consists of eight stones in a row, and is securely alive.
Black must not play at A instead; this move would revert to the main line
of the solution.
2824
3 4 A B 6 5
White reduces Black’s territory with 3 and 5, but is unable to kill Black’s
group. The points of A and B are miai in the final four-point line of empty
points on the bottom.
2825
e e
2826
Lessons learned
!! !!
!! !!

attack first.
2827
2 2 2
Think twice before threatening some weak opponent stones that are
located in the outskirts of their formation.
2828
Do not let your opponent complete a line of eight stones on the second
line, equivalent to six empty points (●) on the first line.
Next page: Failure
2829
White just wedged in at the right.
Black to live.
2830
2831
1
>1
> 3
> 1
○●○●○●○●○
> 1
●○●○●○●○●
> 3
2
> 2
> 2
> 2
> 2
6
> 6
Next page: Solution
2832
2833
4 3 A
White descends to 3, aiming at a shortage of liberties on Black’s side.
However, Black is able to give atari at 4.
2834
5 6
White 5 is a counter-atari.
But Black is able to connect at 6, due to the unoccupied point of A.
2835
8 7
White 7 forces Black to capture at 8, but White is unable to reduce Black’s

group to only one eye.
2836
e
e
2837
White’s hane at 3 aims at connecting to the right.
2838
4
Black 4 captures White’s initially played stone, securing life for his group.
2839
A
6 5
White 5 connects her just-played stone to the outside.
Black’s descent to 7 at the left turns his potential eye space into a line of
four empty points, sufficient for two eyes.
At any time he wants, Black can connect at A.
2840
e e
2841
Lessons learned
2842
Problem 025
Black to kill.
2843
2844
○●○●○●○●○
1
●○●○●○●○●
> 1
> 11
> 13
> 1
> 1
> 2
> 8
> 1
> 3
> 3
> 1
> 1
3
> 3
> 5
5
> 5
> 7
Next page: Hints
2845
Hints 025
White’s potential eye space (●) is quite bulky, but also has an elongated
part in the top right.
2846
White’s partial groups are not yet solidly connected ( ).
2847
!!
!!
!! !!
There are three holes (!!) in White’s encirclement, two smaller ones at the
right and at the top, and a larger one at the left.
2848
2
2849
4
4
4
White’s three stones at the right have four liberties, and so are the weaker
part of her formation.
2850
Black’s formation at the right is very strong, looking forward to giving
support to friendly stones inside White’s formation (◇).
2851
Black’s -stones at the left are also looking forward to friendly stones on
the first line (◇), but …
2852
… Black’s stones at the left are not yet solidly connected ( ), leaving
2853
Black will also have to keep in mind that connecting stones that are
arranged on a zigzag line ( , ✕) might fail, due to a shortage of liberties.
Next page: Solution
2854
Solution 025
Black extends to 1, hindering White from dividing her potential eye space
with ease, by playing at the same point.
Black will succeed neither by pushing from the left, nor by pushing
upwards, nor by jumping into White’s formation from the right, nor by
2855
jumping deep into White’s formation from the right, nor by playing a large
knight’s jump from the left, nor by playing a knight’s jump from the left.
Black threatens to connect to the right, so White answers with the hane at
2.
2856
3 4
Black pushes to 3, reducing White’s potential eye space from the left.
Black will not succeed by playing a turning move at the right instead.
White has to block at 4.
2857
5 6
Black’s hane at 5 is the second step to reduce White’s potential eye space
successfully.
Black will not succeed by pushing upwards at the right.
Again, White has to block Black’s further encroachment, by giving atari at

6.
2858
8
7
9
10
Black 7 extends upwards, threatening to connect out.
White 8 is forced.
Black 9 sacrifices a forth stone, preventing White from capturing three

black stones, by playing at the same point, for a living shape.
White suffers from a shortage of liberties at the right, and so has to give
atari at 10.
2859
11
12
Black cuts at 11 at the top right, simultaneously giving counter-atari.
White 12 captures four black stones in a row, but this will not be sufficient
to gain a living shape.
2860
13
14
15
Black 13 gives atari from the outside, attacking White’s remaining

weakness at the top.
White 14 and Black 15 are miai for the death of White’s group.
2861
Next page: Failure
2862
Black just pushed upward in the centre of White’s formation.
White to live.
2863
2864
1
> 1
> 11
> 13
> 1
> 1
> 2
> 8
> 1
> 3
> 3
> 1
> 1
3
> 3
> 5
5
○●○●○●○●○
> 5
●○●○●○●○●
> 7
Next page: Solution
2865
White 6 is mandatory and stops Black’s stones from connecting to the

outside.
2866
9 B
10 7
A 8
Black follows the course of the correct solution, starting by extending to 7.
In a real game, Black would play the hane at A instead.
Black 9 gives atari at the top, and White is unable to connect at B, due to
her shortage of liberties at the right.
White 10 captures four black stones instead.
2867
11
A
12
Black 11 gives atari at the top.
But there is the empty room on the first line at the left remaining. White
descends to 12 for her second eye.
Capturing at A will be gote for Black now; this move does not have any
effect on the status of White’s group.
2868
e
e
2869
B
7 A
Black 7 is a hane at the left, aiming at reducing White’s potential eye

space.
White in unable to block at A; thereafter, Black B will revert to the course

of the correct solution.
2870
8
White 8 captures three black stones instead.
2871
10
2872
e
2873
Lessons learned
2
2
2
2874
Think twice before forcing your opponent to give atari to some of your
important stones.
2875
Do not leave a combination of two dead eye shapes ( , △) behind, …
2876
… whose central points might become unoccupied at the same time.
Next page: Failure
2877
Black just played a turning move inside White’s formation.
White to live.
2878
2879
1
> 1
> 11
> 13
> 1
> 1
> 2
> 8
> 1
> 3
> 3
> 1
> 1
3
○●○●○●○●○
> 3
●○●○●○●○●
> 5
5
>
> 7
Next page: Solution
2880
White connects at 4, immobilising Black’s three stones inside her

formation.
All of White’s stones are solidly connected now, so there will be no

shortage of liberties on White’s side any longer.
2881
5
Black jumps to 5, midway between his stones at the right and at the left,
aiming at connecting.
Black should not play a diagonal move at the left instead.
2882
A 8
7 6 B
White 6 blocks on the first line.
Black continues at 7 (or at A), and White closes the borders of her
formation, by playing at 8.
White is the owner of the point of B, so she is alive in seki.
2883
n
n
2884
Lessons learned

…
2885
Next page: Failure
2886
Black just played a diagonal move at the left.
White to live.
2887
2888
1
> 1
> 11
> 13
> 1
> 1
> 2
> 8
> 1
> 3
> 3
> 1
> 1
3
> 3
○●○●○●○●○
> 5
●○●○●○●○●
5
> 5
> 7
Next page: Solution
2889
6 A
White 6 blocks on the first line.
If Black started with playing his diagonal move on the first line on the
other side, at A, instead, White would have also answered at 6, leading to a
change in the order of moves.
2890
8 7
9
Black tries the atari of 7 here.
In a real game, Black would play 7 at 8, letting White live by solidly

connecting at 7.
White cuts at 8, giving counter-atari.
2891
11 10
White 10 throws in at the left, creating a massive shortage of liberties on

Black’s side.
2892
13 12
A
The forcing exchange of White 12 for Black 13 is inserted here for

demonstrative purposes.
The cutting point at A in the corner will be very obvious now.
2893
15 14
B A 16
White 14 gives double-atari.
Black is hindered from connecting at A, due to White B, and so connects

at the left instead, with his move at 15.
White 16 captures three black stones.
In a real game, each side might consider playing elsewhere with any of
these three moves, taking sente locally. White is already alive as it stands,
2894
even before her move at 14.
A
17 18
Connecting at Black 17 is only an endgame issue.
White is not forced to capture two black stones, with her move at 18,
because she still has another option for getting two eyes – a move at A.
2895
e e
e
2896
Lessons learned

2897
Next page: Failure
2898
Black just pushed at the left.
White to live.
2899
2900
1
○●○●○●○●○
> 1
●○●○●○●○●
> 11
> 13
> 1
> 1
> 2
> 8
> 1
> 3
> 3
> 1
> 1
3
> 3
> 5
5
> 5
> 7
Next page: Solution
2901
White 2 immobilises Black’s single stone at the right, occupying the vital
point of the problem that Black should have taken beforehand.
2902
3
Black’s large knight’s jump to 3 is his only hope to stop White from
getting a second eye on the bottom.
2903
6 5
7 4
White jumps to 4, cutting into Black’s large knight’s jump.
Black 5 to Black 7 is the “usual” continuation.
2904
9 8
But now, White 8 throws in at the left.
2905
10
White plays the forcing move of 10 at the left, threatening to separate

Black’s stones on the lower edge from the left side.
2906
14
12
13 11
A
Black extends to 11 here, providing maximum resistance.
Black might consider playing hane at 12 instead.
White continues at 12, forcing Black to descend to 13.
White’s turning move at 14 is sente against Black’s corner group. Playing

at A instead will result in a similar outcome.
2907
15
Black 15 brings his stones on the lower edge to life.
2908
17 19
16 18
20
White now cuts at 16, and is will be best for Black to confine White’s
group, by playing atari at 17 and at 19.
White 20 captures a single black stone for her second eye.
2909
e
e
2910
11
It might be better for Black to connect his forces, by playing at 11 here

instead.
2911
12
White 12 gives atari at the right.
2912
16
15 13 14
Black’s connection at 13 (and the following sequence) is shown here for

demonstrative purposes only.
In a real game, Black will connect at 16 instead.
White 14 gives atari at four black stones.
If Black connects at 14, all of his stones on the lower edge will be captured
by White 16.
2913
e
e
2914
Variation for Black 13 (Black 11)
13
In a real game, Black will connect at 13.
2915
15 A 14
White 14 results in a double-atari.
Black is unable to connect at A, and so plays at 15.
2916
16
White is forced to live by capturing at 16.
2917
e
e
e
2918
Lessons learned
2919
Do not leave a dead eye shape behind, in one of two sections of your
opponent’s potential eye space, whose central point is still unoccupied.
You might be unable to occupy this central point successfully.
2920
2921
2922
have taken.
Next page: Failure
2923
Black just pushed upwards at the right.
White to live.
2924
2925
1
> 1
>
11
> 13
○●○●○●○●○
> 1
●○●○●○●○●
> 1
> 2
> 8
> 1
> 3
> 3
> 1
> 1
3
> 3
> 5
5
> 5
> 7
Next page: Solution
2926
White’s atari at 2 is mandatory, blocking Black’s escape route.
2927
4 3
B A
Black’s descent to 3 comes too late now.
White’s descent to 4 is also an atari, immobilising Black’s three stones.
Black has lost a decisive liberty by his initial move. Crossing under at A in
no longer a valid threat, so White is not forced to reply at B (but which
would lead to success, too, resulting in a change in the order of moves).
2928
5 6
Black’s large knight’s jump to 5 aims at destroying White’s potential eyes

on the bottom.
White 6 captures Black’s three stones at the right.
This move has been chosen to clarify the following diagrams; White could
also do without.
2929
7
10 9
11 8
Black’s placement at 7 stops White from getting two eyes at the right quite
easily, by occupying the same point.
White’s jump attachment to 8 aims at creating a shortage of liberties for

Black at the left.
2930
15 14
12
13 A
White 12 gives atari to Black’s single stone on the second line, and Black
will be unable to connect at A.
Black connects at 13, after which the exchange of White 14 for Black 15
makes Black’s shortage of liberties clearly visible.
2931
17
18 16
White 16 gives another atari.
Black’s connection at 17 forces White to capture at 18, securing life for

her group.
2932
e e
e
2933
Lessons learned
2
2
2934
important stones.
2935
Playing inside your opponent’s formation might not serve to reduce the
size of their potential eye space (●).
2936
Next page: Failure
2937
Black just jumped down to the first line at the right.
White to live.
2938
2939
1
> 1
> 11
> 13
> 1
○●○●○●○●○
> 1
●○●○●○●○●
> 2
> 8
> 1
> 3
> 3
> 1
> 1
3
> 3
> 5
5
> 5
> 7
Next page: Solution
2940
White intercepts at 2, securely capturing Black’s single stone above for an

eye.
Please note that White occupied the vital point of the problem that Black
2941
White must not descend at the right instead.
Here, Black tries the jump of 3 to the left.
Black has several other options available, most of which will result in
change in the order of moves to what is shown below.
2942
5
A 4 B
White throws in at 4.
Playing at A, or at B, instead is likely to result in a change in the order of

moves.
2943
6
7 B A C
White gives another atari at 6.
Black cannot connect at A, due to Black B.
Connecting under to the right, by playing at C, instead will be also

frustrated by White B.
White plays the diagonal move of 7 at the left.
2944
9 10 8
White 8 gives atari at the right.
White might consider playing at 9 instead.
Black’s connection at 9 forces White to capture two black stones at 10.

White has got a living shape.
2945
e
e
e
2946
White 8 is another throw-in.
2947
9
2948
10
11
White’s atari of 10 at the left is chosen for demonstrative purposes.
In a real game, she might prefer playing at 11 at the right instead.
Black 11 aims at connecting to the right.
2949
A
B 12
But White captures at 12, and has gained a double-ko on the bottom,
which is equivalent to life for her.
Black cannot connect at B.
If Black – after having played a valid ko threat – recaptures the ko at the

right, by playing at A, White B simply captures the ko at the left.
2950
14 13
Finally, Black will connect at 13 at the right and White will capture at 14
at the left.
2951
e
e e
e
2952
Lessons learned
Do not force your opponent to divide their potential eye space (●).
You might be unable to destroy any of the resulting sections.
2953
2954
have taken.
Next page: Failure
2955
Black to kill.
2956
2957
1
> 1
> 11
> 13
> 1
> 1
○●○●○●○●○
> 2
●○●○●○●○●
> 8
> 1
> 3
> 3
> 1
> 1
3
> 3
> 5
5
> 5
> 7
Next page: Solution
2958
This move threatens to continue with pushing at A, exploiting White’s

shortage of liberties at the right.
2959
4
White 4 solidly connects her troops.
But her remaining potential eye space will not be large enough for two
eyes.
2960
6
7 5
Black plays the knight’s jump to 5, successfully reducing White’s potential

eye space.
White blocks with 6 …
2961
9
8
… and 8, but eventually Black 9 completes the dead eye shape inside
White’s group has only one large eye, and so is dead.
2962
2963
Lessons learned
!!
!!
!!
2964
When defending on the outside, do not leave a dead eye shape ( , △)
2965
4
4
4
4
Descending to the first line might not increase the liberty count of your
group.
2966
Mind the remaining weaknesses in your formation.
2967
have taken.
Next page: Failure
2968
Black just jumped deep into White’s formation from the right.
White to live.
2969
2970
1
> 1
> 11
> 13
>1
>1
> 2
> 8
○●○●○●○●○
> 1
●○●○●○●○●
> 3
> 3
> 1
> 1
3
> 3
> 5
5
> 5
> 7
Next page: Solution
2971
White plays the jump attachment at 2 at the left.
2972
3
A B
Black 3 gives atari from above on White’s just-played stone.
Black might consider giving atari at A at the left, or playing hane at B at

the right, instead.
2973
4
7 5 6
White gives counter-atari at 4.
Black tries the extension of 5, before he captures White’s single stone on

the first line with 7.
2974
9 10
11 8
Black 8 cuts in Black’s knight’s move jump connection at the left.
While Black is busy with capturing White’s just-played stone, by playing

at 9 and at 11, …
2975
12
B A
… White sets the scene for a shortage of liberties on Black’s side.
Eventually, White gives atari at 12, and Black cannot connect, due to
White B.
2976
e
e
e
2977
Black 3 gives atari from the left.
2978
5 4
White gives counter-atari at 4, and Black captures at 5.
2979
A
B 6
White 6 gives atari from the right.
White might also consider playing at A, or at B, instead.
2980
7 8
9 10
Black is unable to connect, and so tries the moves of 7 and 9 here.
But eventually, Black cannot stop White from capturing his two single
stones, getting a living shape.
2981
e e
e
2982
Black tries to connect to the right, by playing hane at 3.
2983
4 5
Black 5 stops White from dividing her eye space quite easily, by playing at
the same point.
2984
6
7 8
White 6 gives atari.
Black connects at 7, aiming at a well-known tesuji, but which is not

available here.
< Excursus – Capturing five stones in a pyramid shape on the edge >
White 8 captures five black stones.
2985
11
9 10
Black’s placement at 9 reduces White’s shape at the right to only one eye.
White 10 and Black 11 are miai, so White will not get more than one eye
here, despite the fact that she has captured five black stones before.
2986
12
But here, White has sufficient options at the left.
She blocks at 12, securing her second eye at the bottom.
2987
e
e
2988
Lessons learned

Next page: Failure
2989
Black just jumped deep into White’s formation from the left.
White to live.
2990
2991
1
> 1
> 11
> 13
>1
>1
> 2
> 8
> 1
> 3
> 3
○●○●○●○●○
> 1
●○●○●○●○●
> 1
3
> 3
> 5
5
> 5
> 7
Next page: Solution
2992
White descends to 2, aiming at exploiting the weakness of Black’s large

knight’s jump.
2993
5
3 4
Black 3 connects under.
White’s throw-in at 4 is answered by Black 5, capturing White’s just-

played stone.
2994
6
9 8 7
White’s atari at 6 aims at exploiting White’s shortage of liberties at the

left.
But after White’s throw-in at 8, Black has to capture at 9.
2995
13
11
14 10 12
White 10 gives atari to Black’s four stones, and Black is unable to connect
at 14, due to White’s counter at 13.
Black tries the extension of 11 at the right, but his plans are frustrated by
White 12.
Black’s connection of 13 at the left forces White to capture at 14.
2996
15 16
Recapturing at 15 does not benefit Black.
This move and White 16 are miai for at least one eye for White at the left.
2997
e e
e
2998
Lessons learned

2999
Next page: Failure
3000
025 Problem (failure X)
White to live.
3001
3002
1
> 1
> 11
> 13
>1
>1
> 2
> 8
> 1
> 3
> 3
> 1
○●○●○●○●○
> 1
●○●○●○●○●
3
> 3
> 5
5
> 5
> 7
Next page: Solution
3003
025 Solution (failure X)
2
A
Black’s knight’s jump from the left is quite dangerous, as it threatens to

revert to the sequence of the correct solution – only after a white mistake,
of course.
3004
taken beforehand.
This move threatens to continue at A, establishing an eye either at the right

or at the left.
5
4 3
Black 3 frustrates White’s plans – for the time being – by occupying the
point that White wanted to take.
White 4 cuts into Black’s knight’s move at the left.
3005
A 7
6
She cannot give atari at A instead. Black would connect at 6, and his
connected stones would have one liberty too many, erasing Black’s
Black has to capture at 7, if he wants to stop White from getting a living

shape quite easily.
3006
8
9
White’s atari at 8 is answered by Black 9, capturing White’s troublemaker

on the first line at the left.
3007
11
10
B A 12
White’s atari at 10 secures life for her group.
Black is unable to connect at A, due to White’s counter at 11.
Black 11 connects solidly, erasing his decisive weakness at the left.
After White 12, two black stones are in atari, and Black is still unable to
connect at A, due to White B.
3008
e
e
e
3009
Lessons learned
3010
3011
have taken.
3012
Problem 026
White to kill.
3013
3014
○●○●○●○●○
1
●○●○●○●○●
> 1
> 1
> 1
> 1
> 1
> 2
> 1
> 3
> 4
2
> 2
> 4
3
> 3
Next page: Hints
3015
Hints 026
Black’s potential eye space (●) is quite bulky on the bottom, but winding
at the top.
3016
Black’s partial groups are not yet solidly connected ( ).
3017
!!
!! !!
There are three holes (!!) in Black’s formation, one at the top, and one at
each side on the bottom line.
3018
1
Black’s single stone at the top has only one liberty, and so is in imminent
However, this stone is positioned at the outskirts of Black’s formation, so

it might be on the board to bedazzle your mind only.
3019
1
White’s single stone inside Black’s formation has only one liberty, and so
is also in imminent danger of being captured.
3020
There is a dead three-point eye shape ( , △) visible inside Black’s
formation, whose central point is still unoccupied.
3021
Another dead three-point eye shape (△) on the bottom, which is entirely
empty.
3022
White’s formation at the left ( ) is strong, looking forward to a friendly
stone on any of the ◇-points on the first line.
3023
White will have to remember that connecting stones out that are arranged
on a zigzag line ( , ✕) might suffer from a shortage of liberties.
3024
White’s formation on the right is also strong, giving Black no scope for
action in this area.
Next page: Solution
3025
Solution 026
White’s extension to 1 sacrifices two stones, instead of only one.

Simultaneously, this move stops Black from easily dividing his potential
eye space, by playing at the same point.
White will succeed neither by immediately capturing Black’s single stone
3026
at the top, nor by playing hane from above inside Black’s formation, nor
by playing hane at the bottom left, nor by playing a jump from the left onto
the first line, nor by jumping deep into Black’s formation from the left, nor
by playing hane from the right.
Black 2 closes the gap at the top of his position, giving atari to White’s
two stones.
3027
Black might consider playing at A from below instead.
White’s hane at 3 serves to reduce Black’s potential eye space

successfully.
White will not succeed playing a turning move in the centre of Black’s
formation instead.
3028
5
4 A B
Black blocks with the atari at 4.
White’s turning move at 5 creates a dead three-point eye shape inside

Black’s position.
This move also reduces Black’s partial group at right to only two liberties,
so Black has no time to further enlarge his potential eye space, by
descending to A at the right, due to White B.
3029
B 6 A 7
Black 6 gives atari to White’s three stones above.
Playing at A instead will not benefit Black either. White will connect at B
at the left, leaving a dead eye shape inside Black’s formation behind.
White’s hane at 7 destroys Black’s potential eye at the bottom, giving atari
to Black’s stones above.
3030
8
Capturing at 8 is fruitless.
3031
9
White 9 occupies the central point of Black’s eye space, and Black is dead.
3032
3033
Black 2 attacks White’s two stones from below.
3034
A
White chooses the placement at 3, threatening to connect out on the

bottom.
White does not connect at A, because Black would live by taking the point
of 3 himself.
3035
4
Black 4 captures White’s two stones.
3036
5 A B
White 5 connects her just-played stone to the left.
The remaining space on the first line is not large enough for building an
eye. The points of A and B are miai.
3037
3038
Black descends to 4, aiming at living at the bottom.
3039
5
White is forced to connect his two stones out, by playing at 5.
3040
7 6
Black 6 and White 7 are miai. Black is dead with only one eye.
3041
Next page: Failure
3042
White just played a turning move inside Black’s formation.
Black to live.
3043
3044
1
> 1
> 1
> 1
> 1
> 1
> 2
> 1
> 3
> 4
2
> 2
> 4
3
○●○●○●○●○
> 3
●○●○●○●○●
Next page: Solution
3045
Black’s stones at the right have only two liberties, and so are in imminent
danger to become captured.
Black 4 gives atari to White’s three stones.
3046
6
5
The hane of White 5 is a counter-atari.
3047
8
White 7 and Black 8 are miai for the life of Black’s group.
3048
e
e
3049
Lessons learned
2 2
2
3050
3051
Creating a dead eye shape ( ) inside your opponent’s formation might not
be sufficient for success, …
3052
… if your opponent’s remaining potential eye space contains too many
empty points (●).
Next page: Failure
3053
White just played at the top of Black’s position.
Black to live.
3054
3055
1
○●○●○●○●○
> 1
●○●○●○●○●
> 1
> 1
> 1
> 1
> 2
> 1
> 3
> 4
2
> 2
> 4
3
> 3
Next page: Solution
3056
taken beforehand.
3057
3 4 6 5
White’s hane at 3 and at 5 reduce Black’s territory a bit.
But Black 4 and 6 secure his second eye for life.
3058
e
e
3059
Lessons learned
Think twice before capturing a single opponent stone.
Especially if this stone is located at the outskirts of your opponent’s

formation.
3060
3061
have taken.
Next page: Failure
3062
White just placed another stone inside Black’s formation.
Black to live.
3063
3064
1
> 1
○●○●○●○●○
> 1
●○●○●○●○●
> 1
> 1
> 1
> 2
> 1
> 3
> 4
2
> 2
> 4
3
> 3
Next page: Solution
3065
taken beforehand.
3066
3 4 5 6
White’s hane at 3 is answered by Black’s atari at 4.
White’s descent to 5 is fruitless.
Black 6 is an atari to White’s two stones, resulting in a snap-back.
3067
e
e
3068
Lessons learned
3069
have taken.
Next page: Failure
3070
Black to live.
3071
3072
1
> 1
> 1
○●○●○●○●○
> 1
●○●○●○●○●
> 1
> 1
> 2
> 1
> 3
> 4
2
> 2
> 4
3
> 3
Next page: Solution
3073
Black blocks with the atari at 2.
3074
3
White’s extension to 3 comes too late now.
3075
5
White 4 gives atari from below, forcing White to connect at 5.
3076
B
6 A
Eventually, Black 6 captures White’s pivotal stone.
Black is the owner of the point of A, so B is a real eye.
3077
e
e
3078
Lessons learned
3079
line of empty points (●; “snake”).
3080
Remember that you will need permanent stones on both ends of a potential
line of false eyes ( , ✕) to make such a line work.
Next page: Failure
3081
White just jumped into Black’s position on the first line.
Black to live.
3082
3083
1
> 1
> 1
> 1
○●○●○●○●○
> 1
●○●○●○●○●
> 1
> 2
> 1
> 3
> 4
2
> 2
> 4
3
> 3
Next page: Solution
3084
taken beforehand.
3085
5
3 4
White extends to 3, connecting her pivotal stone out.
Black’s diagonal move at 4 makes miai of White 5 and …
3086
A
B 6
… Black 6, so Black is alive.
White is unable to further approach at A, so B is a real eye.
3087
e
3088
Lessons learned
Do not allow your opponent to divide their potential eye space (●), if you
are unable to destroy all but one of the resulting sections thereafter.
3089
have taken.
Next page: Failure
3090
White just jumped deep into Black’s position from the left.
Black to live.
3091
3092
1
> 1
> 1
> 1
> 1
○●○●○●○●○
> 1
●○●○●○●○●
> 2
> 1
> 3
> 4
2
> 2
> 4
3
> 3
Next page: Solution
3093
2
A
Black extends to 2, immobilising White’s single stone at the top.
Simultaneously, Black sets the scene for a white shortage of liberties at the
bottom left.
3094
5
3 4
White tries to connect out, by playing hane at 4.
But she is stopped by Black’s throw-in of 4.
3095
B A 6
Black 6 gives atari. White is unable to connect at A, due to Black B.
3096
e
e
e
3097
Black’s diagonal move at 2 captures all of White’s stones inside his

formation.
3098
3
White’s extension to 3 comes too late now.
3099
4
6 5
A
White is able to connect at 4, also saving her single stone above.
White connects at 5, and Black is unable to approach from the right, at A.
But Black has sufficient liberties left on the other side, and gives atari to
White’s four stones at 6.
3100
e
3101
Lessons learned

3102
Next page: Failure
3103
White just played hane at the right.
Black to live.
3104
3105
1
>1
>1
>1
>1
>1
> 2
○●○●○●○●○
> 1
●○●○●○●○●
> 3
> 4
2
> 2
> 4
3
> 3
Next page: Solution
3106
taken beforehand.
3107
A 3
White jumps to 3.
3108
A 4
Black intercepts at 4.
Black might consider playing the diagonal move at A instead.
3109
7
5 6
White tries to connect her stone out, by playing hane at 5. But she will
Black throws in at 6, and White captures at 7.
3110
8
B A
Black 8 is a double-atari. White is unable to connect at A, due to Black B.
3111
e
e
e
3112
Black plays the diagonal move at 4.
3113
6
5 A
White connects at 5, but Black’s atari at 6 secures his second eye.
3114
e
e
3115
White’s jump at 3 threatens to connect to the left.
3116
4
Black descends to 4.
3117
7
6 5
White tries the move at 5, but she will suffer from a shortage of liberties.
Black throws in at 6, forcing White to connect at 7.
3118
8
A B
Black 8 is a double-atari.
White is unable to connect at A, due to Black B.
3119
e
e
e
3120
Lessons learned
3121
Do not allow your opponent to divide their potential eye space (●), if you
are unable to destroy all but one of the resulting sections thereafter.
3122
Connecting stones out that are arranged on a zigzag line ( , ✕) …
3123
3124
have taken.
3125
Problem 027
Black to kill.
3126
3127
○●○●○●○●○
1
●○●○●○●○●
> 1
> 1
> 2
> 3
2
> 2
> 2
3
> 3
> 3
Next page: Hints
3128
Hints 027
3129
3130
!!
!!
!!
There are two holes (!!) in White’s encirclement, a smaller one at the top,
and a larger one at the right.
3131
Black’s -stone at the right is very strong, but a bit far away from White’s
formation.
3132
White’s maximum potential eye space (●) might increase by two points at
the utmost right.
3133
Black will have to keep in mind that it needs permanent stones on both
ends of such a line to make it work.
3134
2
2 2
White’s three stones at the left have only two liberties, and so are quite
Please note that Black cannot give atari to these stones immediately.
3135
4
4 4 4 4 4
4
White’s two other groups have four liberties.
Next page: Solution
3136
Solution 027
C
B
A 1
Black’s placement of 1 at the first line addresses White’s massive

weaknesses at the left.
This move threatens to continue with Black A, White B and Black C,

capturing White’s stones at the left quite easily.
3137
Black will succeed neither by playing at the centre of White’s formation
on the second line, nor by playing hane at the right.
2 A
B
White 2 takes a liberty of Black’s just-played stones.
To be continued …
White might consider playing the diagonal move of A, or immediately

connecting at B, instead.
3138
3139
White’s diagonal move at 2 is a desperate attempt, but will end in vain.
To be continued …
3140
3141
White connects solidly at 2 here, also taking a liberty from Black’s stone
on the first line.
To be continued …
3142
3143
Black to kill.
3144
3145
1
> 1
> 1
> 2
> 3
2
> 2
> 2
○●○●○●○●○
3
●○●○●○●○●
> 3
> 3
Next page: Hints
3146
sections.
3147
3148
!!
!!
!!
3149
2
2 2
Please note that Black cannot give atari to these stones immediately.
3150
2
Black’s single stone at the first line has only two liberties, and so is in
3151
3152
Black’s strong -stone at the right is quite far away, but might be able to
provide some support nevertheless.
Next page: Solution
3153
Black 3 jumps to the right on the first line.
Black will succeed neither by extending on the first line, nor by playing
hane at the right.
3154
4
White’s hane at 4 aims at stopping Black from connecting to the right.
3155
5
But Black’s jump attachment at 5 will rescue his stones on the bottom.
3156
8 9
7 6
Black connects at 7, leaving White helpless.
White 8 and Black 9 are miai now.
White has no option left to capture any of Black’s stones on the bottom,
and so is dead.
3157
11
10
White’s throw-in at 10 does not help here.
Black captures at 11, and …
3158
12
13
… White is handicapped by the fact that she has to close the hole at 12.
Black 13 captures White’s single stone at the right, erasing his potential
3159
14
15
White gives atari at 14, but Black can safely connect at 15.
3160
Next page: Failure
3161
Black just extended on the first line.
3162
3163
1
> 1
> 1
> 2
> 3
2
> 2
> 2
3
○●○●○●○●○
> 3
●○●○●○●○●
> 3
Next page: Solution
3164
White’s jump attachment to 4 is her only choice to stop Black from

connecting out to the right.
Please note that White occupied the vital point that Black should have
taken beforehand.
3165
5 6
7
Black continues with the “usual” atari at 5.
After Black captures with 7, …
3166
8
A B 9
… White 8 gives atari from above.
Please note that White must take Black’s two stones at the left a liberty;
otherwise Black would win after giving atari at A.
Black is unable to connect at B, due to White 9, and has to extend to 9.
3167
10
White 10 now captures Black’s single stone, beginning a ko fight for the
life of her group.
3168
ko
This ko is disadvantageous for Black. Not only does he have to look for
the first valid ko threat. In addition, White has an internal ko threat up her
sleeves.
3169
e
e
○●○●○●○●○●○
3170
11
12
13
Black 11 is a valid ko threat that White answers with 12.
Black 13 recaptures the ko on the bottom.
3171
14
16 15
White uses the extension to 14 as an internal ko threat.
Black is unable to connect the ko, with a move at 16, due to White’s atari
at 15.
Black extends to 15 instead, letting White recapture the ko with 16.
3172
17
18
19
3173
20
21
Black ignores White’s ko threat 20 to connect at 21, ending the ko fight.
3174
3175
Lessons learned
3176
3 3
3177
have taken.
Next page: Failure
3178
White to live.
3179
3180
1
> 1
> 1
> 2
> 3
2
> 2
> 2
3
> 3
○●○●○●○●○
> 3
●○●○●○●○●
Next page: Solution
3181
White extends solidly to 4, immobilising Black’s stone at the left.
3182
B
A
5
Black 5 aims at connecting this stone out, but will end in vain.
In a real game, Black will play at A instead, letting White live by playing
at 5 herself.
Capturing or connecting at B will be left as an endgame issue thereafter.
3183
6 B
8 7 A
White connects at 6, and is one step ahead.
Black’s further extension to 7 is fruitless.
White gives atari at 8, and Black is unable to connect at A, due to White B.
Black might connect at B now, but this move will not kill White either.
Capturing Black’s three stones, with a move at A, will provide White with
her second eye.
3184
e
e
3185
Lessons learned
3186
3187
3188
Black to kill.
3189
3190
1
> 1
> 1
> 2
> 3
2
○●○●○●○●○
> 2
●○●○●○●○●
> 2
3
> 3
> 3
Next page: Hints
3191
sections.
3192
3193
2
2 2
3194
4
4 4 4 4 4
4 4
White’s other groups all have four liberties, and so are not likely to
3195
3
Black’s single stone on the first line has three liberties.
3196
!!
!!
There is still a hole (!!) in White’s encirclement, a larger one at the right.
3197
Black’s strong -stone at the right is quite far away, but also looking
forward to giving support to friendly stones, should it become necessary.
Next page: Solution
3198
Black’s stone on the bottom is left with sufficient liberties to enable the
atari at 3.
3199
5
4
If White connects at 4, Black gives another atari at 5.
3200
6 7
8
Connecting and giving atari will continue, with White 6 and Black 7.
White 8 captures two black stones, but this will not be sufficient for life.
3201
9
Black 9 connects his just-played stone to the right, and White is dead.
3202
3203
Black to kill.
3204
3205
1
> 1
> 1
> 2
> 3
2
> 2
○●○●○●○●○
> 2
●○●○●○●○●
3
> 3
> 3
Next page: Hints
3206
sections.
3207
e
At the left, there is a sure eye for White.
3208
? ? ? ?
? ? ? ?
Black will have to stop White from creating her second eye in the ?-area at
the right.
3209
3210
!!
!!
!!
3211
Black’s strong -stone at the right is quite far away, but might be able to
provide some support nevertheless.
3212
Next page: Solution
3213
Black jumps to 3 in order to connect his pivotal stone to the right.
3214
4
White’s hane at 4 follows the course of the solution’s main line.
3215
8 9
7 5 6
Black’s second jump to 5 successfully rescues his stones on the bottom.
After Black 7, White 8 and Black 9 are miai.
3216
Next page: Failure
3217
White to live.
3218
3219
1
○●○●○●○●○
> 1
●○●○●○●○●
> 1
> 2
> 3
2
> 2
> 2
3
> 3
> 3
Next page: Solution
3220
White solidly connects at 2.
Her eye space on the bottom has become too large now, with no
weaknesses any longer that could be exploited by Black.
3221
4 3
Black 3 attacks White’s weakness at the left, but White calmly connects at
4.
There is no way for Black to connect his two stones out into the open.
3222
5
Black’s jump to 5 is a nice try.
3223
8 6
A 7 B
White blocks at 6 on the second line.
Black tries to connect, by playing at 7.
But White 8 gives atari to two black stones. Black is unable to connect at
A, due to White B.
White will get a living shape by capturing these two stones.
3224
e e
e
3225
Lessons learned
!!
Do not force your opponent to solidify their formation by closing a hole

(!!) in their encirclement.
3226
Next page: Failure
3227
Black just played hane on the right.
White to live.
3228
3229
1
> 1
○●○●○●○●○
> 1
●○●○●○●○●
> 2
> 3
2
> 2
> 2
3
> 3
> 3
Next page: Solution
3230
A 2
White blocks by descending to 2.
White might consider defending at A instead.
3231
3
A
Black’s attachment at 3 threatens to connect either above, or along the

bottom to the right.
3232
4
White 4 closes the hole in her formation.
3233
B D
6 A 5 C
Black’s move at 5 will not work.
White’s diagonal move at 6 is one option for immobilising Black’s -

stone (an atari at B would work as well).
Black is unable to connect at A, due to White B, Black C and White D.
3234
e e
e
3235
Black 3 attacks White’s remaining weakness at the left.
3236
4
A
White 4 takes a liberty of Black’s intruder, frustrating Black’s hope to give

atari at A.
3237
6 B
8 7 5 A
Black’s double-hane at 5 aims at connecting out, but Black will not

succeed here.
White’s solid connection at 6 forces Black to connect at 7.
Thereafter, White 8 is an atari that Black cannot connect. The points of A

and B are miai now. Capturing at least three black stones will provide
White with her second eye.
3238
e
e
3239
White’s diagonal move at 2 will result in life for her group, too.
3240
4
3
6 5
Black 3 and White 4 are miai. White is able to connect all of her stones.
Black 5 and White 6 are also miai for the life of White’s group.
3241
e e
e
3242
Lessons learned
3243
3244
, ✕) might fail, due to a shortage of liberties.
3245
Problem 028
Black to kill.
3246
3247
○●○●○●○●○
1
●○●○●○●○●
> 1
> 1
2
> 2
> 3
> 9
> 2
> 3
> 9
5
> 5
> 6
Next page: Hints
3248
Hints 028
White’s potential eye space is quite large, bulky at the left and elongated at
the right.
3249
Please note that one of these cutting points is already occupied by a black
stone, significantly weakening White’s formation.
3250
3
3 3
3 3
3 3
Most of White’s partial groups have only three liberties, and so are quite
3251
2
Black’s single cutting stone inside White’s formation has only two
liberties, and so is in imminent danger of being captured quite easily.
3252
Black’s -stones at the right are strong, but positioned only on the third
line.
This might provide White with some additional scope for action in this
area.
3253
White’s maximum potential eye space (●) might increase by one point on
the first line at the right.
3254
Please note that the marked tiny area of only three points (●) might contain
sufficient potential for independent life.
3255
!!
!!
At the left, there is a large hole (!!) in White’s encirclement.
3256
However, Black’s stones at the left are not yet solidly connected ( ),
leaving cutting points for White to exploit.
3257
Black will have to remember that connecting stones out that are arranged
on a zigzag line ( , ✕) might suffer from a shortage of liberties.
3258
At the left, there are two lines of false eyes ( , ✕) visible, which share
their end point.
Please remember that Black will need a permanent stone on both ends of
such a line of false eyes to make it work.
3259
At the right, there is another line of false eyes ( , ✕) available for Black.
Again, it might become quite challenging to establish a permanent stone

on its second end on the first line.
Next page: Solution
3260
Solution 028
1
A
Black extends to 1, offering two stones as a sacrifice, instead of only one.
Black’s two stones have three liberties now, so the atari at A has become a
real threat for capturing White’s stones at the right.
Black will succeed neither by playing a diagonal move in the corner, nor
3261
by pushing in the corner from the left.
C A
B 2
White 2 secures an eye for her right-hand group.
This move threatens to continue with a move at A, building a living shape

for her stones at the right.
White might consider playing hane at B, or attaching at C, instead.
3262
B
3 A
Black further descends to 3.
This move reanimates the threat of giving atari at A, capturing White’s

stones at the right.
White is unable to attack Black’s three stones from the outside, e.g. with a
move at B. Black’s group still has two liberties left, and so is not hindered
from giving atari at A.
3263
A
4
White 4 connects, reanimating her threat of living by extending to A at the

right.
3264
A 5
Black’s three stones at the left have only three liberties, so Black has no
time to lose.
Black’s jump to 5 threatens to continue with the atari at A, capturing

White’s stones on the bottom.
Black should not thoughtlessly block on the second line instead, because
the result of this line would not be independent from the rest of the board.
3265
6 7
A
White extends to 6, creating a shortage of liberties for Black in sente.
Black must answer at 7, but still is unable to approach at A.
3266
12
8
10 11 9
White 8 continues on the left, occupying a liberty of Black’s three stones.
While White is busy with capturing Black’s stones at the left, Black
approaches at the right, by playing at 9 and at 11.
White captures at 12, but only three black stones.
3267
13
Black 13 occupies the central point of White’s potential eye space, killing
her group.
At the right, there is only a false eye.
3268
3269
White 2 plays hane from below.
To be continued …
3270
3271
White 2 attaches at the left.
To be continued …
3272
Next page: Failure
3273
Black just blocked at the right.
3274
3275
1
> 1
> 1
2
> 2
> 3
> 9
> 2
> 3
> 9
5
○●○●○●○●○
> 5
●○●○●○●○●
> 6
Next page: Solution
3276
White 6 plays hane at the right, occupying the point that Black should have
taken beforehand.
White must not occupy a liberty of Black’s three stones at the left instead.
3277
A 8
B 7
If White has a strong outside position at the bottom right, Black will have
to block with the atari of 7.
Otherwise, he would be able to connect his three stones in the corner, by

playing at A or at B.
White 8 takes a liberty of Black’s three stones.
3278
9
Black captures at 9, starting a ko fight for the life of White’s group.
However, fighting a ko still is a success for White, because Black missed

his opportunity to kill her group unconditionally.
3279
ko
From White’s point of view, this is an approach-move ko, disadvantageous

for her.
< Excursus – Ko fights (II) >
3280
●○●○●○●○●○●
In this special problem, we can distinguish two phases of the ko fight.
Phase #1 is advantageous for Black. White has to look for the first ko
threat and is unable to finish the ko fight in one move, by just connecting
the ko.
3281
11
10
12
White 10 is a valid ko threat that Black answers with 11.
3282
13
14 15
White ignores Black’s ko threat of 13 in order to give atari at 14.
White’s move at 14 can be considered to be an “approach-move”, turning

the ko fight into a direct one. From here on, White can win the ko by also
ignoring only one single ko threat of her opponent.
Black 15 recaptures the ko, giving atari to White’s five stones.
3283
16
White 16 captures Black’s three stones at the left.
3284
17 A
18
Black is forced to occupy the central point of White’s eye shape, by

playing at 17, but there is still the ko at the right remaining. This implies
that capturing Black’s three stones (with 16) was an internal ko threat for
White.
White cannot connect at A, but has to recapture that ko, with her move at
18.
3285
●○●○●○●○●○●
Phase #2 of this problem’s ko fight begins now.
C
A
B
From here on, the ko is favourable for White. Black has to start the search
for valid ko threats.
With Black’s three stones being captured, White has a lot of internal ko
threats in the corner up her sleeves. Pushing at A threatens to capture
3286
Black’s single stone in the corner, simultaneously creating cutting points
in Black’s connection along the left edge ( , ✕). These cutting points of
B and C will be the source of several additional internal ko threats for
White.
20
19
21
3287
23 22
24
White’s push at 22 to the left is her first internal ko threat.
3288
26
25
27
Black 25 is his second valid ko threat.
3289
28
29 30
White’s cut at 28 is another internal ko threat.
3290
32
31
33
Black 31 is his third valid ko threat.
3291
35
34
36
White still has the cut of ‘'34’' on the other side available.
3292
38
37
39
Black 37 is his forth valid ko threat.
3293
42
40 41
Black ignores White’s atari at 40 in the corner to connect the ko at the

right, by playing at 41.
After White 42 captured in the corner, the ko fight has simply changed
places.
3294
43
44
White ignores Black’s ko threat of 43 in order to capture at 44, ending the

ko fight.
This is the typical characteristic of an approach-move ko: One side (here:

White) has to ignore more ko threats (here: two) than the other one (here:
Black) in order to win the ko fight.
However, in phase #2 of this special problem, Black must have four
3295
external ko threats more than White. Therefore – in a real game – it might
be quite unlikely that Black will be able to win this ko fight after White
ignored one of his ko threats.
e
e e e
3296
3297
Lessons learned
ko
In a semeai, do not let your opponent utilise a ko shape for creating an

approach move issue on your side.
3298
have taken.
Next page: Failure
3299
White just occupied a liberty of Black’s three stones at the left.
Black to kill.
3300
3301
1
> 1
> 1
2
> 2
> 3
> 9
> 2
> 3
> 9
5
> 5
○●○●○●○●○
> 6
●○●○●○●○●
Next page: Solution
3302
Black 7 descends at the right.
3303
10
8 9
White continues with taking black liberties at the left.
Black’s atari at 9 forces White to capture at 10.
3304
11
However, capturing only three stones is equivalent to only one eye.
Black’s throw-in at 11 is fatal.
3305
13 12
14
15
White tries to attack at the left, starting with her move at 12, but …
3306
16 17
… all her throw-in on the first line will be fruitless.
3307
19
18
20
White gives atari at 18, but there will be no shortage of liberties on Black’s
side.
Black calmly connects at 19.
Capturing at 20 creates only a false eye.
3308
21
Black is able to solidly connect at 21, leaving White dead with only one
eye.
3309
3310
Lessons learned
Capturing only a dead eye shape ( ) will not lead to success.
3311
have taken.
3312
Black to kill.
3313
3314
1
> 1
> 1
2
○●○●○●○●○
> 2
●○●○●○●○●
> 3
> 9
> 2
> 3
> 9
5
> 5
> 6
Next page: Hints
3315
White’s maximum potential eye space is already divided into two sections.
3316
3317
2 2
2
2
Two of White’s partial groups have only two liberties, and so are very
3318
3
3 3
4
3
White’s other partial groups have three, respectively four, liberties.
3319
2
2
Black’s cutting stones inside White’s formation have only two liberties,
and so are in imminent danger of being captured quite easily.
3320
At the left, there is a dead eye shape ( , △) visible inside White’s
formation, whose central point is not yet occupied.
3321
Another dead eye shape (△) at the bottom right that is entirely empty.
Next page: Solution
3322
The placement of Black 3 destroys White’s potential eye space at the right.
Black must not play atari to White’s single stone on the first line instead.
3323
4
White 4 immobilises Black’s two stones in the corner.
3324
A 5
B 6 7
Black 5 and 7 attack at the right, aiming at White’s shortage of liberties.
3325
8
Capturing at White 8 is fruitless.
3326
9
Black 9 also captures two stones, and White is dead.
There are no options left for White in the corner.
3327
11 10
14 13
15 12
White tries her best in the corner, starting by descending to 10, but all her
efforts will end in vain.
3328
17
B
A 16
White connects at 16, but Black returns the favour at 17.
If White gives double-atari at A now, Black calmly connects at B. White

has only one eye, and so is dead.
3329
Next page: Failure
3330
028 Problem (variation I – failure)
Black just played atari to White’s single stone on the edge.
3331
3332
1
> 1
> 1
2
> 2
○●○●○●○●○
> 3
●○●○●○●○●
> 9
> 2
> 3
> 9
5
> 5
> 6
Next page: Solution
3333
028 Solution (variation I – failure)
White 4 occupies the point at the right that Black should have taken
beforehand.
3334
5
Black captures at 5, giving atari at White’s three stones. But he has to fight
an uncalled-for ko for the life of White’s group.
3335
ko
3336
●○●○●○●○●○●
3337
6
7
White 6 is a valid ko threat that is answered by White 7.
3338
9
A
10
White ignores Black’s ko threat of 9 in order to connect the ko at 10.
Black might consider connecting at A instead.
3339
11
Black will be unable to save his two stones, by connecting at 11.
In a real game, he will have to sacrifice these two stones.
3340
12
15 14 13
White attacks now, by descending to 12 and playing the throw-in at 14.
3341
18 16
17
Black’s useless flights ends with White 18.
3342
e
e
3343
If – in a real game – Black runs out of valid ko threats, he will connect at

9.
3344
B A
10
Very likely, White will connect at 10, ending the ko fight, and making
miai of A and B for the life of her group.
3345
11 12 13
14
Black will save his stones at the left, by connecting at 11, letting White
live at the right, with her moves at 12 and 14.
3346
e
e
3347
Lessons learned
3348
When attacking, do not leave a dead eye shape (△) behind, whose central
3349
ko
In a semeai, do not let your opponent create a ko shape for defence.
3350
have taken.
3351
Black to kill.
3352
3353
1
> 1
> 1
2
> 2
3>
> 9
○●○●○●○●○
> 2
●○●○●○●○●
> 3
> 9
5
> 5
> 6
Next page: Hints
3354
White’s potential eyes space consists of a winding line of points, with

sufficient options for partitioning.
3355
3356
2 2
2
One of White’s partial groups has only two liberties, and so is very
3357
3
3 3
4
3 3
White’s other partial groups have three, respectively four, liberties.
3358
2
2
Black’s cutting stones inside White’s formation have only two liberties,
and so are in imminent danger of being captured quite easily.
3359
At the left, there is a dead eye shape ( , △) visible inside White’s
formation, whose central point is already occupied by Black.
3360
Another dead eye shape (△) at the bottom right that is entirely empty.
3361
Black’s formation at the might be weaker than it looks like.

3362
Black’s -stones at the right are strong, but positioned only on the third
line.
Next page: Solution
3363
Black’s placement of 3 destroys White’s potential eye space at the right.
Black must not give atari to White’s three stones instead.
3364
4
White 4 captures Black’s two stones.
3365
A 5
B 6 7
Thereafter, Black attacks at the right, by playing at 5 and at 7.
White is unable to connect at A, due to Black B, and so is dead with only

one eye.
3366
Next page: Failure
3367
028 Problem (variation II – failure)
White to live.
3368
3369
1
> 1
> 1
2
> 2
> 3
> 9
> 2
○●○●○●○●○
> 3
●○●○●○●○●
> 9
5
> 5
> 6
Next page: Solution
3370
028 Solution (variation II – failure)
White connection of 4 is mandatory.
3371
5 A
Black plays the hane at 5, aiming at creating a ko shape around the point of
A.
3372
7
6 A
Black cuts at 7, but White will not capture at A now.
3373
8
White connects at 8, giving atari to Black’s two stones.
3374
9 A
3375
11
A
12 10
Once more, White refrains from capturing Black’s two stones that are in
atari.
She gives atari at 10 on the first line instead.
Black 11 connects at the left edge.
White still has the extension to A available as an emergency measure, so it

does not make any sense for Black to connect at 12 instead.
3376
White 12 captures three black stones for two eyes.
3377
Black connects at 9, but will end in vain.
The tesuji of sacrificing five stones on the edge will not work here.
3378
10
White captures Black’s five stones at 10.
3379
11
Black 11 reduces the empty space inside White’s formation to only one
eye in gote, in principle.
3380
C
A B
12
But here, White will live after her connection at 12.
White has three options now for creating two eyes, moves at A, at B, or at
C. Black could destroy only two of these, so White is alive.
3381
3382
Lessons learned
Think twice before giving atari to opponent stones!
3383
2
2
2
3384
Next page: Failure
3385
Black just played a diagonal move in the corner.
White to live.
3386
3387
1
○●○●○●○●○
> 1
●○●○●○●○●
> 1
2
> 2
> 3
> 9
> 2
> 3
> 9
5
> 5
> 6
Next page: Solution
3388
White intercepts by descending to 2.
3389
5 4
Black tries to connect along the edge, by playing at 3 and at 5. But he has
too many cutting points to protect to be successful.
3390
8
6
7
White gives atari at 6, and Black connects at 7 on the first line.
White 8 captures one black stone. Black’s hopes that this capture will only
result in a false eye will be frustrated very soon.
3391
B
A 10 9
Black’s placement at 9, in attempt to spoil White’s eye shape at the right,

comes too late now.
Connecting at A instead will not help either. White will throw in at B,

creating a snap-back in the corner.
Connecting at B will be slightly better for Black, but still not fatal. White
will throw in at A, and thereafter capture Black’s three stones again,
3392
starting with the atari at 10.
White’s final atari at 10 decides the matter. Black cannot save his three
stones that are in atari, so White has got a living shape.
e
e e
3393
3394
Lessons learned
Next page: Failure
3395
Black just pushed in the corner.
White to live.
3396
3397
1
> 1
○●○●○●○●○
> 1
●○●○●○●○●
2
> 2
> 3
> 9
> 2
> 3
> 9
5
> 5
> 6
Next page: Solution
3398
White blocks at 2, securely capturing Black’s single stone inside her

formation for an eye.
3399
3 4
Black’s hane at 3 is successfully stopped by White 4.
Black cannot destroy White’s eye on the bottom right, so White is alive.
3400
e
e
3401
Lessons learned
3402
Problem 029
Black to kill.
3403
3404
○●○●○●○●○
1
●○●○●○●○●
> 1
> 3
> 1
> 3
> 4
> 1
2
> 2
Next page: Hints
3405
Hints 029
White’s potential eye space is a long winding line of points (●), one of
which is already occupied by a black stone.
3406
3407
White’s potential eye space contains two dead three-point eye shapes ( ,
△), one at the left, whose central point is already occupied by Black, …
3408
… and another one (△) at the right, which is entirely empty.
3409
3 3 3 3 3
3 3 3
3 3
All of White’s partial groups have three liberties, several of which are
shared.
White’s entire formation is quite vulnerable to an attack.
3410
3
Black’s single stone at the first line inside White’s formation has also three
liberties.
3411
Black’s -stones at the left are positioned at the third line only.
3412
? ? ? ?
This might give White some options in the ?-area on the first line.
Next page: Solution
3413
Solution 029
B
1 A
Black’s extension to 1 inside White’s formation addresses White’s cutting

points above ( ).
The point of A is taboo for White now, Black B would result in a snap-
back.
3414
Black will succeed neither by extending to the left, nor by descending at
the left, nor by cutting at the right.
A 2
White 2 connects at the right, simultaneously building an eye.
3415
8 6 4
7 5 3
Black cannot let his two stones become captured, so he extends to 3.
White cannot block with 4 at 5, because Black’s stones on the bottom have
two liberties left, and Black would cut at 4 successfully.
The story continues until White’s descent to 8 at the left. There is no

escape route left for Black.
3416
9
A B
However, there is the remaining cutting point of 9 available for Black.
White is unable to approach at A and at B, due to her shortage of liberties.

White has only an eye at the right, and so is dead.
3417
3418
3419
3 B
A
Black 3 cuts at the right.
The points of A and B are taboo for White now.
3420
6
4 5
White’s atari at 4 from the outside is her only remaining option.
Black connects at 5, and White has to capture Black’s four stones, with her
move at 6.
3421
7 A
Black 7 occupies the vital point of White’s shape.
White’s potential eye space consists of four point in a row, but she is
hindered from playing at A, due to her shortage of liberties. White has no
chance for partitioning any more, so she is dead.
3422
Next page: Failure
3423
Black just pushed to the left on the first line.
White to live.
3424
3425
1
○●○●○●○●○
> 1
●○●○●○●○●
> 3
> 1
> 3
> 4
> 1
2
> 2
Next page: Solution
3426
White descends to 2, occupying the vital point of the problem that Black
3427
3 A 4
Black 3 gives atari to White’s three stones at the left.
Black might consider cutting at 4 instead.
White 4 connects at 4, dividing her eye space at the right.
3428
e
e
3429
Black 3 cuts at the right.
3430
4
A
White extends to 4.
Playing hane at A instead would result in only a false eye.
3431
5 8
7 6
Black 5 blocks the corner.
White 6 captures Black’s two stones, and could also be played at 8.
Black 7 gives atari from the outside, forcing Black to capture at 8. White
has two eyes now, and so is alive.
3432
e e
3433
Lessons learned
When attacking, do not leave a dead eye shape (△) behind, whose central
3434
3 3
3435
have taken.
Next page: Failure
3436
Black just descended at the left, blocking the corner.
White to live.
3437
3438
1
>1
> 3
○●○●○●○●○
> 1
●○●○●○●○●
> 3
> 4
> 1
2
> 2
Next page: Solution
3439
White descends to 2, maximising her potential eye space successfully.
3440
4
3 A
Black 3 gives atari from the outside.
White’s connection at 4 is mandatory.
3441
5
Black’s cut at 5 will have no real effect on the status of White’s group.
3442
6
White answers Black’s atari by capturing at 6, and there is nothing left that
Black could do.
3443
e e
3444
Black’s extension to 3 comes too late now.
3445
A
4
White 4 gives atari to Black’s two stones, simultaneously dividing her eye
space.
3446
5 A
Black throws in at 5, but White will not capture at A.
3447
6
White 6 captures Black’s two stones on the first line instead.
3448
A
7
Black 7 is another atari. But again, White will not capture at A.
3449
8
White 8 captures at the left instead.
White’s liberty on the outside (○) makes sure that there will be no snap-
back at the left.
3450
e
e
3451
White 4 calmly connects at the right.
3452
6
5
Black can give atari at 5 from the outside, but White connects at 6 for the
life of her group.
3453
e
e
3454
Lessons learned
Simply attacking from the outside might not serve to reduce your
opponent’s potential eye space (●).
3455
!!
Do not force your opponent to close a hole (!!) in their encirclement.
Next page: Failure
3456
Black just cut inside White’s formation.
White to live.
3457
3458
1
> 1
> 3
> 1
3>
> 4
○●○●○●○●○
> 1
●○●○●○●○●
2
> 2
Next page: Solution
3459
White extends to 2, occupying the vital point of the problem that Black
3460
3 6
5 4
Black’s atari from the outside, at 3 and at 5, cannot stop White from
creating a living shape, by finally capturing at 6.
3461
e e
3462
Lessons learned

the vital point of the problem that should be taken without thinking.
3463
Do not force your opponent to divide their potential eye space.
3464
have taken.
3465
Problem 030
Black to kill.
3466
3467
○●○●○●○●○
1
●○●○●○●○●
> 1
> 4
2
> 2
> 4
> 6
3
> 3
> 5
> 3
> 4
> 3
> 4
> 3
> 6
4
> 4
> 5
> 5
> 5
> 6
Next page: Hints
3468
Hints 030
White’s potential eye space consists of a “circle” of eight empty points

(●), with an additional “dent” at the first line.
3469
3470
!!
!! !!
White’s encirclement has three holes (!!), one at the left, and two at the
right.
3471
3 3 3
3
3
Two white groups have only three liberties, one of which is shared, and so
are quite vulnerable to an attack.
3472
4 4 4
White’s two groups on the second line have four liberties, and so are
unlikely to become the primary target for an attack.
3473
At the left, there is Black’s descent of to the first line, weakening
White’s position nearby.
Next page: Solution
3474
Solution 030
Black’s move at 1 aims at exploiting White’s shortage of liberties.
White’s three stones at the top are reduced to only two liberties now.
Black will not succeed by pushing on the first line from the left.
3475
2 A
White connects at 2, trying to consolidate her potential eye space at the left
and at the bottom.
To be continued …
3476
3477
White 2 cuts at the right, in an attempt to maximise her potential eye

space.
To be continued …
3478
3479
Black to kill.
3480
3481
1
> 1
> 4
2
>2
> 4
> 6
○●○●○●○●○
3
●○●○●○●○●
> 3
> 5
> 3
> 4
> 3
> 4
> 3
> 6
4
> 4
> 5
> 5
> 5
> 6
Next page: Hints
3482
White’s potential eye space consists of a winding line of points, with an

additional “dent” at the right.
3483
3484
!!
!! !!
White’s encirclement has three holes (!!), one at the left, and two at the
right.
3485
3
3
3486
4 4 4
4
4 4 4
White’s other partial groups have four liberties, several of which are
shared.
3487
3488
Black’s formation at the right ( ) is also very strong.
3489
2
Black’s single stone on the third line has only two liberties, and so is in
imminent danger of being captured quite easily.
Next page: Solution
3490
Black’s surprising move at 3 spoils White’s potential eye shape at the left.
White is handicapped by her massive shortage of liberties at the left.
Black will succeed neither by descending inside White’s formation, nor by

jumping onto the first line from the left, nor by pushing from the left, nor
3491
by connecting his single stone in the top right.
White 4 immobilises Black’s single stone above.
White also hopes for a second eye at the bottom line at the right.
3492
6
Black gives atari at 5, forcing White to capture at 6, also saving her two
stones at the left.
White’s potential eye space on the bottom alone is not large enough for
two eyes.
3493
B
7
A
Black’s descent to 7 is fatal.
It makes miai of the points of A and B.
3494
8
B 9 A
White 8 gives atari to Black’s two stones, but she will not be able to
capture these for her second eye.
Black extends to 9, and the points of A and B are taboo for White now.
White cannot approach Black’s troublemakers inside her formation, so her

group is dead.
3495
3496
White closes the borders of her formation at the right.
To be continued …
3497
3498
Black to kill.
3499
3500
1
> 1
> 4
2
> 2
> 4
> 6
3
> 3
> 5
> 3
> 4
> 3
> 4
> 3
> 6
4
○●○●○●○●○
> 4
●○●○●○●○●
> 5
> 5
> 5
> 6
Next page: Hints
3501
White’s potential eye space consists of a winding line of points, with

minor bulky tendencies at the right.
3502
3503
2 3
2 3 3
White’s group at the left has only two liberties, her group at the right only
one liberties.
3504
1
2
Black’s single stones inside White’s formation have only two, respectively
one, liberties.
3505
!! !!
There are still two holes (!!) in White’s formation.
3506
3507
At the right, there is a dead three-point eye shape ( , △) visible, whose
Next page: Solution
3508
5 A
Black 5 is the same atari as in the main line of the solution.
However, Black will succeed neither by playing hane at the right, nor by
jumping to the first line inside White’s formation.
3509
6
White descends to 6 at the right, aiming at maximising her eye space there.
However, she will be unable to stop Black from establishing a dead eye
shape inside her formation.
3510
7
Black 7 occupies the central point of White’s potential eye space.
3511
9
8
White 8 and Black 9 are miai for the death of White’s group.
3512
3513
Black’s descent to 5 is also possible here. Black’s two stones at the left are
yet securely connected to the outside.
White’s remaining potential eye space at the right is too small for two
eyes.
3514
6
White tries her best by descending to 6.
3515
9
8 7
But Black 7 occupies the central point inside her formation, again resulting
in a dead three-point eye shape.
Please note that White 8 does not contain any threat against Black’s two
stones at the left.
3516
Next page: Failure
3517
030 Problem (variation I – failure I)
White to live.
3518
3519
1
> 1
> 4
2
> 2
> 4
> 6
3
> 3
> 5
> 3
> 4
> 3
> 4
> 3
> 6
4
>4
> 5
○●○●○●○●○
> 5
●○●○●○●○●
> 5
> 6
Next page: Solution
3520
030 Solution (variation I – failure I)
White descends to 6 at the left, occupying the point the Black should have
taken beforehand.
Black has no option left for saving any of his two single stones inside
White’s position.
3521
8
C B 7 A
Black 7 gives atari at the right, but White simply captures at 8.
White’s shape at the left is very resilient. Black would need three moves in
a row (A, B and C) to successfully connect his left-hand stone out.
3522
e
e
3523
Lessons learned
3524
!! !!
Consider carefully, which hole (!!) in your opponent’s formation to attack.
3525
2
3526
have taken.
Next page: Failure
3527
030 Problem (variation I – failure II)
Black just played on the first line inside White’s formation.
White to live.
3528
3529
1
> 1
> 4
2
> 2
> 4
> 6
3
> 3
> 5
> 3
> 4
> 3
> 4
> 3
> 6
4
>4
> 5
> 5
○●○●○●○●○
> 5
●○●○●○●○●
> 6
Next page: Solution
3530
030 Solution (variation I – failure II)
A
6
White 6 descends at the left, occupying the point that Black should have
taken beforehand.
White might consider immediately capturing at A instead, but this will

include a small territorial loss for her.
3531
7
Black’s hane at 7 reduces White’s territory a bit.
3532
A
8 B
White descends to 8 and is alive now.
Black is unable to play at A, due to Black B.
3533
10
12
11 9
Solidly connecting at 9 is an endgame issue only.
This move is gote, so White is able to play elsewhere with 10.
Black 11 forces White to capture at 12.
3534
e e
3535
White calmly captures at 6.
Black will be unable to save his just-played stone.
3536
A
7 B
Black 7 attacks from the left, giving atari to White’s two stones.
But White will not connect at A, suffering from an uncalled-for ko fight

after Black’s answer at B.
3537
A
White descends to 8, simply capturing Black’s single stone on the first line
for her second eye.
3538
e
3539
Lessons learned
!!
Playing inside your opponent’s formation, without having a decisive threat

at your sleeves, might allow your opponent to close a hole (!!) in their
encirclement.
3540
Do not let your opponent occupy the central point of a dead eye shape ( ,
△).
3541
3542
have taken.
Next page: Failure
3543
Black just descended in the centre of White’s formation.
White to live.
3544
3545
1
> 1
> 4
2
> 2
> 4
> 6
3
○●○●○●○●○
> 3
●○●○●○●○●
> 5
> 3
> 4
> 3
> 4
> 3
> 6
4
> 4
> 5
> 5
> 5
> 6
Next page: Solution
3546
White 4 closes the borders of her formation, capturing Black’s two stones
at the right.
3547
5
6
Black 5 attacks White’s remaining weakness at the left.
Black might consider descending to 6 instead.
White 6 captures Black’s two stones at the right.
3548
8
Black 7 gives atari to White’s two stones, simultaneously connecting her

just-played stone out.
But here, White is able to connect at 8, giving atari to Black’s single stone.
3549
9 10
Black 9 and White 10 are miai, so White has got a living shape.
3550
e
e
3551
Black’s descent to 5 hopes for creating a shortage of liberties on White’s

side, but this move comes too late now.
Please note that White’s three stones at the right have two liberties only,
and so are in imminent danger of being captured.
3552
6
White is forced to play at 6, giving atari to Black’s three stones.
3553
7
8
3554
10
Black’s atari at 9 is fruitless here.
White captures at 10, also connecting her previous two partial groups at
the left to only one.
3555
11
12
Black’s atari at 11 is fruitless, because White is able to capture some other

black stones, by playing at 12.
3556
e
e
3557
Lessons learned
!!
Playing inside your opponent’s formation, without having a decisive threat

at your sleeves, might allow your opponent to close a hole (!!) in their
encirclement.
3558
Not every central point of every dead eye shape ( , △) is necessarily the
3559
2
2
Next page: Failure
3560
Black just jumped on the first line from the left.
White to live.
3561
3562
1
> 1
> 4
2
> 2
> 4
> 6
3
>3
> 5
○●○●○●○●○
> 3
●○●○●○●○●
> 4
> 3
> 4
> 3
> 6
4
> 4
> 5
> 5
> 5
> 6
Next page: Solution
3563
White 4 connects above, occupying the vital point at the left that Black
White must not intercept at the left instead.
3564
5
Black 5 and White 6 are miai now.
3565
7
8 A
Black forces from the outside with 7, but White captures at 8, securing her
second eye.
Capturing or connecting white’s two stones at the right, by playing at the

point of A, is left as an endgame issue.
3566
e
3567
Lessons learned
3568
3569
have taken.
Next page: Failure
3570
030 Problem (follow-up – failure III)
Black to kill.
3571
3572
1
> 1
> 4
2
> 2
> 4
> 6
3
>3
> 5
> 3
○●○●○●○●○
> 4
●○●○●○●○●
> 3
> 4
> 3
> 6
4
> 4
> 5
> 5
> 5
> 6
Next page: Solution
3573
030 Solution (follow-up – failure III)
Black simply extends to 5, giving atari to White’s three stones.
3574
6
7
8
Connecting her three stones with White 6 is fruitless.
Black gives atari at 7, making miai of White 8 and …
3575
9
… Black 9. White has only one eye at the left, and so is dead.
3576
3577
Lessons learned
Think twice before making up your mind to capture a just played single
opponent stone.
3578
Blocking on the first line very often takes a liberty of your own stones.
3579
2
2
2
3580
have taken.
Next page: Failure
3581
Black just pushed at the left.
White to live.
3582
3583
1
> 1
> 4
2
> 2
> 4
> 6
3
>3
> 5
> 3
> 4
○●○●○●○●○
> 3
●○●○●○●○●
> 4
> 3
> 6
4
> 4
> 5
> 5
> 5
> 6
Next page: Solution
3584
White connects at 4, occupying the vital point of the problem at the left
that Black should have taken beforehand.
White must not block at the first line instead.
3585
5
6
White’s potential eye space on the first line now consists of five empty
points in a row, sufficient for creating one eye.
3586
7 8 10 9
Black might force with 7 and 9, but he cannot stop White from getting her
second eye on the bottom.
3587
e
3588
Lessons learned
3589
3590
3591
have taken.
Next page: Failure
3592
White just blocked on the first line at the left.
Black to kill.
3593
3594
1
> 1
> 4
2
> 2
> 4
> 6
3
>3
> 5
> 3
> 4
> 3
○●○●○●○●○
> 4
●○●○●○●○●
> 3
> 6
4
> 4
> 5
> 5
> 5
> 6
Next page: Solution
3595
030 Solution (follow-up – failure V)
Black throws in at 5, giving double-atari to White’s stones at the left.
This move returns to the course of the correct solution.
3596
6
3597
8
7
A 9 B
Black’s descent to 7 makes miai of White 8 and Black 9.
Eventually, White cannot approach Black’s three stones inside her

formation neither at A, nor at B, so her group is dead.
3598
3599
Lessons learned
2
2
2
3600
have taken.
Next page: Failure
3601
030 Problem (follow-up – failure VI)
Black just solidly connected his single stone at the top.
White to live.
3602
3603
1
> 1
> 4
2
> 2
> 4
> 6
3
>3
> 5
> 3
> 4
> 3
> 4
○●○●○●○●○
> 3
●○●○●○●○●
> 6
4
> 4
> 5
> 5
> 5
> 6
Next page: Solution
3604
White connects at 4, maximising her potential eye space at the bottom

right.
3605
5
Black’s jump to 5 is a nice try, hoping for a white mistake.
3606
6
White calmly connects at 6, giving Black no chances.
White must not intercept at the left instead.
3607
7 9 10 8
White 7 connects her just-played stone.
Black 9 further reduces White’s territory a bit, but White 10 secures two
eyes for her group.
3608
e
3609
Lessons learned
Think twice before connecting a single of your stones that might have
become captured by your opponent quite easily.
3610
winding line of empty points (●).
Next page: Failure
3611
030 Problem (follow-up – failure VII)
White just blocked at the left.
Black to kill.
3612
3613
1
> 1
> 4
2
> 2
> 4
> 6
3
>3
> 5
> 3
> 4
> 3
> 4
> 3
○●○●○●○●○
> 6
●○●○●○●○●
4
> 4
> 5
> 5
> 5
> 6
Next page: Solution
3614
030 Solution (follow-up – failure VII)
Black 7 is a natural atari to White’s two stones.
3615
8
3616
11 10 9
Black’s hane at 9 successfully reduces White’s potential territory from the

right.
White 10 and Black 11 are miai now.
White has only one large eye, and so is dead.
3617
3618
Lessons learned
Think twice before making up your mind to capture a just played single
opponent stone.
3619
3620
2
2
2
3621
When closing the borders of your formation, do not leave a dead eye space
( , △) behind, whose central point is already occupied by your opponent.
3622
have taken.
3623
White just separated Black’s single stone at the right.
Black to kill.
3624
3625
1
> 1
> 4
2
○●○●○●○●○
> 2
●○●○●○●○●
> 4
> 6
3
> 3
> 5
> 3
> 4
> 3
> 4
> 3
> 6
4
> 4
> 5
> 5
> 5
> 6
Next page: Hints
3626
White’s potential eye space consists of a “circle” of eight empty points

(●), with an additional “dent” at the first line.
3627
stone.
3628
2 2 2
3 3
3 3 3
White’s partial group on the outside of her formation have only two,
respectively three, liberties, and so are very vulnerable to an attack.
3629
There is a dead three-point eye shape visible in the top right, whose central
point is already occupied by Black.
3630
!! !!
White’s encirclement has two holes (!!), one at the left, and one at the
right.
3631
Next page: Solution
3632
Black 3 pushes at the left, successfully reducing White’s potential eye

space in that area.
3633
A
4
White’s connection at 4 immobilises Black’s single stone at the right – for

the time being.
3634
A
6 5
White blocks at 6, in an attempt to maximise her potential eye space on the

bottom.
3635
7
Black jumps to 7, and White is dead.
3636
10 9
8
11
But Black’s atari at 9 is sente.
White has no time to intercept at 11, but must capture at 10 instead.
Eventually, Black connects at 11, and White’s group has only one eye.
3637
3638
White’s connection at 6 is a desperate attempt to making Black believe

that he must reduce White’s potential eye space on the bottom.
3639
8 7
But Black gives atari at 7, forcing White to capture at 8.
3640
9 10 11
After Black 9, White 10 and Black 11 are miai, so White is dead with only
one eye.
3641
3642
White 4 connects in the centre of her formation, also immobilising Black’s

single stone at right.
3643
5
Black 5 gives atari to White’s two stones at the left.
3644
6
White descends to 6 at the right, aiming at maximising her eye space in

that area.
3645
9
8 7
Black’s placement at 7 is fatal.
This move makes miai of White 8 and Black 9.
Black 9 completes a dead three-point eye shape inside White’s formation,

so White has only one large eye.
3646
Next page: Failure
3647
Black just pushed in the corner.
White to live.
3648
3649
1
○●○●○●○●○
> 1
●○●○●○●○●
> 4
2
> 2
> 4
> 6
3
> 3
> 5
> 3
> 4
> 3
> 4
> 3
> 6
4
> 4
> 5
> 5
> 5
> 6
Next page: Solution
3650
? 2
?
taken beforehand.
Now, it is very likely that both of the marked ?-points will become
White’s eyes.
3651
3
Black’s jump to 3 reduces White’s potential eye space at the left.
3652
A
5 4
White 4 secures an eye above, giving atari to Black’s just-played stone.
White might consider immediately connecting at A instead.
3653
8
7
6
Eventually, White connects at 8, also securing an eye point, gaining a

living shape.
3654
e
e
e
3655
White 4 connects at the left, threatening to capture Black’s just-played

stone.
3656
5 6
Black 5 connects, and White is forced to answer at 6.
3657
8
B
A 7
Black 7 and White 8 are miai now.
3658
e
e
3659
Lessons learned
3660
Do not force your opponent to divide their potential eye space into two
sections.
3661
When attacking, do not leave a combination of two dead eye shapes (△)
behind, …
3662
3663
have taken.
3664
Problem 031
White to kill.
3665
3666
○●○●○●○●○
1
●○●○●○●○●
> 1
> 3
> 1
> 3
> 1
> 6
> 1
> 2
> 3
> 3
> 3
> 6
> 8
2
> 2
> 3
> 5
> 9
> 6
> 3
> 3
> 4
> 5
> 6
3
> 3
> 4
> 5
> 7
> 9
> 5
5
3667
> 5
> 5
6
> 6
Next page: Hints
3668
Hints 031
Black’s potential eye space (●) consists of a long winding line of empty
points (“snake”).
3669
3670
!!
!! !!
!!
There are two holes (!!) in Black’s encirclement, a larger one at the top,
and a smaller one at the bottom left.
3671
White’s formation at the right is very strong.
3672
There is a line of false eyes ( , ✕) visible at the bottom right.
3673
2
2
Black’s single stones at the right have only two liberties, and so are very
3674
4
4 4
4 4
4 4
Black’s other groups have four liberties, and so are unlikely to become the
primary target for attack.
3675
White’s formation at the top ( ) is quite strong, weakening Black’s
formation in the neighbouring area.
3676
However, you will notice that White’s -stones are not yet solidly
connected to each other.
3677
There is another line of false eyes ( , ✕) visible.
However, White will have to remember that it needs permanent stones on

both ends of such a line to make it work.
Next page: Solution
3678
Solution 031
White’s placement at 1 occupies the vital point of the problem, spoiling

Black’s potential eye space. Additionally, White’s move threatens to cut at
the right, making Black’s potential eye in this area false.
White will succeed neither by playing a diagonal move at the top, nor by
3679
pushing from above, nor by playing hane at the left, nor by playing atari
from the outside at the right.
Black 2 connects at the right, stopping White from cutting at the same
point.
To be continued …
3680
3681
Black 2, ignoring White’s previous placement on the bottom, is played in

an attempt to gain sufficient eye space at the top.
To be continued …
3682
3683
White to kill.
3684
3685
1
> 1
> 3
> 1
> 3
> 1
> 6
> 1
> 2
> 3
> 3
> 3
> 6
> 8
2
> 2
> 3
> 5
> 9
> 6
> 3
> 3
> 4
> 5
> 6
○●○●○●○●○
3
●○●○●○●○●
> 3
> 4
> 5
> 7
> 9
> 5
5
3686
> 5
> 5
6
> 6
Next page: Hints
3687
points (“snake”).
3688
3689
2
2 2
Black’s partial group at the bottom right has only two liberties, and so is
3690
At the bottom right, there is a dead three-point eye shape ( , △)
available, whose central point is already occupied by White.
3691
!!
!! !!
!!
There are two holes (!!) in Black’s encirclement, a larger one at the top,
and a smaller one at the bottom left.
3692
White’s formation at the top ( ) is quite strong, weakening Black’s
formation in the neighbouring area.
3693
However, you will notice that White’s -stones are not yet solidly
connected to each other.
3694
There is another line of false eyes ( , ✕) visible.
However, White will have to remember that it needs permanent stones on

both ends of such a line to make it work.
Next page: Solution
3695
3 A B
White’s hane at 3 from the left is her second attack on Black’s potential
eye space on the bottom.
White threatens to continue with moves at A, or at B.
White will not succeed by playing a diagonal move at the top.
3696
4
Black 4 blocks at the left, maximising his potential eye space.
3697
5
Black’s three stones at the left have three liberties only, but White’s
diagonal move at 5 attacks Black’s weaknesses at the right first. There is
some shortage of liberties involved (for both sides), so White must proceed
very carefully here.
White will not succeed by attacking Black’s three stones at the left in a
more direct manner (case #1, case #2).
3698
6
A
Black 6 hopes to attack White’s -stone successfully.
3699
A
C 7
D B
White’s descent to 7 frustrates Black’s plans.
Black is hindered from cutting at A at the right, due to White B.
White’s earlier played -stone at the left stops Black from giving atari at
C, creating an eye point at D.
3700
A
Capturing at 8 is Black’s only choice left.
But now, White’s turning move at 9 destroys Black’s potential eye at the
left.
The point of A still is taboo for Black, so White’s three stones are safe
from becoming captured.
3701
11
13 10
12
Black tries the hane of 10, but there will be no eye in the corner.
White blocks at 11, after which Black 12 and White 13 are miai.
3702
3703
Black 6 connects at the right, securing an eye on the bottom.
3704
A
7
White’s move at 7 addresses Black’s shortage of liberties again.
hinders Black from cutting at A.
3705
9
Black 8 captures at the bottom left.
White 9 connects her just-played stone, and Black is left with only one
eye.
3706
11
12 10
13
There will be no second eye for Black in the corner.
3707
Next page: Failure
3708
White just pushed into Black’s formation from above.
Black to live.
3709
3710
1
> 1
> 3
> 1
> 3
> 1
> 6
> 1
> 2
> 3
> 3
> 3
> 6
> 8
2
> 2
> 3
> 5
> 9
> 6
> 3
> 3
> 4
> 5
> 6
3
> 3
> 4
> 5
> 7
> 9
> 5
5
○●○●○●○●○
> 5
3711
●○●○●○●○●
> 5
6
> 6
Next page: Solution
3712
Black blocks at 6, consolidating his formation immediately.
3713
7
8
White can force with 7 at the top and …
3714
10
9
… with 9 on the bottom, but Black will get two eyes for sure.
3715
e
e
3716
Lessons learned
3717
Do not let your opponent secure a second section (●) of their potential eye
space.
3718
?
?
Think twice before initiating a forcing exchange (?) from the outside.
Consider carefully whether you might be able to do without, playing your

second move first.
< Excursus – The 1–2–3 principle >
3719
Next page: Failure
3720
White just attached at the left.
Black to live.
3721
3722
1
> 1
> 3
> 1
> 3
> 1
> 6
> 1
> 2
> 3
> 3
> 3
> 6
> 8
2
> 2
> 3
> 5
> 9
> 6
> 3
> 3
> 4
> 5
> 6
3
> 3
> 4
> 5
> 7
> 9
> 5
5
> 5
○●○●○●○●○
3723
> 5
●○●○●○●○●
6
> 6
Next page: Solution
3724
Black 6 successfully separates White’s just-played stone from its allies at

the top.
3725
7
White’s move at 7, giving atari to Black’s four stones, comes too late now.
Of course, Black will not capture at A.
3726
B
A
8
Black connects at 8 instead.
Now it is White who suffers from a shortage of liberties. White cannot

connect at A, due to Black B.
3727
9
10
White forces with 9, but capturing at 10 provides Black with his second
eye.
3728
e
3729
Lessons learned
3730
Do not assume that this effect is strictly limited to the edge of the board.
3731
Be aware that your opponent will think twice before capturing a single
stone that is positioned on the outskirts of their formation.
3732
?
?

second move first.
Next page: Failure
3733
White just played a diagonal move at the top of Black’s formation.
Black to live.
3734
3735
1
> 1
> 3
> 1
> 3
> 1
> 6
> 1
> 2
> 3
> 3
> 3
> 6
> 8
2
> 2
> 3
> 5
> 9
> 6
> 3
> 3
> 4
> 5
> 6
3
○●○●○●○●○
> 3
●○●○●○●○●
> 4
> 5
> 7
> 9
> 5
5
3736
> 5
> 5
6
> 6
Next page: Solution
3737
Black descends to 4 at the left, maximising his potential eye space at the
bottom, occupying the point that White should have taken beforehand.
Black must not connect in the centre of his formation.
3738
5
White 5 hopes to turn Black’s eye at the right into a false one ( , ✕).
White might consider extending to A instead.
3739
A
6
But Black descends to 6, immobilising White’s stone on the first line.
White cannot cut a A any longer.
3740
7
8
White can force with 7, but Black 8 secure a living shape for his group.
3741
e e
3742
White extends to 5, aiming at creating a dead eye shape on the bottom.
3743
A
6
Black 6 attacks at the top, threatening to cut at A.
3744
A
White extends to 7, aiming at creating a false eye for Black at the right ( ,
✕).
Black is unable to cut at A now, due to his shortage of liberties.
3745
9
10
But Black’s atari at 8 makes miai of White 9 and Black 10.
White will save her two stones, by connecting at 9.
3746
11
White 11 captures Black’s three stones at the right.
3747
12
Black recaptures at 12.
3748
13
White throws in at 13, reaching her aim of creating a false eye at this point
( ).
3749
A
B 14
But Black captures White’s troublemaker with 14.
Black has become the owner of the point of A, so B is a real eye.
3750
e
e
3751
Lessons learned
3752
3753
When attacking from the outside, do not leave a potential eye space for
your opponent behind that consists of a long winding line of points (●;
“snake”).
3754
Remember that capturing a dead three-point eye shape ( , △) means one
eye in gote.
3755
have taken.
Next page: Failure
3756
Black just connected solidly in the centre of his formation.
White to kill.
3757
3758
1
> 1
> 3
> 1
> 3
> 1
> 6
> 1
> 2
> 3
> 3
> 3
> 6
> 8
2
> 2
> 3
> 5
> 9
> 6
> 3
> 3
> 4
> 5
> 6
3
> 3
○●○●○●○●○
> 4
●○●○●○●○●
> 5
> 7
> 9
> 5
5
3759
> 5
> 5
6
> 6
Next page: Solution
3760
White’s solid connection at 5 destroys Black’s eye making potential at the

top.
White must not play hane at the left instead.
3761
6
Black 6 closes the borders of his formation.
3762
A
8 7 9
White’s placement at 7 is the fatal blow.
Sooner or later, Black’s cutting point at the right ( ) will make it

necessary to connect at A, so there will be no seki.
3763
3764
Lessons learned
!!
!!
!!
Next page: Failure
3765
Black to live.
3766
3767
1
> 1
> 3
> 1
> 3
> 1
> 6
> 1
> 2
> 3
> 3
> 3
> 6
> 8
2
> 2
> 3
> 5
> 9
> 6
> 3
> 3
> 4
> 5
> 6
3
> 3
> 4
○●○●○●○●○
> 5
●○●○●○●○●
> 7
> 9
> 5
5
3768
> 5
> 5
6
> 6
Next page: Solution
3769
031 Solution (follow-up – failure V)
Black 6 attacks White single stone at the top.
3770
7
A
White 7 gives atari at Black’s four stones at the right.
3771
A
Black will not capture at A, allowing White to rescue her stone on the first
line, by playing at B.
Black connects at 8 instead, threatening to capture White’s just-played

stone.
3772
11 9 10
White might consider playing at 10 instead.
Black has sufficient liberties left to give atari at 10.
White 11 and …
3773
12
… Black 12 are miai, so Black gets a living shape.
3774
e
3775
A 9
White’s extension to 9 is a nice try, hoping for a ko fight.
But Black will not capture at A.
3776
10
11
Black 10 gives atari, forcing White to connect at 11.
3777
12
Please note that this move does not capture only the marked four-stone
dead eye shape.
3778
14 13 15
White 13 occupies the central point of Black’s eye space on the bottom,
threatening to cut at the left.
But White connects at 14, making miai of White 15 and …
3779
16
… Black 16. Black has got two eye, and is alive now.
3780
e
3781
White extends to 7, aiming at connecting to the left.
3782
8
Black solidly connects at 8, securing an eye above.
3783
10
White connects at 9, saving her two stones on the first line.
Black 10 occupies the miai point at the top, capturing White’s single stone
for his second eye.
3784
e
e
3785
Lessons learned
3786
!!
!!

attack first.
3787
have taken.
3788
Black just played a bending move at the top of his position.
White to kill.
3789
3790
1
> 1
> 3
> 1
> 3
> 1
> 6
> 1
> 2
> 3
> 3
> 3
> 6
> 8
2
○●○●○●○●○
> 2
●○●○●○●○●
> 3
> 5
> 9
> 6
> 3
> 3
> 4
> 5
> 6
3
> 3
> 4
> 5
> 7
> 9
> 5
5
3791
> 5
> 5
6
> 6
Next page: Hints
3792
points ('“snake”).
3793
3794
!!
!! !!
There are three holes (!!) in Black’s encirclement, one at each side of his
formation.
3795
2
2
Black’s single stones at the bottom right have only two liberties, and so are
in imminent danger of being captured.
3796
4
4 4 4
4 4
4 4
White’s other groups have four liberties, so it is unlikely that these will
3797
3
White’s single stone inside Black’s formation has three liberties.
3798
At the right, there is a line of false eyes ( , ✕) available.
3799
3800
Another potential dead eye shape (△) that is entirely empty.
Next page: Solution
3801
White cuts at 3.
White will succeed neither by giving atari at the right from the outside, nor
by playing hane at the left, nor by playing at the top.
3802
4
Black 4 maximises his potential eye space, closing the borders of his
position at the top.
Black might consider giving atari at A instead.
3803
5
White 5 occupies the central point of Black’s potential eye space.
Please note that Black’s four stones in the top right are reduced to only two
liberties now.
White must not capture Black’s single stone on the bottom line instead.
3804
A
7
6
Black tries his best by descending to 6 at the left.
Black might still consider giving atari at A instead.
White captures at 7, simultaneously giving atari to Black’s four stones

above.
3805
8
Black has to connect at 8.
3806
A
11 B
10 9
White 9 gives atari to Black’s single stone.
White gives counter-atari at 10, but White captures at 11.
If Black captures at A instead, White will extend to 10, also killing Black’s
group.
Black’s single -stone at the right would stop White from successfully
connecting at B after a black atari at A.
3807
However, Black is short of liberties, so the point of A is taboo for him.
Black is dead.
3808
Black 6 gives atari to White’s just-played stone.
3809
A 7
White’s placement at 7 is fatal, threatening to connect out, by playing at A.
There is no need for White to worry about her two stones at the right,
capturing them will result in only a false eye.
3810
10
8 9
Black 8 stops White from connecting to the left.
White connects at 9, after which Black 10 gives atari to White’s four

stones.
3811
A
11
There will be no snap-back, because White will not capture at A.
White 11 captures Black’s troublemaker on the first line, securely killing

Black’s group.
3812
3813
Black 4 gives atari to White’s two stones, hoping for a white mistake.
3814
5
6
White 5 calmly attacks from above.
Capturing White’s two stones on the bottom will provide Black will only a
false eye, so there is no need to capture Black’s single stone on the first
line instead.
Black 6 closes the borders of his formation at the top.
3815
9
7 8
White’s hane at 7 successfully reduces Black’s remaining potential eye

space.
Black 8 and White 9 are miai. Black has only one eye, and so is dead.
3816
Next page: Failure
3817
White just captured at the bottom right.
Black to live.
3818
3819
1
> 1
> 3
> 1
> 3
> 1
> 6
> 1
> 2
> 3
> 3
> 3
> 6
> 8
2
> 2
> 3
> 5
> 9
> 6
> 3
> 3
> 4
○●○●○●○●○
> 5
●○●○●○●○●
> 6
3
> 3
> 4
> 5
> 7
> 9
> 5
5
3820
> 5
> 5
6
> 6
Next page: Solution
3821
Black 6 maximises his potential eye space, occupying the point that White
3822
7
White 7 tries to spoil Black’s shape.
3823
8
Black is able to descend at the left, maximising his potential eye space.
3824
10
9 11
White 9 is a nice try, threatening to continue at 10.
But Black takes the point of 10 himself, successfully dividing his eye
space.
But 11 is no fatal double-atari here.
3825
12
Black captures at 12 at the top, and is alive.
Please note that hastily capturing at the bottom, with a move at A, will not
do the job.
White will be still able to capture Black’s four stones at the top, by playing
at 12 herself.
3826
e
e
3827
Lessons learned
Think twice before capturing a single opponent stone.
Especially if this stone is located on the outskirts of your opponent’s

formation.
3828
your opponent behind that consists of a long winding line of empty points
(●; “snake”).
Next page: Failure
3829
Black to live.
3830
3831
1
> 1
> 3
> 1
> 3
> 1
> 6
> 1
> 2
> 3
> 3
> 3
> 6
> 8
2
> 2
○●○●○●○●○
> 3
●○●○●○●○●
> 5
> 9
> 6
> 3
> 3
> 4
> 5
> 6
3
> 3
> 4
> 5
> 7
> 9
> 5
5
3832
> 5
> 5
6
> 6
Next page: Solution
3833
Black 4 maximises his potential eye space, by closing the borders of his
formation at the top.
3834
5
White 5 takes the central point of the winding line of empty points that
was just created by Black.
White might consider playing hane at A instead, but this will include a
small territorial loss for her.
3835
6
Black must not descend at the left instead.
3836
7
3837
8
Black descends to 8 at the left.
Black’s potential eye space has grown too large now to become
successfully destroyed by White.
3838
9
11
10
White 9 inside Black’s formation is her best choice.
White might consider extending to 10 instead, but this will include a

territorial loss for her.
Black 10 occupies the miai point.
Eventually, White 11 adds a third stone inside Black’s living group. White
has gained a seki for Black, but in gote only.
3839
n
3840
White extends to 9 on the first line.
3841
12
10 11
Black answers by giving atari at 10.
Black lives with territory here.
3842
e
3843
White plays the hane of 5 at the left.
3844
6
Black blocks with the atari of 6.
3845
8
7
White 7 captures Black’s two stones at the right, in sente.
Black is forced to connect at 8, preventing a white atari at the same point.
Black has got two eyes, and so lives with territory.
3846
e
e
3847
Lessons learned

formation.
3848
(●; “snake”).
Next page: Failure
3849
031 Problem (variation – failure III)
White to kill.
3850
3851
1
> 1
> 3
> 1
> 3
> 1
> 6
> 1
> 2
> 3
> 3
> 3
> 6
> 8
2
> 2
> 3
5>
> 9
○●○●○●○●○
> 6
●○●○●○●○●
> 3
> 3
> 4
> 5
> 6
3
> 3
> 4
> 5
> 7
> 9
> 5
5
3852
> 5
> 5
6
> 6
Next page: Solution
3853
031 Solution (variation – failure III)
White 7 gives atari to Black’s four stones above.
3854
8
10 9
White gives another atari at 9, which is followed by Black’s counter-atari

at 10.
3855
A
11 B
Black is hindered from giving atari at A.
But any way, even if he could, White would connect at B, leaving a dead
six-point eye shape ( , 11, B) behind.
3856
3857
Lessons learned
2 2
2
2
3
3858
Do not leave a potential dead eye shape ( , , △) behind inside your
formation.
3859
have taken.
Next page: Failure
3860
031 Problem (variation – failure IV)
Black to live.
3861
3862
1
> 1
> 3
> 1
> 3
> 1
> 6
> 1
> 2
> 3
> 3
> 3
> 6
> 8
2
> 2
> 3
5>
> 9
> 6
○●○●○●○●○
> 3
●○●○●○●○●
> 3
> 4
> 5
> 6
3
> 3
> 4
> 5
> 7
> 9
> 5
5
3863
> 5
> 5
6
> 6
Next page: Solution
3864
031 Solution (variation – failure IV)
Black blocks at 4.
3865
5 6
White tries the move at 5, and Black connects at 6.
3866
8
White 7 and Black 8 are miai, so Black has got a living shape.
3867
e
3868
Lessons learned
3869
Do not force your opponent to turn (parts of) their potential eye space into
a long winding line of empty points (●; “snake”).
3870
Next page: Failure
3871
031 Problem (variation – failure V)
White just played at the top of Black’s position.
Black to live.
3872
3873
1
> 1
> 3
> 1
> 3
> 1
> 6
> 1
> 2
> 3
> 3
> 3
> 6
> 8
2
> 2
> 3
> 5
> 9
> 6
> 3
○●○●○●○●○
> 3
●○●○●○●○●
> 4
> 5
> 6
3
> 3
> 4
> 5
> 7
> 9
> 5
5
3874
> 5
> 5
6
> 6
Next page: Solution
3875
031 Solution (variation – failure V)
Black connects at 4, stopping White from cutting at the right.
Please note that this move occupied the vital point that White should have
taken beforehand.
3876
5
6
White pushes further at 5, but is stopped by Black 6.
3877
7 8
White cannot stop Black from getting two eyes. White 7 and Black 8 are
miai.
3878
3879
Lessons learned
3880
have taken.
Next page: Failure
3881
White just played a diagonal move at the top of Black’s position.
Black to live.
3882
3883
1
○●○●○●○●○
> 1
●○●○●○●○●
> 3
> 1
> 3
> 1
> 6
> 1
> 2
> 3
> 3
> 3
> 6
> 8
2
> 2
> 3
> 5
> 9
> 6
> 3
> 3
> 4
> 5
> 6
3
> 3
> 4
> 5
> 7
> 9
> 5
5
3884
> 5
> 5
6
> 6
Next page: Solution
3885
Black 2 solidifies his position.
3886
3
Black 3 further attacks at the top.
White might consider the placement at 4 instead.
Black 4 occupies the vital point on the first line, securing two eyes for
Black.
3887
5
6
7 8
White might reduce Black’s territory, by forcing at 5 and at 7, but she will
be unable to reduce Black to only one eye.
3888
e
e
3889
White’s placement at 3 attacks Black’s potential eye shape on the bottom.
3890
4
Black 4 occupies the miai point, threatening to capture White’s single

stone at the top for an eye.
3891
6
White 5 and Black 6 are miai, so Black is alive.
3892
e
e
3893
Lessons learned
3894
winding line of empty points (●; “snake”).
3895
Next page: Failure
3896
White just pushed into Black’s position from above.
Black to live.
3897
3898
1
> 1
> 3
○●○●○●○●○
> 1
●○●○●○●○●
> 3
> 1
> 6
> 1
> 2
> 3
> 3
> 3
> 6
> 8
2
> 2
> 3
> 5
> 9
> 6
> 3
> 3
> 4
> 5
> 6
3
> 3
> 4
> 5
> 7
> 9
> 5
5
3899
> 5
> 5
6
> 6
Next page: Solution
3900
Black blocks at 2, stopping White’s further encroachment.
3901
A
White’s placement at 3 attacks at the bottom.
3902
4
Black 4 secures an eye below.
White 5 cuts on the lower edge.
3903
6
Black is able to connect at 6, saving one of his stone at the right.
3904
8 7 9
White’s placement at 7 is fruitless.
Black descends to 8, and White will be unable to connect her just-played

stone out.
White captures at 9, but …
3905
10
… Black descends to 10, securing two eyes for his group.
3906
e
e
3907
White 3 attacks at the top.
3908
4
Black 4 secures an eye at the left.
3909
5
White tries the placement at 5, but will be unable to stop Black from
getting another eye at right.
3910
7
8 6
White 7 sacrifices another stone, in an attempt to turn Black’s potential

eye at the right into a false one.
3911
10
9
White’s throw-in at 9 is fruitless.
Black connects at 10 for two eyes.
3912
e e
3913
Lessons learned
3914
Do not force your opponent so divide their potential eye space into two
sections (●), …
3915
… one of which being a long winding line of empty points (●, “snake”).
3916
Remember that permanent stones are needed on both ends of a line of false
eyes ( , ✕) to make it work.
Next page: Failure
3917
Black to live.
3918
3919
1
> 1
> 3
> 1
> 3
○●○●○●○●○
> 1
●○●○●○●○●
> 6
> 1
> 2
> 3
> 3
> 3
> 6
> 8
2
> 2
> 3
> 5
> 9
> 6
> 3
> 3
> 4
> 5
> 6
3
> 3
> 4
> 5
> 7
> 9
> 5
5
3920
> 5
> 5
6
> 6
Next page: Solution
3921
Black successfully blocks at 2.
3922
4
White tries the placement at 3 on the bottom, occupying the vital point of
the problem, but this move comes too late now.
Black 4 answers at the top.
3923
5
White cuts at 5, hoping for a black mistake.
3924
6
8
Black 6 consolidates his shape at the top.
He must not play atari to White’s two stones instead.
White 7 and Black 8 are miai for the life of his group.
3925
e
e
3926
Lessons learned
3927
sections (●), …
3928
… one of which being a long winding line of empty points (●, “snake”).
3929
? ?

second move first.
Next page: Failure
3930
Black just played atari to White’s two stones.
White to kill.
3931
3932
1
> 1
> 3
> 1
> 3
> 1
○●○●○●○●○
> 6
●○●○●○●○●
> 1
> 2
> 3
> 3
> 3
> 6
> 8
2
> 2
> 3
> 5
> 9
> 6
> 3
> 3
> 4
> 5
> 6
3
> 3
> 4
> 5
> 7
> 9
> 5
5
3933
> 5
> 5
6
> 6
Next page: Solution
3934
White cannot capture at A, due to snap-back.
She gives counter-atari at 7 instead.
3935
8
3936
A
9
10
White extends to 9, connecting her stone out.
The point of A is taboo for Black, due to his shortage of liberties, so he has
to connect at 10 instead.
3937
11
13
12
Thereafter, Black 12 and White 12 are miai. Black cannot get more than
one eye, and so is dead.
3938
3939
Lessons learned
Think twice before giving atari to some opponent stones.
3940
have.
3941
3
3
3
2
2 2
Mind your remaining weaknesses while attacking.
Next page: Failure
3942
Black to live (by means of ko).
3943
3944
1
> 1
> 3
> 1
> 3
> 1
> 6
○●○●○●○●○
> 1
●○●○●○●○●
> 2
> 3
> 3
> 3
> 6
> 8
2
> 2
> 3
> 5
> 9
> 6
> 3
> 3
> 4
> 5
> 6
3
> 3
> 4
> 5
> 7
> 9
> 5
5
3945
> 5
> 5
6
> 6
Next page: Solution
3946
taken beforehand.
Black must not connect at the right instead.
3947
3
White 3 captures at the right, starting a ko fight for the life of Black’s
group.
3948
5
4
Sooner or later, Black will play at 4, and White will further capture at 5.
3949
ko
Black has to look for the first valid ko threat.
This ko is advantageous for White, because she has internal ko threats up

her sleeves. However, even this ko is a success for Black, because White
missed her chance to kill Black’s group unconditionally.
3950
○●○●○●○●○●○
3951
6
7
Black recaptures the ko at 8.
3952
9
10
11
White 9 is a internal ko threat.
Black answers at 10, after which White recaptures the ko at 11.
3953
12
13
14
3954
15
16
Black ignores White’s ko threat of 15 in order to connect the ko at 16.
Black needed two valid ko threats more than White to win this fight, not
only one.
3955
e
e
3956
Lessons learned

formation.
3957
ko
ko
Do not overlook that your opponent might be able to create ko shapes for
defence.
3958
have taken.
Next page: Failure
3959
Black just connected at the right.
White to kill.
3960
3961
1
> 1
> 3
> 1
> 3
> 1
> 6
> 1
○●○●○●○●○
> 2
●○●○●○●○●
> 3
> 3
> 3
> 6
> 8
2
> 2
> 3
> 5
> 9
> 6
> 3
> 3
> 4
> 5
> 6
3
> 3
> 4
> 5
> 7
> 9
> 5
5
3962
> 5
> 5
6
> 6
Next page: Solution
3963
White 3 reduces Black’s potential eye space from above.
White will succeed neither by playing the diagonal move at the top, nor by
jumping onto the first line from the left, nor by playing atari to Black’s
three stones at the right.
3964
A
4
6 5
Black blocks at 4.
White’s placement at 5 is decisive.
Black descends to 6, preventing White from connecting out.
3965
7
White 7 forces from above.
3966
8
B
9 A
Black connects at 8, stopping White from playing at that point.
Black might consider descending to 9 instead.
White extends to 9, killing Black. Black is unable to divide his potential

eye space, by playing at A.
An atari at B does not help Black. After White extends to A, Black will
capture a dead eye shape only
3967
3968
Black descends to 8, aiming at dividing his potential eye space.
3969
9
10
But White’s throw-in at 9 is also a double-atari, so Black has to capture at

10.
3970
11
White 11 spoils Black’s shape, making Black’s potential eye at the right
false.
3971
3972
Black 6 tries to expand his potential eye space at the top.
3973
7
8
But White’s throw-in at 7 is also an atari that must be answered with Black
8.
3974
10
11 9
White 9 is her second atari, forcing Black to connect at 10.
White 11 connects her two stones out, and Black is left behind with a dead
group.
3975
3976
Lessons learned
Think twice before connecting a single stone that is in atari.
Especially if this stone is located on the outskirts of your formation.
3977
!!
!! !!
!!
3978
2
2 2
When defending, mind the remaining weaknesses in your formation.
3979
Mind even potential lines of false eyes ( , ✕).
Next page: Failure
3980
White just played a diagonal move at the top of Black’s position.
Black to live.
3981
3982
1
> 1
> 3
> 1
> 3
> 1
> 6
> 1
> 2
○●○●○●○●○
> 3
●○●○●○●○●
> 3
> 3
> 6
> 8
2
> 2
> 3
> 5
> 9
> 6
> 3
> 3
> 4
> 5
> 6
3
> 3
> 4
> 5
> 7
> 9
> 5
5
3983
> 5
> 5
6
> 6
Next page: Solution
3984
Black consolidates his shape by solidly connecting at 4.
3985
A
5 6 7
White’s hane at 5 reduces Black’s potential eye space from the left.
Please note that this move threatens to continue at A, utilising Black’s

Black blocks at 6, threatening to divide his eye space, by continuing at 7.
White’s atari at 7 stops Black from getting two eyes quite easily.
3986
8
Black cannot save his three stones, but must give atari at the top, by
playing at 8.
3987
10
Black 10 captures White’s single stone at the top, securing his second eye.
3988
e
e
3989
Lessons learned
3990
your opponent behind that consists of a long winding line of points (●;
“snake”).
3991
Next page: Failure
3992
White just jumped into Black’s formation from the left.
Black to live.
3993
3994
1
> 1
> 3
> 1
> 3
> 1
> 6
> 1
>2
> 3
○●○●○●○●○
> 3
●○●○●○●○●
> 3
> 6
> 8
2
> 2
> 3
> 5
> 9
> 6
> 3
> 3
> 4
> 5
> 6
3
> 3
> 4
> 5
> 7
> 9
> 5
5
3995
> 5
> 5
6
> 6
Next page: Solution
3996
Black descends to 4, securing an eye at the right.
3997
5
6
White forces at 5, before connecting her stone on the bottom out, by

playing at 7.
3998
8
Black 8 gives atari to White’s single stone at the top.
3999
9
10
White 9 and Black 10 are miai. Black gets his second eye, and eventually
lives.
4000
e
e
4001
Lessons learned
4002
Next page: Failure
4003
White just played atari to Black’s three stones.
Black to live.
4004
4005
1
> 1
> 3
> 1
> 3
> 1
> 6
> 1
>2
> 3
> 3
○●○●○●○●○
> 3
●○●○●○●○●
> 6
> 8
2
> 2
> 3
> 5
> 9
> 6
> 3
> 3
> 4
> 5
> 6
3
> 3
> 4
> 5
> 7
> 9
> 5
5
4006
> 5
> 5
6
> 6
Next page: Solution
4007
Black is able to connect at 4.
4008
7
5 6
The combination of White’s hane at 5 and the attachment at 7 will not

work here.
4009
8
Black’s turning move at 8 captures White’s just-played stone for his

second eye. Now it is White who will suffer from a shortage of liberties.
4010
9
10
White can force with the atari at 9 …
4011
11
12
… and the connection at 11, but Black 12 captures White’s single stone for
his second eye.
4012
e
e
4013
Lessons learned
4014
winding line of points (●; “snake”).
4015
Problem 032
White to kill.
4016
4017
○●○●○●○●○
1
●○●○●○●○●
> 1
> 2
> 2
> 1
> 1
> 1
> 1
> 3
> 1
> 2
> 1
> 5
> 1
2
> 2
> 3
> 3
> 3
> 9
> 10
> 11
> 11
4
> 4
> 4
> 6
Next page: Hints
4018
Hints 032
4019
e
At the top, there is a sure eye (e) for Black.
4020
White’s formation at the left ( ) is strong, but located only on the third
and forth lines.
This might result in some additional scope of action for Black.
4021
Black’s maximum potential eye space (●) might increase by two points at
the left.
4022
?
? ? ?
? ? ? ? ? ? ?
Taken together, White will have to stop Black from getting another eye in
the ?-area on the bottom and at the left.
4023
!!
!!
!!
!! !!
There are three holes (!!) in Black’s encirclement, a larger one at the left,
and smaller ones at the top and at the right.
4024
4025
3 3
Black’s pair of stones at the left has only three liberties, and so is quite
4026
White’s formation at the right ( ) is also very strong, looking forward to
friendly stones at any of the ◇-points on the first line.
4027
At the bottom right, there is a line of false eyes ( , ✕) visible.
4028
Another line of false eyes ( , ✕) in the centre of Black’s formation.
Please remember that it needs permanent stones on both ends of such lines
to make these work.
Next page: Solution
4029
Solution 032
White calmly descends to 1 at the left, giving Black no chances in the

bottom area.
White will succeed neither by playing a clamp at the right, nor by playing
hane at the left, nor by playing a clamp at the left, nor by cutting in the
4030
centre, nor by playing hane at the right, nor by jumping to the first line
from the right, nor by playing a diagonal jump to the first line at the left,
nor by playing at the top.
A
2
Black jumps to 2, aiming at maximising his potential eye space on the

bottom.
4031
3
White’s hane at 3 from the right successfully frustrates Black’s plans.
This move utilises Black’s forthcoming shortage of liberties.
4032
A
4
B
Black’s block at 4 at the left is another attempt to maximise his potential

eye space on the bottom.
Black might consider playing at A at the top, or blocking at B on the

bottom, instead.
4033
5
White 5 occupies the central point of the just created empty space.
Please note that this move reduces the liberty count of Black’s large group
to only three.
4034
A
7
6 8
Black cannot intercept at A now, due to his shortage of liberties at the

right, so he must capture at 8 instead.
4035
9
White solidly connects at 9, leaving only a false eye for Black behind on
the bottom.
4036
4037
Black 4 blocks at the top.
4038
5
White 5 occupies the central point on the bottom again.
4039
A 7
B 6 8
Black cannot capture White’s just-played stone. Black 6 and White 7 are
miai.
Black cannot intercept at A (White will capture at B), so he has to capture

at the right instead, by playing at 8.
4040
9
White 9 connects her two stones, leaving only a false eye for Black
behind.
4041
4042
Black 4 gives atari to White’s just-played stone on the first line.
To be continued …
4043
4044
Black blocks at 2, maximising his potential eye space on the bottom.
White must be on her guard now, there are several options for going
wrong.
To be continued …
4045
4046
White to kill.
4047
4048
1
> 1
> 2
> 2
> 1
> 1
> 1
> 1
> 3
> 1
> 2
> 1
> 5
> 1
2
>
> 3
> 3
> 3
> 9
> 10
> 11
> 11
4
> 4
○●○●○●○●○
> 4
●○●○●○●○●
> 6
Next page: Hints
4049
4050
e
4051
?
? ?
White will have to stop Black from getting another eye in the ?-area.
4052
4053
3 3
3 3
Black’s two pairs of stones have only three liberties, and so are quite
4054
White’s descent to the second line is very strong, massively weakening
Black’s formation nearby.
4055
In the centre of Black’s formation, there is line of false eyes ( , ✕)
available for White.
4056
1
White’s single stone on the first line is in atari.
Next page: Solution
4057
5
B A
White’s wedge at 5 is a fatal blow.
Cutting at A instead would be mistaken, Black lives by connecting at B.
4058
6
Black intercepts at 6, in an attempt to capture White’s just-played stone for

his second eye.
4059
7 8
White gives counter-atari, by playing at 7.
Black is forced to capture White’s single stone with 8.
4060
9
White 9 connects her just-played stone, leaving a false eye for Black
behind.
4061
4062
Black 6 gives atari from below.
4063
A
White will not save her single stone, by connecting at A. She gives
counter-atari at 7 instead.
4064
9
Black has only one eye, and so is dead.
4065
4066
White to kill.
4067
4068
1
> 1
> 2
> 2
> 1
> 1
> 1
> 1
> 3
> 1
> 2
> 1
> 5
> 1
2
○●○●○●○●○
> 2
●○●○●○●○●
> 3
> 3
> 3
> 9
> 10
> 11
> 11
4
> 4
> 4
> 6
Next page: Hints
4069
4070
4071
!!
!!
!! !!
There are three holes (!!) in Black’s encirclement, one at each direction.
4072
e
4073
?
? ?
? ?
White will have to stop Black from getting another eye in the ?-area on the
bottom.
4074
3 3
3
Black’s group at the left has only three liberties, and so is very vulnerable
to an attack.
4075
At the bottom right, there is a line of false eyes ( , ✕) visible.
4076
White’s formations at the right and at the left ( ) are very strong, looking
forward to friendly stones at any of the ◇-points on the first line.
Next page: Solution
4077
White’s hane at 3 successfully reduces Black’s potential eye space on the

bottom.
Please note that this move also reduced Black’s three stones above to only
two liberties.
4078
White will succeed neither by playing hane at the right, nor by playing at
the top, nor by attaching at the second line.
Black desperately gives atari at 4.
4079
5
White 5 is a counter-atari from above.
4080
9
7
8 A
White descends to 7, stopping Black from getting two eyes on the bottom
by occupying the same point.
Black 8 from below is Black’s only remaining option.
If he intercepts at 9 instead, White will give atari to his large right-hand

group, by playing at A.
White 9 connects her two stones.
4081
In some books, you can find a mirrored copy of this problem. Only this
sub-variation will be affected.
11
13 12 10
Black continues with 10 at the left, but there will be no second eye in the
corner.
Eventually, White’s hane at 13 ends the discussion. On the left, there are
only false eyes for Black.
4082
Next page: Failure
4083
032 Problem (variation II – failure I)
Black to live.
4084
4085
1
> 1
> 2
> 2
> 1
> 1
> 1
> 1
> 3
> 1
> 2
> 1
> 5
> 1
2
> 2
○●○●○●○●○
> 3
●○●○●○●○●
> 3
> 3
> 9
> 10
> 11
> 11
4
> 4
> 4
> 6
Next page: Solution
4086
032 Solution (variation II – failure I)
?
? 4
Black turning move at 4 brings his group to life.
This move contains the double threat of turning at least one of the ?-points
into an eye. These threats cannot be erased by White simultaneously.
4087
5
White’s placement at 5 destroys Black’s potential eye on the bottom.
4088
8
C
A
6 7 B
Black descends to 6, making miai of White 7 and Black 8.
White is unable to further approach at A, due to Black B, so C is a real

eye.
4089
e
4090
Lessons learned
4091
(●).
4092
Do not force your opponent to divide (one section of) their potential eye
space.
4093
!!
!!
!! !!

attack first.
4094
Problem 032 (variation II – mirrored)
This is the mirrored position after Black 9 in the solution sequence of

problem 032 (variation II).
4095
4096
1
> 1
> 2
> 2
> 1
> 1
> 1
> 1
> 3
> 1
> 2
> 1
> 5
> 1
2
>2
> 3
> 3
> 3
○●○●○●○●○
> 9
●○●○●○●○●
> 10
> 11
> 11
4
> 4
> 4
> 6
Next page: Hints
4097
Hints 032 (variation II – mirrored)
Black’s current potential eye space consists of one point (●) at the top.
This single point is already a sure eye.
4098
On the bottom, Black’s partial groups are not yet solidly connected ( ).
4099
The cutting points between Black’s groups are already only false eyes ( ,
✕).
4100
? ? ? ?
? ? ? ?
Black will have to set his hopes for another eye on the open ?-area at the
right.
4101
White’s formation at the right is very strong, but located on the fourth line
only, leaving some scope for black actions.
4102
ko
At the bottom right, there is already a ko shape visible.
Next page: Solution
4103
Solution 032 (variation II – mirrored)
10
Black jumps to 10.
Black must not play a diagonal move instead.
4104
12
11
White 11 cuts into the keima, giving atari to Black’s single stone on the
first line.
Black 12 crosscuts.
4105
13
White immediately captures at 13, giving atari to Black’s three stones

above.
4106
A
ko
However, this ko fight is disadvantageous for Black, because White has a

lot of internal ko threat, starting with White A.
On the other hand, White missed to kill Black unconditionally, so gaining

this ko still is a success for Black.
4107
○●○●○●○●○●○
4108
? ?
? ?
On the bottom, there are only a false eyes for Back ( , ✕), so the fate of
Black’s large group depends on his eye making potential in the marked
area at the right.
4109
Next page: Failure
4110
032 Problem (variation II – mirrored – failure I)
Black just played a diagonal move at the right.
White to kill.
4111
4112
1
> 1
> 2
> 2
> 1
> 1
> 1
> 1
> 3
> 1
> 2
> 1
> 5
> 1
2
>2
> 3
> 3
> 3
> 9
○●○●○●○●○
> 10
●○●○●○●○●
> 11
> 11
4
> 4
> 4
> 6
Next page: Solution
4113
032 Solution (variation II – mirrored – failure I)
11
White plays the diagonal jump to 11, successfully confining Black’s

group.
White will succeed neither by playing a diagonal move from above, nor by
playing a clamp at the right.
4114
14 12
13
Black tries to escape, by choosing the diagonal move of 12.
White forces with 13, Black must connect at 14.
4115
15
White 15 confines Black in a net. Black will be unable to escape, due to

his shortage of liberties.
On the bottom, there are only false eyes for Black.
4116
4117
Lessons learned
Playing a diagonal move ( ) for escape might be much too slow.
Next page: Failure
4118
032 Problem (variation II – mirrored – failure II)
Black to live.
4119
4120
1
> 1
> 2
> 2
> 1
> 1
> 1
> 1
> 3
> 1
> 2
> 1
> 5
> 1
2
> 2
3>
3>
3>
9>
> 10
○●○●○●○●○
> 11
●○●○●○●○●
> 11
4
> 4
> 4
> 6
Next page: Solution
4121
032 Solution (variation II – mirrored – failure II)
12
Black jumps to 12, occupying the point that White should have taken
beforehand.
4122
15 17
13 16 18 19
14
White descends to 13, forcing Black to connect along the bottom, by

playing at 14.
White’s further attempts to confine Black to the lower edge, starting with
the jump to 15, will end in vain.
4123
20
Eventually, Black cuts at 20.
White will be unable to stop Black from breaking out White’s

encirclement, or getting an eye at the right.
4124
4125
Lessons learned
Do not attack from the direction of your strong side ( ).
4126
have taken.
Next page: Failure
4127
032 Problem (variation II – mirrored – failure III)
White just played a clamp at the right.
4128
4129
1
> 1
> 2
> 2
> 1
> 1
> 1
> 1
> 3
> 1
> 2
> 1
> 5
> 1
2
> 2
> 3
> 3
> 3
> 9
10 >
> 11
○●○●○●○●○
> 11
●○●○●○●○●
4
> 4
> 4
> 6
Next page: Solution
4130
032 Solution (variation II – mirrored – failure III)
12
Black attaches at 12, occupying the point that White should have taken
beforehand.
4131
13
4132
15 14
Black’s counter-atari of 14 forces White to capture at 15. This starts a ko

fight for the life of Black’s group.
4133
ko
Black will have to find the first valid ko threat.
4134
○●○●○●○●○●○
4135
e
4136
Lessons learned
Stay away from your own thickness ( ) while attacking.
4137
ko
Do not allow your opponent to create a ko shape for defence.
4138
have taken.
Next page: Failure
4139
032 Problem (variation II – failure II)
White just played at the top of Black’s open area.
Black to live.
4140
4141
1
> 1
> 2
> 2
> 1
> 1
> 1
> 1
> 3
> 1
> 2
> 1
> 5
> 1
2
>
> 3
○●○●○●○●○
> 3
●○●○●○●○●
> 3
> 9
> 10
> 11
> 11
4
> 4
> 4
> 6
Next page: Solution
4142
032 Solution (variation II – failure II)
4
B
A C
Black is able to connect at 4, securing an eye below.
Black might consider playing at A, B, or C, instead, which will also result

in a living shape.
4143
5
White tries her best with the placement at 5.
4144
9
6 8 7
Black descends to 6, stopping White from connecting to the left.
White’s hane at 7 is frustrated by Black’s throw-in at 8.
4145
10
A B
… Black 10 gives atari to two white stones.
White is unable to connect at A, due to Black B. Black will capture at A to

get a living shape.
4146
e
e
e
4147
Lessons learned
4148
Next page: Failure
4149
032 Problem (variation II – failure III)
White just attached at the right.
Black to live.
4150
4151
1
> 1
> 2
> 2
> 1
> 1
> 1
> 1
> 3
> 1
> 2
> 1
> 5
> 1
2
>2
> 3
> 3
○●○●○●○●○
> 3
●○●○●○●○●
> 9
> 10
> 11
> 11
4
> 4
> 4
> 6
Next page: Solution
4152
032 Solution (variation II – failure III)
Black’s hane of 4 stops White from connecting under to the right.
4153
A
7 5 6
White 5 gives atari, aiming at escaping to the left.
Black is forces to connect at 6.
White extends to 7, connecting her previously played stone to the left.
Black is unable to give atari at A, due to his shortage of liberties.
4154
8
A
B
But the connection at 8 is remaining, which also gives atari to White’s

pivotal stone.
White is unable to connect at A, due to Black B, so Black has got his

second eye on the bottom.
4155
e
4156
Lessons learned
4157
eyes ( , ✕) to make it work.
4158
Do not force your opponent to turn (one section of) their potential eye
space into a long winding line of points (●; “snake”).
4159
Next page: Failure
4160
White just played a clamp at the right.
Black to live.
4161
4162
1
○●○●○●○●○
> 1
●○●○●○●○●
> 2
> 2
> 1
> 1
> 1
> 1
> 3
> 1
> 2
> 1
> 5
> 1
2
> 2
> 3
> 3
> 3
> 9
> 10
> 11
> 11
4
> 4
> 4
> 6
Next page: Solution
4163
2
A
Black solidly connects at 2, threatening to capture White’s just-played

stone.
Black might consider playing the turning move of A, or jumping to B on

the first line, instead.
4164
4
6 5 3 7
White 3 aims at connecting her just-played stone to the right.
Black forces, by playing atari at 4 and at 6.
Finally, White accomplishes her aim, by connecting at 7. But …
4165
9 8
10 A B
… Black’s combination of 8 and 10 secures his second eye at the left.
4166
e
4167
Black’s move at 2 will result in a change in the order of moves.
4168
4
6 5 3 7
White connects her just-played stone to the left, with the sequence from
White 3 to White 7.
4169
9 8
10
As before, Black 8 and 10 make sure that Black will get his second eye at
the left.
4170
e
4171
Black’s jump of 2 to the first line will also result in a change in the order
of moves.
4172
6
4
5 3 7
White connects her just-played stone to the left, with the sequence from
White 3 to White 7.
4173
9 8
10
Black 8 and 10 secure Black’s second eye on the bottom.
4174
e
4175
Lessons learned
4176
Consider carefully whether this potential dead eye shape ( , △) fills your
opponent’s potential eye space completely.
Otherwise, with several empty points (●) left, you might be caught by
surprise.
4177
4178
!!
!!
!! !!

attack first.
Next page: Failure
4179
Black to live.
4180
4181
1
>1
> 2
> 2
○●○●○●○●○
> 1
●○●○●○●○●
> 1
> 1
> 1
> 3
> 1
> 2
> 1
> 5
> 1
2
> 2
> 3
> 3
> 3
> 9
> 10
> 11
> 11
4
> 4
> 4
> 6
Next page: Solution
4182
Black blocks at 2, threatening to capture White’s just-played stone.
4183
4
Black 4 secures an eye on the point below.
4184
6
5
White’s placement at 5 is fruitless.
Black closes the borders of his position, by connecting at 6, and lives.
4185
e
4186
Lessons learned
4187
4188
? ?

second move first.
Next page: Failure
4189
White just played a clamp at the left.
Black to live.
4190
4191
1
>1
> 2
> 2
> 1
○●○●○●○●○
> 1
●○●○●○●○●
> 1
> 1
> 3
> 1
> 2
> 1
> 5
> 1
2
> 2
> 3
> 3
> 3
> 9
> 10
> 11
> 11
4
> 4
> 4
> 6
Next page: Solution
4192
Black 2 captures White’s just-played stone.
4193
A
3 4
Black 4 immobilises White’s singles stone inside his formation.
Please note that a white move at A will be gote now, due to Black’s very
resilient shape on the bottom.
4194
e
4195
Lessons learned
4196
? ?
Think twice before initiating a forcing exchange (?) that might strengthen

second move first.
Next page: Failure
4197
White just wedged in the centre of Black’s position.
Black to live.
4198
4199
1
>1
> 2
> 2
> 1
> 1
○●○●○●○●○
> 1
●○●○●○●○●
> 1
> 3
> 1
> 2
> 1
> 5
> 1
2
> 2
> 3
> 3
> 3
> 9
> 10
> 11
> 11
4
> 4
> 4
> 6
Next page: Solution
4200
Black intercepts at 2, securely capturing White’s just-played stone.
4201
3 4
White’s hane at 3 is fruitless.
Black simply blocks at 4.
4202
e
4203
Lessons learned
4204
!!
!!
!!
!! !!

attack first.
Next page: Failure
4205
Black to live.
4206
4207
1
>1
> 2
> 2
> 1
> 1
> 1
○●○●○●○●○
> 1
●○●○●○●○●
> 3
> 1
> 2
> 1
> 5
> 1
2
>
> 3
> 3
> 3
> 9
> 10
> 11
> 11
4
> 4
> 4
> 6
Next page: Solution
4208
Black’s turning move at 2 prepares for an eye above, or at the left.
4209
3 A
4210
8
C
4 A
6 5 7 B
Black blocks at 4.
White tries her best with the placement at 5.
Black’s second descent to 6 stops White from connecting to the left.
White escapes to the left, by connecting at 7, but her connection is

combined with a shortage of liberties.
4211
Black 8 brings Black’s group to life. White cannot further approach to A,
due to Black B, so C is a real eye.
4212
White 3 is a hane at the left.
4213
4
Black’s answer at 4 threatens to capture White’s just-played stone for an

eye.
4214
6
White 5 connects at the left, but Black 6 takes the miai point, gaining life
for his group.
4215
e
4216
Lessons learned
4217
space.
4218
result in a shortage of liberties.
4219
!!
!!
!!
!! !!

attack first.
Next page: Failure
4220
Black to live.
4221
4222
1
>1
> 2
> 2
> 1
> 1
> 1
> 1
> 3
○●○●○●○●○
> 1
●○●○●○●○●
> 2
> 1
> 5
> 1
2
> 2
> 3
> 3
> 3
> 9
> 10
> 11
> 11
4
> 4
> 4
> 6
Next page: Solution
4223
Black descends to 2, stopping White from connecting to the right.
4224
3
White’s jump to 3 is often a tesuji, but will not benefit White here.
4225
6 4
7 5
Black threatens by giving atari at 4 and at 6, simultaneously consolidating

his shape on the bottom.
4226
8
Eventually, Black 8 creates a living shape.
4227
e
4228
Black’s turning move at 2 aims at creating an eye either above or on the

bottom.
4229
4
3
White tries the extension to 3.
Black 4 connects solidly, making miai of capturing White’s two stones on

the bottom and closing the remaining hole in his formation.
4230
6
White jumps to 5, securely connecting her two stones on the first line, so
Black occupies the miai point of 6, securing his second eye.
4231
e
4232
Lessons learned
4233
space.
Next page: Failure
4234
Black to live.
4235
4236
1
>1
> 2
> 2
> 1
> 1
> 1
> 1
> 3
> 1
> 2
○●○●○●○●○
> 1
●○●○●○●○●
> 5
> 1
2
> 2
> 3
> 3
> 3
> 9
> 10
> 11
> 11
4
> 4
> 4
> 6
Next page: Solution
4237
Black 2 threatens to capture White’s just-played stone.
4238
A
4
5 3
White’s hane at 3 prepares for the connection to the right.
Black connects at 4, after which White 5 connects her stone.
4239
8
6 7
Black forces at 6, before securing his second eye, by playing at 8.
4240
e
4241
White 5 destroys Black’s potential eye below.
4242
A
6 8 7
Black gives atari at 6 from the left.
Please note that Black must not give atari from the right, by playing at 8,
instead. White will descend to A, leaving Black with only false eyes on the
bottom.
White 7 connects at the right, forcing Black to capture at 8 for his second
eye.
4243
e
4244
Lessons learned
4245
space into a long winding line of points (●;“snake”).
4246
Next page: Failure
4247
White just played at the top of Black’s open area.
Black to live.
4248
4249
1
>1
> 2
> 2
> 1
> 1
> 1
> 1
> 3
> 1
> 2
> 1
> 5
○●○●○●○●○
> 1
●○●○●○●○●
2
> 2
> 3
> 3
> 3
> 9
> 10
> 11
> 11
4
> 4
> 4
> 6
Next page: Solution
4250
Black’s hane at 2 maximises his potential eye space on the bottom.
4251
3 4
White blocks at 3, after which Black connects at 4.
4252
6
5
8 9 7
White’s attachment at 5 threatens to connect either to the right, or above.
Black 6 connects at the top.
Eventually, White manages to connect to the right.
4253
A
10 C B
But Black’s descent to 10 brings his group to life.
White is hindered from further approaching at A, due to Black B, so C is a

real eye.
4254
e
4255
Lessons learned
4256
4257
have taken.
4258
Problem 033
White to kill.
4259
4260
○●○●○●○●○
1
●○●○●○●○●
> 1
> 1
> 1
2
> 2
3
> 3
6
> 6
7
> 7
Next page: Hints
4261
Hints 033
Black’s potential eye space is quite large, with bulky tendencies at the left,
and elongated at the right.
4262
Please note that Black’s main cutting point in the centre of his formation is
already occupied by a white stone.
4263
2
White’s cutting stone has only two liberties, and so is in imminent danger
of being captured quite easily.
4264
3 3 3
Black’s partial group at the left has only three liberties, and so is quite
4265
!!
!!
At the left, there is a large hole (!!) in Black’s encirclement.
4266
White’s formation at the left ( ) is strong, but located on the third line
only.
4267
Black’s maximum potential eye space (●) might increase by two points at
the left.
4268
In the centre of Black’s formation, there is a dead five-point eye shape ( ,
△) visible, whose central point is still unoccupied.
Please note that Black’s potential exe space is not entirely filled by this
shape.
4269
At the left, there are two lines of false eyes ( , ✕) available, which share
their end point on the first line.
4270
Another line of false eyes ( , ✕) at the right.
Next page: Solution
4271
Solution 033
White’s diagonal move at 1 is placed at the shared end point of the marked
lines of false eyes ( , ✕). This stone is looking forward to connecting out
to the left.
White will succeed neither by playing hane at the left, nor by playing a
4272
knight’s jump on the first line, nor by jumping down to the first line at the
left.
A 2
Black 2 gives atari, but White will not connect.
4273
3
White extends to 3, aiming at connecting to the left. She wants to maintain

the marked line of false eyes ( ), because Black does not have enough
room for two eyes at the right.
White will not succeed by jumping to the first line at the left.
4274
5 4
Black tries to confine White’s stones, by playing the hane at 4.
White 5 blocks the corner, also threatening to connect her stones on the
first line.
4275
A 6
Black captures at 6, hoping for a white mistake.
To be continued …
Black might consider playing hane at A instead.
4276
4277
Black plays hane at 6, threatening to capture White’s just-played stone in

the corner.
To be continued …
4278
4279
Black descends to 2, aiming at capturing White’s two stones.
4280
3
White 3 blocks at the left, threatening to connect her stones out.
4281
7
5 4 6
Black’s descent to 4 prevents White’s escape, but does not serve to

increase the liberties of his partial group at the left.
White also descends to 5, and finally gives atari at 7. Black is one step too
late, and so dies with only one eye at the right.
4282
4283
White to kill.
4284
4285
1
> 1
> 1
> 1
2
> 2
3
> 3
6
> 6
○●○●○●○●○
7
●○●○●○●○●
> 7
Next page: Hints
4286
Black’s potential eye space is already divided into several sections.
Please note that it already contains some white stones.
4287
4288
2 2
White’s pair of stones inside Black’s formation has only two liberties, and
so is in imminent danger of being captured quite easily.
4289
!!
At the left, there is still a hole (!!) in Black’s encirclement.
4290
However, White’s formation at the left is not yet solidly connected ( ).
4291
In the centre of Black’s formation, there are two lines of false eyes ( , ✕)
available, which share their end point on the first line.
Please remember that White needs to keep a permanent stone on that

shared end point to make those lines work.
4292
Another line of false eyes ( , ✕) at the right.
4293
3 3 3
2 3
Black’s groups at the left have only two, respectively three, liberties, and
so are quite vulnerable to an attack.
4294
At the right, there is a dead three-point eye shape (△) visible, whose
Next page: Solution
4295
B
7 A
White calmly descends to 7, securely connecting her two stones to the left.
Black cannot intercept at A, due to White B.
White must not give atari in the corner instead.
4296
9 8
At the right, there is only one eye for Black’s group. Black 8 and White 9
are miai.
4297
Next page: Failure
4298
033 Problem (follow-up – failure)
White just played atari in the corner.
Black to live.
4299
4300
1
> 1
> 1
> 1
2
> 2
3
> 3
6
> 6
7
○●○●○●○●○
> 7
●○●○●○●○●
Next page: Solution
4301
A
8
Black 8 gives counter-atari in the corner.
White is hindered from capturing at A; this move would result in a snap-

back.
4302
9
Capturing at 9 is White’s only chance left.
4303
B
10
A
But Black has sufficient liberties left to give atari at 10.
4304
11
12
White connects at 11, after which Black 12 captures three white stones.
4305
B
13 A
Recapturing at White 13 is gote, and shown only for demonstrative

purposes.
Black is already the owner of the point of A, so B is a real eye.
4306
e
e
4307
Lessons learned
2 2 2
4308
4309
Remember that you will have to maintain permanent stones on both ends
of a potential line of false eyes ( , ✕) to make such a line work.
4310
White to kill.
4311
4312
1
> 1
> 1
> 1
2
> 2
3
> 3
6
○●○●○●○●○
> 6
●○●○●○●○●
7
> 7
Next page: Hints
4313
Black’s potential eye space (●) is quite large and elongated.
Please note that it already contains some white stones.
4314
Please note that Black’s main cutting point in the centre of his formation is
already occupied by a white stone.
4315
2 2 2
2 2
2
All of Black’s partial groups at the left have only two liberties, and so are
4316
2 1
White’s single stones on the second line have only two, respectively one,
liberties, and so are in imminent danger of being captured.
4317
White’s formation at the left ( ) is not yet solidly connected, leaving a
cutting point for Black to exploit.
4318
Black’s maximum potential eye space (●) might increase by several points
in the corner area.
4319
3 3
White’s pair of stones inside Black’s formation has three liberties.
4320
In the centre of Black’s formation, there are two lines of false eyes ( , ✕)
available, which share their end point on the first line.
Please remember that White needs to keep a permanent stone on that

shared end point to make those lines work.
Next page: Solution
4321
B
C 7
White 7 connects inside Black’s formation.
This move threatens to capture Black’s four stones above, by giving atari
at A. Answering at Black B would be fruitless, due to White C.
4322
10 8
9
Black 8 cuts in the corner.
White descends to 9, sacrificing two stones, instead of only one. This

move stops Black from getting a very small life in the corner.
Black continues with the atari at 10.
4323
11
White cuts at 11, giving no chances to Black. None of Black’s partial

groups can get more than only one eye, so all of Black’s stones are dead.
4324
Next page: Failure
4325
White just jumped down to the first line at the left.
Black to live.
4326
4327
1
> 1
> 1
> 1
2
> 2
3
○●○●○●○●○
> 3
●○●○●○●○●
6
> 6
7
> 7
Next page: Solution
4328
A 4
Black 4 captures one of White’s stones. He threatens to continue at A,

turning his potentially false eye into a real one.
4329
6
5
4330
7
8
White tries to escape, by giving atari at 7 in the corner, but she is stopped
by Black’s throw-in at 8.
4331
A
9
White is hindered from capturing at A, due to snap-back, and so captures

in the corner at 9 instead.
4332
B
10 D
A C
Black 10 gives atari to White’s three stones, leaving White helpless.
If White connects at B, Black will capture at A. This will make Black the
owner of the point of C, so D has become a real eye.
4333
e
e
4334
Lessons learned
4335
4336
Remember that you will have to maintain permanent stones on both ends
of a potential line of false eyes ( ) to make such a line work.
4337
? ?
Think twice before initiating a forcing exchange (?) that might strengthen

second move first.
Next page: Failure
4338
4339
4340
1
○●○●○●○●○
> 1
●○●○●○●○●
> 1
> 1
2
> 2
3
> 3
6
> 6
7
> 7
Next page: Solution
4341
Black has to intercept at 2, giving atari to White’s single stone to the right.
4342
3 4
White 3 on the first line is White’s only option left.
This counter-atari forces Black to capture at 4.
4343
5 6
White’s diagonal connection at 5 aims at reanimating the marked line of

Black captures at 6, starting a ko fight for the life of his group.
4344
ko
This ko fight is very disadvantageous for White. She cannot really hope to
win this fight, because Black has too many internal ko threats up his
sleeves.
4345
e
e e
●○●○●○●○●○●
4346
8
7
4347
12 11 10
Black 10 is an internal ko threat, forcing White to answer at 11.
4348
14
13
15
4349
17 16
B A
Black’s throw-in at 16 is his second internal ko threat.
White is unable to connect at A, due to Black B, but has to capture at 17

instead.
4350
18
4351
20
19
21
White 19 is the third valid ko threat.
4352
B
23 22 A
Black 22 is his third internal ko threat.
White is still hindered from connecting at A, due to Black B, and captures

at 23 instead.
4353
24
4354
26
25
27
White 25 is the fourth valid ko threat.
4355
28
29
White ignores Black’s ko threat of 28 in order to connect at 29, ending the

ko fight.
White needed four more valid ko threats than Black, not only one. This
means that – in a real game – Black’s group can be considered to be
virtually alive.
4356
4357
Lessons learned
4358
Remember that you will need permanent stones on both ends of a potential
line of false eyes ( , ✕) to make such a line work.
4359
? ?

second move first.
Next page: Failure
4360
Black to live.
4361
4362
1
> 1
○●○●○●○●○
> 1
●○●○●○●○●
> 1
2
> 2
3
> 3
6
> 6
7
> 7
Next page: Solution
4363
Black jumps to 2, occupying the vital point of the problem that White
4364
3 4
White cannot save her stone, and so forces at 3 instead.
Black 4 connects for the life of his group.
4365
e
e
4366
Lessons learned
4367
4368
4369
have taken.
Next page: Failure
4370
White just jumped down to the first line.
Black to live.
4371
4372
1
> 1
> 1
○●○●○●○●○
> 1
●○●○●○●○●
2
> 2
3
> 3
6
> 6
7
> 7
Next page: Solution
4373
Black jumps to 2, occupying the vital point of the problem that White
4374
3 4
White cannot save her stone, and so forces at 3 instead.
Black connects at 4, gaining two eyes for his group.
4375
e
e
4376
Lessons learned
4377
4378
4379
have taken.
4380
Problem 034
Black to kill.
4381
4382
○●○●○●○●○
1
●○●○●○●○●
> 1
> 3
> 5
> 1
> 3
> 1
> 1
2
> 2
> 2
> 3
> 3
> 2
5
> 5
> 7
> 5
Next page: Hints
4383
Hints 034
White’s potential eye space (●) is already divided into several sections.
4384
Please note that one of these cutting points at the right is already occupied
by a black stone.
4385
Black’s formation at the right ( ) is very strong, but located only on the
third line.
4386
the right.
4387
e
In the corner, White has a sure eye (e).
4388
? ?
? ? ?
? ? ?
Black will have to stop White from getting her second eye in the ?-area at
the right.
4389
On the bottom line, there are two lines of false eyes ( , ✕) visible.
4390
3 3
2 3
2
2
White’s groups at the right have only three, respectively, two liberties, and
so are very vulnerable to an attack.
4391
2
4392
At the right, there is another line of false eyes ( , ✕), which second end
point is located at the second line.
4393
Another line of false eyes ( , ✕) at the right, reaching to the first line.
4394
!!
!!
Next page: Solution
4395
Solution 034
Black jumps to 1, not trying too hard.
White’s shape on the right has too many weaknesses, which could be fixed
only by two moves in a row.
Black will succeed neither by playing atari to White’s two stones, nor by
4396
jumping down to the first line in the centre of White’s formation, nor by
playing a diagonal jump to the first line from the right, nor by playing hane
at the right.
A C 2
B
White descends to 2, aiming at maximising her eye space and at

successfully capturing Black’s cutting stone.
White might consider playing the turning move of A, or jumping to B, or
4397
playing the diagonal move at C, instead.
4 3
Black extends to 3, creating another cutting point in White’s formation.
White blocks at 4.
4398
A
5
Black 5 jumps to the first line, giving atari to the right.
This move threatens to continue with the atari at A, so White has no time
to play at the right.
Black will succeed neither by giving atari to White’s two stones, nor by
giving atari to White’s single stone on the first line.
4399
6 7
White 6 gives counter-atari, but Black captures at 7.
4400
8
4401
A
B 10 11
9
White is unable to capture Black’s stones on the bottom, Black 11 ends the
discussion here.
At the right, White has only false eyes.
At the left, the points of A and B are miai, so there is only one eye for
White. All of her stones are dead.
4402
4403
White’s turning move at 2 aims at capturing Black’s cutting stone.
To be continued …
4404
4405
White’s jump to 2 aims at confining Black’s cutting stone successfully.
To be continued …
4406
4407
The diagonal move at 2 aims at capturing Black’s cutting stone for her
second eye in good shape.
To be continued …
4408
Next page: Failure
4409
White to live.
4410
4411
1
> 1
> 3
> 5
> 1
> 3
> 1
> 1
2
> 2
> 2
> 3
> 3
> 2
5
○●○●○●○●○
> 5
●○●○●○●○●
> 7
> 5
Next page: Solution
4412
4413
A
7
Black 7 is double-atari.
Black might consider giving atari from above at A instead.
4414
9
8
Of course, White 8 connects at the left, letting Black capture at the right,
with 9.
4415
10
12
11
White 10 is an atari.
If Black connects at 11, White continues with giving atari at 12.
These two moves are miai. Black’s four stones have no chance to escape.
4416
e e
4417
Black 7 gives atari at the right.
4418
8
A B
White’s counter-atari at 8 immobilises Black’s three stones inside her

formation, which are caught in a snap-back. Black A will be answered by
White B.
4419
9
10
Black 9 saves his two stones on the first line, but this is gote, and only an
endgame issue as well.
Sooner or later, White will have to capture at 10 for her second eye.
4420
e e
4421
Lessons learned
4422
4423
4424
?
?
Think twice before initiating a forcing exchange (?). Consider carefully

whether you might be able to do without, playing your second move first.
Next page: Failure
4425
Black just played atari to White’s single stone.
White to live.
4426
4427
1
> 1
> 3
> 5
> 1
> 3
> 1
> 1
2
> 2
> 2
> 3
> 3
> 2
5
>5
> 7
○●○●○●○●○
> 5
●○●○●○●○●
Next page: Solution
4428
White saves her single stone, by extending to 6.
4429
7
Black connects at 7, saving his two stones on the first line.
4430
A
B
8
Sooner or later, White will have to give double-atari at 8.
White must do so, latest after she lost one outside liberty, e.g. at A.
If she plays elsewhere thereafter, Black will give atari at B, and White will
be hindered from connecting at 8.
4431
e
e e
e e
4432
Lessons learned
4433
4434
have taken.
4435
Black to kill.
4436
4437
1
> 1
> 3
> 5
> 1
> 3
> 1
> 1
2
○●○●○●○●○
> 2
●○●○●○●○●
> 2
> 3
> 3
> 2
5
> 5
> 7
> 5
Next page: Hints
4438
White’s potential eye space (●) is already divided into several sections,
which consists of long line of points (“snake”).
4439
e
4440
? ?
?
? ?
the right.
4441
by a black stone.
4442
Black’s cutting stone inside White’s formation is already in atari.
4443
Black’s formation at the right is very strong.
4444
!!
!!
4445
3 3
3 3
3 3
2
White’s groups at the right have only three, respectively two. liberties, and
4446
4447
At the right, there is another line of false eyes ( , ✕).
Next page: Solution
4448
Black 3 occupies the second end point of the marked line of false eyes ( ,
3).
If Black played at any other point, White would play at 3 herself, getting
an eye for sure.
4449
4
5
White descends to 4, but she will be unable to capture Black’s just-played

stone.
Black 5 extends to the left.
4450
6
White captures at 6, giving atari to Black’s single stone below.
4451
7
Black is able to securely connect at 7.
4452
8 9
10 11
Black 8 is fruitless, Black blocks at 9, connecting his four stones out.
White 10 forces Black to connect at 11, but her move did not create a real
eye on the bottom. White’s group is dead.
4453
4454
Black to kill.
4455
4456
1
> 1
> 3
> 5
> 1
> 3
> 1
> 1
2
> 2
○●○●○●○●○
> 2
●○●○●○●○●
> 3
> 3
> 2
5
> 5
> 7
> 5
Next page: Hints
4457
4458
by a black stone.
4459
e
4460
? ?
? ?
?
the right.
4461
4462
!!
At the right, there still is a small hole (!!) in White’s encirclement.
4463
4464
3 3
2 3
2
2 3
White’s groups at the right have only three, respectively, two liberties, and
4465
2
4466
At the right, there is another line of false eyes ( , ✕) available.
Next page: Solution
4467
3
A
Black’s diagonal move at 3 threatens to connect to the right.
However, Black must not give atari to White’s two stones.
4468
4
White descends to 4, stopping Black from escaping.
4469
5
Black 5 is a fatal atari.
4470
A
6 7
White 6 is answered by Black 7, capturing White’s single stone on the first

line.
If Black played 6 at 7 instead, Black would give atari at A, successfully

capturing two white stones.
4471
8
A
White 8 gives atari at the top, and Black is hindered from connecting at A.
4472
A 10 11
9 B
Black connects at 9, securely leading his stones out to the right.
White might capture at A now, but Black will connect at B. White has got
only false eyes at the right, and so is dead.
4473
4474
Black 3 jumps to the bottom line.
4475
4
White connects at 4, hoping for a Black mistake.
4476
6 5
Black 5 does not give atari to White’s four stones, but on White’s single
stone on the bottom.
4477
A
7
Black 7 securely connects to the right.
Capturing at White A is useless; this would result in only a false eye.
4478
Next page: Failure
4479
White to live.
4480
4481
1
> 1
> 3
> 5
> 1
> 3
> 1
> 1
2
>2
>2
> 3
○●○●○●○●○
> 3
●○●○●○●○●
> 2
5
> 5
> 7
> 5
Next page: Solution
4482
White 4 connects.
4483
5
Black tries to connect out, by playing the turning move at 5, but he will be
caught by surprise.
4484
8
6
7
White blocks at 6, forcing Black to give atari at 7.
White 8 gives counter-atari to Black’s three stones, which are caught in a

snap-back now.
4485
e e
e
4486
Lessons learned
4487
4488
4489
Problem 034 (variation III)
Black to kill.
4490
4491
1
> 1
> 3
> 5
> 1
> 3
> 1
> 1
2
>2
>2
> 3
> 3
○●○●○●○●○
> 2
●○●○●○●○●
5
> 5
> 7
> 5
Next page: Hints
4492
Hints 034 (variation III)
4493
by a black stone.
4494
e
4495
? ?
?
? ?
the right.
4496
4497
!!
On the bottom line, there is a small hole (!!) in White’s encirclement.
4498
4499
2
2
2
White’s groups in the centre of her formation have only two liberties, and
4500
2
Next page: Solution
4501
Solution 034 (variation III)
Black’s atari at 3 is possible here.
4502
4
4503
6 5 7
Black 5 is the second atari, and White has to answer at 6.
The turning move of Black 7 leads his stones successfully into the open.
4504
10
A 8 9
11
White tries her best by wedging in at 8, but her plans are frustrated by
Black’s atari at 9.
White gives atari at 10, but Black simply connects at 11, and is safe.
Playing a throw-in, with White 10 at 11, will not help White either.
Black A captures two White stones, not only one, so there will result no
4505
Next page: Failure
4506
White to live.
4507
4508
1
○●○●○●○●○
> 1
●○●○●○●○●
> 3
> 5
> 1
> 3
> 1
> 1
2
> 2
> 2
> 3
> 3
> 2
5
> 5
> 7
> 5
Next page: Solution
4509
4510
A 3
Black’s jump to 3 is often a tesuji for connecting, but will not benefit
Black here.
4511
4
White descends to 4, decisively weakening Black’s position at the right.
4512
9
8 7 6 5
Black 5 extends to the left, but this move will not help here.
White blocks at 6, forcing White to give double-atari at 7.
After White 8 connected at the left, Black 9 must capture at the right.
4513
10
B
A
White is unable to connect at A, due to White B.
4514
e e
4515
Black 3 plays atari to White’s four stones at the left.
4516
4
White 4 connects.
4517
5
A
Black 5 is a hane at the right, aiming at connecting his three stones out.
Black might consider jumping to A instead.
4518
8
6 B
A 7
White’s wedge at 6 is decisive.
Black tries a bamboo joint connection on the bottom, by descending to 7,

but White’s atari at 8 ends the discussion.
Black is unable to connect at A, due to his cutting point at B.
4519
e e
4520
Jumping to 5 does not help Black either.
4521
9 6
8 7
White’s descent to 6 results in a change in the order of moves.
4522
10
B
A
Eventually, White’s atari at 10 secures the capture of four black stones.
4523
e e
4524
Lessons learned
4525
4526
4527
?
?

Next page: Failure
4528
Black just jumped down to the first line.
White to live.
4529
4530
1
> 1
3>
> 5
○●○●○●○●○
> 1
●○●○●○●○●
> 3
> 1
> 1
2
> 2
> 2
> 3
> 3
> 2
5
> 5
> 7
> 5
Next page: Solution
4531
C
A B D
2
She must not give atari at A instead. Black would kill her group, using the
sequence Black B, White C, Black D.
4532
3
4 5
Black 3 gives atari, and White has to connect at 4.
Black might consider to immediately jumping to 5 instead.
Black’s jump to 5 aims at connecting his three stones to the right.
4533
9 6
8 7
We have seen White’s descent to 6 several times before.
4534
10
B
A
Black cannot stop White from giving atari at 10, successfully capturing
Black’s four stones. The points of A and of B are miai.
4535
e e
4536
Black immediately jumps to 3, without having played the atari at the left
beforehand.
4537
4
White descends to 4, as “usual”.
4538
8 6
7 5
Black pushes at 5, but his plans are frustrated by White’s turning move at
6.
Black 7 and White 8 are miai. White has got her second eye at the right,
and so a living shape,
4539
e
e
e
4540
Lessons learned
4541
4542
4543
? ?

whether you might be able to do without, playing one of the options for
your second move first.
Next page: Failure
4544
Black just played a diagonal jump at the right.
White to live.
4545
4546
1
> 1
> 3
> 5
>1
> 3
○●○●○●○●○
> 1
●○●○●○●○●
> 1
2
> 2
> 2
> 3
> 3
> 2
5
> 5
> 7
> 5
Next page: Solution
4547
White connects at 2, giving Black no chances.
4548
3
Black solidly extends to 3, securely connecting his two stones on the first
line to the right.
4549
4 5
White’s descent to 4 threatens this connection, so Black has to answer at 5.
4550
8
7 6
A B
Thereafter, White’s turning move at 6 is decisive.
If Black extends to 7, White gives atari at 8. Black is unable to connect at

A, due to White B.
4551
e e
e
4552
Lessons learned
Consider your own weaknesses while attacking.
4553
Next page: Failure
4554
White to live.
4555
4556
1
> 1
> 3
> 5
>1
> 3
> 1
○●○●○●○●○
> 1
●○●○●○●○●
2
> 2
> 2
> 3
> 3
> 2
5
> 5
> 7
> 5
Next page: Solution
4557
White 2 blocks, and Black’s position is significantly weakened by the just

created cutting point at the right ( ).
4558
3
6 4 5
Black tries his best, by giving atari twice, at 3 and at 5.
4559
8
B
A 7
Black’s descent to 7 aims at connecting along the bottom, But White’s

atari at 8 reveals Black’s shortage of liberties.
4560
e e
4561
Lessons learned
4562
4563
4564
Problem 035
Black to kill.
4565
4566
○●○●○●○●○
1
●○●○●○●○●
> 1
> 2
> 3
> 1
> 3
> 4
> 1
> 1
2
> 2
Next page: Hints
4567
Hints 035
White’s potential eye space (●) is quite bulky, with a small elongated part
at the top.
4568
4569
3 3
1
White’s stones at the right have only three, respectively one, liberties, and
so are quite vulnerable to an attack.
4570
!!
At the left, there is a hole (!!) in White’s encirclement.
4571
Black’s formation at the left is strong, looking forward to friendly stones
on any of the ◇-points inside White’s formation.
4572
4573
There is a dead five-point eye shape (△) visible inside White’s formation,
4574
Another dead eye shape that is entirely empty.
4575
Black might want to consider whether any of the dead eye shapes' central
Next page: Solution
4576
Solution 035
Black’s placement at 1 threatens to either connect to the left, or to cut

above.
Black will succeed neither by playing a clamp at the left, nor by capturing
White’s single stone at the right, nor by playing hane at the left, nor by
4577
jumping into White’s formation from the left.
A
2
White’s diagonal move at 2 is her strongest reply.
4578
3
4
Black gives atari at 3, and White must connect at 4.
4579
6
5
A
Now, Black cuts at 5.
White is unable to give atari from the right, by playing at A, and so has to
give atari from above, at 6. This move also provides White with a sure eye
above.
4580
7 8
Black cannot let White capture three of his stones for a second eye, and so
sacrifices a fourth one, giving counter-atari at 7.
4581
9
White’s capture has left a cutting point behind that is exploited by Black 9.
This move gives atari to White’s four stones, killing her entire group.
4582
4583
2 A
B
White’s turning move at 2 stops Black from cutting at A and connecting at

B.
4584
B
3 A
However, White’s right side is still undefended. Black extends to 3.
Capturing with Black 3 at A would result in a change in the order of

moves.
4585
4
5
White 4 and Black 5 are miai, so White is dead with only one eye.
4586
Next page: Failure
4587
Black just played a clamp at the left.
White to live.
4588
4589
1
○●○●○●○●○
> 1
●○●○●○●○●
> 2
> 3
> 1
> 3
> 4
> 1
> 1
2
> 2
Next page: Solution
4590
White connects at 2, securing an eye above.
She must not play the diagonal move at the first line from the right instead.
4591
3 A
Black now is forced to connect his pivotal stone out, and he does so by
playing at 3.
4592
A
5 4 B 6
White threatens Black’s connection, by playing the diagonal move at 4.
She might also give atari at A, to the same effect.
Black connects his stone to the left, by playing at 5.
White also connects, by playing at 6 at the right.
4593
e
4594
B
A 3
Black’s diagonal move at 3, occupying the vital point of the problem,

comes too late now.
Black hopes for a white mistake, but White will not descend to A,
allowing Black to return to the course of the correct solution by cutting at
4595
B.
4
5
White gives atari at 4 instead, simultaneously connecting her forces.
Black connects under at 5, but there will be no ko.
4596
B A 6
White simply gives atari at 6, and Black is unable to connect at A, due to

White B.
4597
e
e
e
4598
Lessons learned
4599
4600
Next page: Failure
4601
White just played a diagonal move at the first line.
Black to kill.
4602
4603
1
> 1
○●○●○●○●○
> 2
●○●○●○●○●
> 3
> 1
> 3
> 4
> 1
> 1
2
> 2
Next page: Solution
4604
3
B
A
Black 3 extends upwards, occupying the vital point of this shape that
White is unable to connect at A, for creating an eye on the first line at the
right, due to Black B.
4605
4 5
Descending to 4 at the left is fruitless.
Black 5 captures at the right, leaving a dead eye shape behind.
4606
4607
Lessons learned
Not every central point ( ) of every dead eye shape ( , , △) is

necessarily the vital point of the problem that should be taken without
thinking.
4608
3 3
1
Consider your remaining weaknesses while defending.
4609
have taken.
Next page: Failure
4610
Black just captured a white stone at the right.
White to live.
4611
4612
1
>1
> 2
> 3
○●○●○●○●○
> 1
●○●○●○●○●
> 3
> 4
> 1
> 1
2
> 2
Next page: Solution
4613
White plays the diagonal move at 2, occupying the vital point of the
4614
3 A
Black’s hane at 3 reduces White’s territory a bit.
4615
4 C
A B
White’s turning move at 2 secures two eyes for her group.
Black is hindered from further approaching at A and at B, so C is a real

eye.
White must not give atari at the left instead.
4616
e
e
4617
Black 3 connects at the right, aiming at a shortage of liberties on White’s

side.
4618
4
White descends to 4, maximising her potential eye space.
4619
6
5 A
Black 5 attacks the central point of White’s eye shape.
White will not connect at A, but secure two eyes for her group, by dividing
her eye space at 6.
4620
7
8 A
Black gives atari at 7, knowing that White cannot connect at A.
White 8 captures Black’s two stones inside her formation.
4621
10
9
Thereafter, Black 9 and White 10 are miai for the life of White’s group.
4622
e
4623
Lessons learned
Think twice before capturing a single opponent stone!

formation.
4624
have taken.
Next page: Failure
4625
White just blocked on the first line at the left.
Black to kill.
4626
4627
1
>1
> 2
> 3
> 1
> 3
○●○●○●○●○
> 4
●○●○●○●○●
> 1
> 1
2
> 2
Next page: Solution
4628
Black 5 connects at the right, exploiting the weaknesses in White’s

position.
4629
D
B C
6 A
White 6 captures at the left, hoping to escape her shortage of liberties at

the right.
She cannot connect at A instead. Black would give atari at B. After White
C, or White 6, Black D creates a dead eye shape inside White’s position.
4630
7
Black 7 spoils White’s shape, stopping White from successfully dividing

her potential eye space.
4631
9
8
White 8 and Black 9 are miai, so White is dead.
4632
4633
Lessons learned
When defending on the outside, do not leave a dead eye shape (△) behind,
4634
2 2
3 3
Next page: Failure
4635
White to live.
4636
4637
1
>1
> 2
> 3
> 1
> 3
> 4
○●○●○●○●○
> 1
●○●○●○●○●
> 1
2
> 2
Next page: Solution
4638
White is able to block with the atari at 2.
4639
3
4
4640
6
4641
e
4642
Lessons learned
4643
4644
Next page: Failure
4645
White to live.
4646
4647
1
>1
> 2
> 3
> 1
> 3
> 4
> 1
○●○●○●○●○
> 1
●○●○●○●○●
2
> 2
Next page: Solution
4648
2
A B
White’s turning move at 2 secures an eye above, simultaneously

immobilising Black’s just-played stone.
The points of A and of B are miai now.
4649
4 3 5
Black 3 is a nice try, but there will be no ko fight.
White simply descends to 4 at the left, giving atari to Black’s single stone.
Black 5 captures White’s single stone at the right, giving atari to White’s
pair of stones above.
4650
6
A B
White calmly connects at 6.
Black is unable to connect at A, due to White B, so White has got a living

shape.
4651
e
4652
Lessons learned
4653
4654
4655
Problem 036
4656
4657
○●○●○●○●○
1
●○●○●○●○●
> 1
> 1
> 1
> 3
> 3
2
> 2
> 4
> 4
> 2
4
> 4
> 6
> 4
5
> 5
> 5
8
> 8
Next page: Hints
4658
Hints 036
White’s potential eye space is quite large, elongated on the bottom, and
with bulky tendencies in the top left.
4659
4660
!!
!!
There are two holes (!!) in White’s encirclement, one at the top, and
another one on the bottom line at the right.
4661
On both sides, Black has already descended to the first line ( ),
weakening White’s formation nearby.
4662
3 3
3 3
3 3
3
All but one of White’s groups have only three liberties, several of which
are shared, and so are quite vulnerable to an attack.
4663
At the top, there is a dead five-point eye shape (△) visible, whose central
4664
Another dead five-point eye shape (△) at the left that is entirely empty.
4665
At the bottom right, there is a dead three-point eye shape (△) available,
entirely empty again.
4666
Next page: Solution
4667
Solution 036
Black 1 attaches at the top of White’s formation, aiming at White’s

To be continued …
4668
nor by jumping on the first line from the right, nor by pushing from the
right.
4669
4670
1
>1
>1
>1
> 3
> 3
○●○●○●○●○
2
●○●○●○●○●
> 2
> 4
> 4
> 2
4
> 4
> 6
> 4
5
> 5
> 5
8
> 8
Next page: Hints
4671
White’s potential eye space is quite large, elongated on the bottom, and
with bulky tendencies in the top left.
4672
4673
!!
!!
!!
There are two holes (!!) in White’s encirclement, one at the top, and
another one on the bottom line at the right.
4674
On both sides, Black has already descended to the first line ( ),
weakening White’s formation nearby.
4675
2 2
White’s pair of stones at the top has only two liberties, and so is in
4676
3 3
3 3
3
All but one of White’s other groups have only three liberties, several of
which are shared, and so are quite vulnerable to an attack.
4677
3
Black’s single stone inside White’s formation has three liberties.
4678
At the top, there is a dead five-point eye shape ( , △) visible, whose
4679
The other dead five-point eye shape (△) at the left has its central point still
unoccupied.
4680
At the bottom right, there is a dead three-point eye shape (△) available,
entirely empty again.
4681
Next page: Solution
4682
White extends to 2, sacrificing her two stones at the top.
White will succeed neither by blocking at the top right, nor by connecting
at the top left.
4683
3 4
Black 3 gives atari to White’s two stones above, hindering White from
getting an eye below, by playing at the same point.
White 4 connects at the right, giving atari to Black’s two stones.
To be continued …
White will succeed neither by descending at the right, nor by playing a

diagonal move at the bottom right.
4684
4685
4686
4687
1
> 1
> 1
> 1
> 3
> 3
2
> 2
> 4
> 4
> 2
4
>4
> 6
> 4
○●○●○●○●○
5
●○●○●○●○●
> 5
> 5
8
> 8
Next page: Hints
4688
White’s potential eye space is already divided into two sections.
4689
4690
1 1
White’s pair of stones at the top has only one liberty, and so is in imminent
However, we are in tsume-go here, so Black should think twice before

capturing some opponent stones that are located on the outskirts of their
formation.
4691
1 1
Black’s pair of stones inside White’s formation has only one liberty, too.
4692
However, Black’s pair of stones is equivalent to only one eye ( ).
4693
At the bottom right, there is a dead three-point eye shape visible, whose
4694
Black’s descent at the right weakens White’s formation nearby.
4695
It is looking forward to supporting the marked line of false eyes (✕) at the
right.
Next page: Solution
4696
6 5
Black 5 pushes from the right.
Black will succeed neither by capturing White’s two stones at the top, nor
by jumping on the first line from the right.
White blocks at 6, maximising her remaining potential eye space.
4697
A
B C
7
Black throws in at 7, giving atari to White’s stone at the first line.
Please note that Black must not give atari at A from the outside instead.
White will capture at B. Thereafter, Black can also capture at C, but White
will connect at 7, securing her second eye on the bottom line.
4698
A
B
8
White might consider connecting at A at the right, or capturing Black’s

two stones, by playing at B, instead.
4699
B
9
10 A
White is unable to connect at A, due to Black B, and so captures at 10.
4700
11
Black 11 captures at the right, starting a ko fight for the life of White’s
group.
4701
ko
4702
●○●○●○●○●○●
4703
e
4704
8
A
Black 8 connects at the right.
Capturing at A instead would lead to an equivalent result.
4705
9
Black captures at 9, again starting a ko fight for the life of Black’s group.
4706
ko
This is a direct ko. White has to find the first valid ko threat.
4707
●○●○●○●○●○●
4708
e
e
Next page: Failure
4709
036 Problem (follow-up II – failure I)
Black just captured two of White’s stones.
White to live.
4710
4711
1
> 1
> 1
> 1
> 3
> 3
2
> 2
> 4
> 4
> 2
4
> 4
> 6
> 4
5
○●○●○●○●○
> 5
●○●○●○●○●
> 5
8
> 8
Next page: Solution
4712
036 Solution (follow-up II – failure I)
White 6 successfully divides her remaining eye space.
4713
7
8
4714
9
A 10
At the right, Black 9 and White 10 are also miai. White has got a living
shape.
4715
e
e
4716
Lessons learned
Think twice before capturing some unimportant opponent stones.
Especially if these stones are located on the outskirts of your opponent’s

formation.
4717
(●; “snake”).
4718
4719
Next page: Failure
4720
036 Problem (follow-up II – failure II)
Black just jumped on the first line from the right.
White to live.
4721
4722
1
> 1
> 1
> 1
> 3
> 3
2
> 2
> 4
> 4
> 2
4
> 4
> 6
> 4
5
> 5
○●○●○●○●○
> 5
●○●○●○●○●
8
> 8
Next page: Solution
4723
036 Solution (follow-up II – failure II)
4724
8 7
Black 7 and White 8 are miai. White lives with two eyes.
4725
e
4726
Lessons learned
4727
Next page: Failure
4728
Black to kill.
4729
4730
1
> 1
> 1
> 1
> 3
> 3
2
> 2
> 4
> 4
> 2
4
○●○●○●○●○
> 4
●○●○●○●○●
> 6
> 4
5
> 5
> 5
8
> 8
Next page: Solution
4731
Black extends to 5, spoiling White’s shape at the right.
4732
C
A
B 6
White tries the move at 6, aiming at dividing her remaining potential eye
space on the bottom.
Please note that Black his hindered from further approaching at A, so B is

a real eye.
White might consider connecting at C instead.
4733
7
8
Black throws in at 7, and White captures at 8.
4734
9
Black 9 turns White’s potential eye at the right into a false one, killing her
entire group.
4735
4736
4737
7 A
Black’s placement at 7 is the fatal blow.
White is hindered from dividing her potential eye space, by playing at A,

and so is dead.
4738
4739
Lessons learned
!!
Closing a hole (!!) in your encirclement …
4740
… might not serve to partition your remaining potential eye space (●).
4741
When playing on the outside, do not leave a dead eye shape (△) behind,
…
4742
… whose central point is still unoccupied.
4743
Mind your remaining weaknesses …
4744
3
3
3
… while defending.
4745
have taken.
Next page: Failure
4746
White just played a diagonal move on the bottom right.
Black to kill.
4747
4748
1
> 1
> 1
> 1
> 3
> 3
2
> 2
> 4
> 4
> 2
4
>4
> 6
○●○●○●○●○
> 4
●○●○●○●○●
5
> 5
> 5
8
> 8
Next page: Solution
4749
Black extends to 5, spoiling White’s shape at the right.
4750
6
White 6 and Black 7 are miai. White cannot create a real eye at the right,
and so is dead.
4751
4752
Lessons learned
4753
Mind even potential lines of false eyes (✕).
4754
4755
have taken.
Next page: Failure
4756
White just blocked at the top right.
Black to kill.
4757
4758
1
> 1
> 1
> 1
> 3
> 3
2
○●○●○●○●○
> 2
●○●○●○●○●
> 4
> 4
> 2
4
> 4
> 6
> 4
5
> 5
> 5
8
> 8
Next page: Solution
4759
Black descends to 3, threatening to continue with the atari at A.
4760
A
B
4 5
White 4 takes a liberty of Black’s two stones inside her formation.
White might consider connecting at A at the top, or at B at the left, instead.
Black jumps to 5 at the right.
4761
9
B 7
8
A 6
White intercepts at 6, aiming to capture Black’s just-played stone for her

second eye.
But Black 7 is an atari, and Black 9 is even a double-atari, so White is

helpless.
The points of A and of B are miai, so White is dead.
4762
4763
White 4 connects in the top right.
4764
7
8
5 6
Black jumps to 5, forcing White to intercept at 6.
4765
9
10
Black 9 gives atari from the inside, forcing White to capture at 10.
4766
A
11 B
Black’s atari at 11 is the fatal blow.
White cannot connect at A, due to Black B, and so is dead with only one
eye.
4767
4768
White 4 solidly connects at the left.
4769
5
Black jumps to 5, as “usual”.
4770
9
7
8
10 6
White 6 stops Black from connecting to the right.
But Black 7 and 9 are atari.
4771
A
11 B
Eventually, Black’s atari at 11 at the left leaves White helpless. She cannot
connect at A, due to Black B.
4772
4773
Lessons learned
!!
!!
4774
4775
!!
Mind a remaining hole (!!) in your formation.
This might become the source of your defeat.
4776
behind, …
4777
4778
2 2
3
3
4779
have taken.
Next page: Failure
4780
036 Problem (follow-up I – failure IV)
White just connected solidly at the top left.
Black to kill.
4781
4782
1
> 1
> 1
> 1
> 3
> 3
2
>2
> 4
> 4
○●○●○●○●○
> 2
●○●○●○●○●
4
> 4
> 6
> 4
5
> 5
> 5
8
> 8
Next page: Solution
4783
036 Solution (follow-up I – failure IV)
Black’s descent at 3 threatens to continue at A.
4784
4
White 4 closes the gap in her encirclement.
Black jumps to 5, aiming at exploiting White’s shortage of liberties at the

right.
4785
7
8
6
White intercepts at 6.
Black’s atari at 7 forces White to connect at 8.
4786
9
10
Black 9 gives atari from the inside.
4787
A
11 B
Black 11 is the final atari.
White is unable to connect at A, due to Black B, so White’s group is dead.
4788
4789
Lessons learned
Think twice before connecting some unimportant stones that might

Especially if this potential sacrifice is located on the outskirts of your

encirclement.
4790
!!
!!
4791
3 3
3 3
3
4792
behind, …
4793
4794
have taken.
Next page: Failure
4795
Black just attached inside White’s formation.
White to live.
4796
4797
1
○●○●○●○●○
> 1
●○●○●○●○●
> 1
> 1
> 3
> 3
2
> 2
> 4
> 4
> 2
4
> 4
> 6
> 4
5
> 5
> 5
8
> 8
Next page: Solution
4798
White’s turning move at 2 occupies the vital point of the problem that
4799
3
A
Black 3 extends to the left, threatening to give double-atari, by playing at

A.
4800
4
White 4 immobilises Black’s two stones above.
4801
5
6 9
10
8 7
Black can do no more than to reduce White’s territory from the outside,
with his moves at 5, 7 and 9.
But White will get two eyes for the life of her group.
4802
e
e
4803
Lessons learned
4804
4805
have taken.
Next page: Failure
4806
Black just played a jump on the first line.
White to live.
4807
4808
1
> 1
○●○●○●○●○
> 1
●○●○●○●○●
> 1
> 3
> 3
2
> 2
> 4
> 4
> 2
4
> 4
> 6
> 4
5
> 5
> 5
8
> 8
Next page: Solution
4809
White intercepts at 2, maximising her potential eye space on the bottom.
4810
5 3
6 4
Black 3 attaches at the top, occupying the vital point of the problem. But
this move comes too late now.
White answers with 4, threatening to build an eye, by continuing at 5.
Black’s atari at 5 is answered by White’s counter-atari at 6, which also

consolidates White’s shape at the left.
4811
7
4812
8
White 8 divides her eye space successfully, she lives with two eyes.
4813
e e
4814
Lessons learned
4815
4816
!!
!!

attack first.
4817
a long winding line of points (●; “snake”).
Next page: Failure
4818
Black just pushed at the right.
White to live.
4819
4820
1
> 1
> 1
○●○●○●○●○
> 1
●○●○●○●○●
> 3
> 3
2
> 2
> 4
> 4
> 2
4
> 4
> 6
> 4
5
> 5
> 5
8
> 8
Next page: Solution
4821
White extends to 2, strengthening her shape at the left.
4822
B
A
Black’s jump to 3 aims at destroying White’s potential eye shape on the

first line.
Black might consider cutting at A, or playing at B, instead.
4823
4
White connects at 4 in the upper left, securing two eyes for her group.
4824
5
6
Black 5 is answered by White 6. White has got two eyes, and so is alive.
4825
e
e
4826
Black 3 cuts in the upper left.
4827
4
White 4 immobilises Black’s intruder.
4828
6
5
Black 5 is an atari, but this cannot be helped.
4829
10
8
7 9
Black jumps to 7, hoping for a ko fight.
But White connects at 8, forcing Black to connect at 9 on the bottom.
Eventually, White 10 builds her second eye.
4830
e e
4831
Black 3 attacks at the top.
4832
4
White blocks at 4, securing an eye on the bottom.
4833
6 5 7
Black tries to destroy White’s eye at the left, by playing at 5 and 7, but
White connects at 8, and all of Black’s efforts will end in vain.
4834
e
e
4835
Lessons learned
4836
!!
!!

attack first.
4837
4838
Problem 037
Black to kill.
4839
4840
○●○●○●○●○
1
●○●○●○●○●
> 1
> 3
> 8
2
> 2
> 3
> 5
> 4
> 6
> 10
> 10
> 9
5
> 5
> 8
> 5
> 7
> 7
6
> 6
> 6
8
> 8
Next page: Hints
4841
Hints 037
Black’s potential eye space is quite large, but also with strong bulky
tendencies at the left.
4842
4843
!!
!!
!! !!
There are three holes (!!) in White’s encirclement, a larger one at the left,
4844
3 3
3
White’s group in the centre of her formation has only three liberties, and
so is quite vulnerable to an attack.
4845
At the left, there is a dead six-point eye shape (△) visible, whose central
4846
The second option for this dead six-point eye shape (△).
4847
The third option for this dead six-point eye shape (△).
4848
4849
4 4 4
However, White’s group at the right has four liberties, and so might not
4850
Black’s formation at the left is strong, but located only on the third line.
4851
the left.
4852
At the left, there is a line of false eyes ( , ✕) visible.
Next page: Solution
4853
Solution 037
Black 1 pushes into White’s formation from above.
Black will not succeed by occupying the central point of White’s

formation instead.
4854
2
A
White blocks at 2, aiming at maximising her potential eye space on the

bottom.
4855
4
3
Black 3 gives atari to White’s three stones above, forcing White to connect
at 4.
White’s formation is cut apart now. Black cannot hope to capture White’s
three stones at the right, but will try reducing White’s potential eye space
at the left, while White is busy capturing Black’s just-played stone.
4856
A
5
Black calmly jumps to 5, giving White no chances. This is the only move
that is shown in the books.
Alternatively, Black might consider extending to A instead.
However, Black will not succeed by playing hane at the right.
4857
B A
7 6
White 6 gives atari from below. She will capture Black’s single stone and
also hopes for an eye at the right.
White might consider descending to A, or playing the wedge at B, instead.
Black 7 jumps further into White’s position, aiming at implementing the

marked line of false eyes ( , ✕).
4858
10
8 A 9
White extends to 8, stopping Black from turning her eye at the left into a
false one.
White might consider immediately capturing at 10 instead.
But White suffers from a shortage of liberties at the right. Black plays the
hane of 9, and White is unable to block at A.
4859
11
Black extends to 11, stopping White from getting her second eye, by
playing at the same point. White has only one eye, and so is dead.
4860
4861
White 8 captures Black’s cutting stone immediately.
4862
9
Black extends to 9, creating a false eye for White.
4863
13 12 10
11
White tries to capture Black’s stones on the bottom line, by playing at 10

and 12, but her plans are finally frustrated by Black’s block at 13, securely
leading his stones out into the open.
White’s group has only one eye at the right, and so is dead.
4864
4865
White descends to 6, maximising her potential eye space.
4866
7
Black extends to 7, sacrificing two stones, instead of only one.
His two stones have three liberties now, as many as White’s three stones at
the right.
4867
8
10 12 11 9
While White is busy with capturing Black’s troublemakers inside her

position, starting with her move at 8, Black destroys her potential territory
on the bottom right, by playing at 9 and 11.
4868
13
Black’s previous move was sente, enabling Black to continue at the left.
Black extends to 13, destroying White’s potential eye at the left.
4869
4870
White’s wedge at 6 is a nice try, but it will not serve to strengthen White’s
position decisively.
4871
7 8
Black blocks at the left, by playing the atari of 7.
White 8 immobilises Black’s cutting stone.
4872
9
Black jumps to 9, destroying White’s potential eye space at the left.
4873
11 10
White 10 and Black 11 are miai. White can only get one eye on the right.
4874
13
12
Throwing in at White 12 does not help here.
Black 13 captures two white stones, leaving White helpless.
4875
4876
Black 5 extends inside White’s formation, sacrificing two stones, instead

of only one.
Please note that Black’s pair of stones has as many liberties as White’s
cut-off group at the bottom right.
4877
6
7
White 6 immobilises Black’s two stones.
Black’s hane of 7 starts the partial semeai at the right.
4878
A
8 10 9
White continues with giving atari at 8.
White might consider playing hane at A at the left instead.
White 10 captures only two black stones.
4879
11 13
12
Black’s final descent to 11 is fatal.
White 12 and Black 13 are miai, so White can get only a false eye at the
left.
4880
4881
White tries the hane of 8 at the left.
4882
9
Black 9 gives atari to White’s group at the right, deciding the partial
semeai there in his favour.
4883
13
10 11
12 A
White tries to expand her potential eye space by jumping to 10.
Simply extending to 11 instead will be stopped by Black 10, making miai

of White 12 and Black A.
Black intercepts with the turning move at 11.
Black’s diagonal move at 13 stops White from getting two eyes in the
corner.
4884
15
16 14
17
White continues with 14, but after Black solidly connected at 15, White 16
and Black 17 are miai.
White has got an eye in the corner, but will be unable to create another one
at the right.
4885
20
19 18
Capturing with White 20 is fruitless.
4886
21
Black’s throw-in at 21 turns White’s potential eye at the right into a false
one.
4887
4888
White plays the diagonal move of 2, protecting her cutting point at the
right.
To be continued …
4889
Next page: Failure
4890
White to live.
4891
4892
1
> 1
> 3
> 8
2
> 2
> 3
> 5
> 4
> 6
> 10
> 10
> 9
5
>5
> 8
○●○●○●○●○
> 5
●○●○●○●○●
> 7
> 7
6
> 6
> 6
8
> 8
Next page: Solution
4893
6
B A
White 6 gives atari to Black’s cutting stone from above.
Please note that White must not give atari from below, by playing at A,
instead.
Black will jump to B at the left, in principle returning to the course of the
4894
correct solution.
A
7
Black descends to 7, sacrificing two stones, instead of only one. But he

will not succeed here.
Black might consider playing hane at A, or jumping down to B on the

bottom line, instead.
4895
9 8
10
White’s hane at 8 enlarges her potential eye space at the left.
Black blocks at 9, and White is forced to defend her cutting point, by using
the diagonal move at 10.
4896
A
12 13 11
Now, Black must capture White’s three stones at the right, so saving his
two cutting stones, starting with the atari at 11.
However, White’s descent to 12 is sente, closing the borders of her

formation, and forcing Black to capture at 13.
Black has no time to play at A, reducing White’s shape at the left to only
one eye.
4897
White would capture at 13, getting her second eye at the right.
14
White 14 occupies the central point of her eye space. She is alive with two
eyes.
4898
e
e
4899
Black’s hane at 7 attacks White’s potential eye space at the left.
4900
8
White 8 captures Black’s cutting stone.
4901
B A
D E 10 C 9
Black extends to 9, stopping White from getting her second eye at the
right.
Thereafter, White lives by playing the diagonal move of 10.
Black is hindered from further approaching at A, due to White B, so C is a

real eye.
However, White must not play at A instead. Black would play double-hane
4902
at 10, forcing White to fight an uncalled-for ko for the life of her group
(either by cutting at B, or by giving atari at C, followed by Black D and
White E in either case).
11 12
14 13
Black can still force from the outside, but cannot prevent White getting
two eyes.
4903
e
e
4904
7 A
Black 7 jumps down to the first line at the left, aiming at continuing with
another jump to A. But this move comes too late now.
4905
8
White descends to 8, frustrating Black’s plans.
4906
10 9
Black’s extension to 9, sacrificing two stones instead of only one, will not
lead to success here.
White descends to 10, securely capturing Black’s two stones at the right,
as well as creating another eye at the left.
4907
e e
4908
Lessons learned
!!
!! !!

attack first.
4909
4910
Black to kill.
4911
4912
1
> 1
> 3
> 8
2
○●○●○●○●○
> 2
●○●○●○●○●
> 3
> 5
> 4
> 6
> 10
> 10
> 9
5
> 5
> 8
> 5
> 7
> 7
6
> 6
> 6
8
> 8
Next page: Hints
4913
White’s maximum potential eye space is already divided into two sections,
one point at the top and an elongated part at the bottom.
4914
4915
!!
!!
!! !!
There are three holes (!!) in White’s encirclement, a larger one at the left,
4916
2 2
2
White’s three stones at the top have two liberties only, and so are very
4917
At the bottom right, there is a dead three-point eye shape (△) visible,
4918
At the left, there is a dead five-point eye shape (△) that is also entirely
empty.
4919
4920
At the top, there is another line of false eyes ( , ✕).
Next page: Solution
4921
Black’s placement of 3 on the first line spoils White potential eye space.
Black must not push at the top for a second time instead.
4922
A
4
White descends to 4, preparing for an eye at the right.
4923
6
7 5
Black’s jump attachment at 5 threatens to connect upwards.
White 6 and Black 7 are miai here.
4924
8 9
White’s descent to 8 captures Black’s single stone on the bottom for an

eye.
Black’s hane at 9 destroys White’s potential eye at the right, so White is

dead.
4925
4926
White’s hane at 4 aims at maximising her potential eye space at the left.
4927
5 A
6
Black blocks at 5, and White continues by descending to 6.
White might consider extending to A instead.
4928
7
9 8 A
10
Black 7 pushes from above.
White’s potential eye space at the right is not large enough for two eyes, so
White has to block at 8.
Black’s throw-in at 9 serves to create a false eye at this point.
4929
White captures at 10, but there still is the black troublemaker inside her
formation, occupying the central point of her potential eye space.
12
11
13 14 15
Black gives atari at 11, forcing White to connect at 12, before extending to
13.
White 14 and Black 15 are miai. White has no chance to get more than a
dead eye shape inside her formation, so her group is dead.
4930
4931
10
11 9
12
Black 9 immediately gives atari. This move will result in a change in the
order of moves.
Black 11 throws in at the left, creating a false eye there.
4932
A 13 15 14
After Black 13, there still is the miai of White 14 and Black 15 at the right.
In principle, White would be forced to continue at A, to save her four

stones at the right. But she will capture only a dead eye shape, so this
move is fruitless.
4933
4934
Variation for White 6 (White 4)
White extends to 6, hoping for a better potential eye shape.
4935
8
7
Black 7 gives atari, forcing White to connect at A.
4936
9
A
10 12 11
Black 9 calmly pushes from above, not trying too hard.
White 10 gives atari to Black’s two cutting stones.
White might consider connecting at A, or descending to 11, instead.
Black’s hane at 11 forces White to capture at 12.
4937
15
14 13 16
Black’s placement of 13 at the left is the fatal blow.
Here, White captures at 16, but will not get a real eye.
4938
17
Black throws in at 17, creating a false eye for White.
4939
4940
Variation for White 10 (I) (White 6 (White 4))
10
4941
11 12 13
Black’s hane at 11 reduces White’s potential eye space from the left.
White blocks at 12, forcing Black to add a third stone inside her formation,
by playing at 13.
4942
A 15 14
White 14 and Black 15 are miai. White has only one large eye, and so is
dead.
In principle, White would have to play atari at A in order to save her

stones at the right. But she will not do so, as she would capture only a dead
eye shape thereafter.
4943
4944
Variation for White 10 (II) (White 6 (White 4))
10
White’s descent to 10 at the right hopes for a black mistake.
4945
12 11 A
Black calmly plays the turning move of 11.
He must not hastily play at A instead. White will give atari at 12.
Capturing three black stones (after Black’s move at 11) means sente for
White at the right, so she will be able to successfully defend her position at
the left, and get a second eye there.
White 12 gives atari, stopping Black from capturing her four stones at the
4946
right.
13
Black’s placement at 13 is fatal.
4947
14
15
White cannot get more than only a false eye at the left, so her group is
dead.
4948
Next page: Failure
4949
037 Problem (variation – failure)
Black just pushed from above.
White to live.
4950
4951
1
> 1
> 3
> 8
2
> 2
○●○●○●○●○
> 3
●○●○●○●○●
> 5
> 4
> 6
> 10
> 10
> 9
5
> 5
> 8
> 5
> 7
> 7
6
> 6
> 6
8
> 8
Next page: Solution
4952
037 Solution (variation – failure)
White 4 occupies the vital shape point on the bottom that Black should
4953
5
B A
Black 5 gives atari to White’s three stones, but she will not connect at A.
Black might consider descending to B instead.
4954
6 7
White descends to 6, letting Black capture three of her stones, by playing

at 7.
4955
8
White recaptures at 8, and is alive.
4956
10 9
Black 9 reduces White’s territory from the right.
4957
11 12 A
13 14 B C
Black attacks at the left by descending to 11, but White is able to connect
her two stones at 12.
White is the owner of the point of A, so B and C are real eyes.
4958
e e
4959
Black descends to 5, securely capturing White’s two stones at the left.
4960
6
White 6 occupies the miai point, bringing her group to life.
4961
7 8 10 9
Black’s further attacks on the bottom line end in vain. White is alive with
two eyes.
4962
e
e
4963
Lessons learned
4964
Think twice before threatening to capture a partial group of your opponent,
which is located on the outskirts of their formation.
4965
4966
4967
Your opponent will think twice before connecting some of their stones that
might be put in atari.
4968
have taken.
Next page: Failure
4969
Black just played inside White’s position.
White to live.
4970
4971
1
○●○●○●○●○
> 1
●○●○●○●○●
> 3
> 8
2
> 2
> 3
> 5
> 4
> 6
> 10
> 10
> 9
5
> 5
> 8
> 5
> 7
> 7
6
> 6
> 6
8
> 8
Next page: Solution
4972
2 A
White’s diagonal move at 2 from the left takes Black by surprise.
Connecting at A instead would be thought much too simple.
4973
4
Black extends to 3, also cutting at the right.
White’s three stones there have only three liberties, as many as Black’s
two stones, and so are in imminent danger of being captured.
Black might consider pushing at 4 instead.
White’s connection of at the top, closing the hole in her formation, is her
second surprise for Black.
4974
6
7 5
Black attacks White’s three stones at the right, starting with the hane at 5.
White 6 takes a liberty of Black’s two stones, securing an eye point

nearby.
Black 7 is the final atari to White’s three stones, which cannot escape, but
which have been sacrificed on purpose.
4975
9 8
10
White enlarges her potential eye space at the left, by playing hane at 8.
Black blocks at 9, but White 10 on the first line secures two eyes for her
group.
4976
e
e
4977
Black’s push from above at 3 hopes for a white mistake.
4978
5 6
4
White connects at 4, letting Black push again at 5.
White 6 immobilises Black’s single stone.
4979
7
Black tries his best by descending to 7, sacrificing two stones, instead of

only one.
4980
9 8
White’s hane at 8 at the left successfully enlarges her potential eye space.
White’s eye space is too large now to become filled with a dead eye shape.
White must not give atari to Black’s two stones instead.
Black blocks at 9, but will be unable to connect his two stones out along
the bottom line.
4981
10
White descends to 10 at the right, maximising her potential eye space.
4982
11
Black tries to connect along the bottom, by giving atari at 11.
4983
12
13 14
But White has sufficient liberties left to connect at 12, saving all her stones
at the left.
Black cannot stop White from divide her eye space at the first line, so her
group is alive.
4984
e
e
4985
Lessons learned
4986
4987
Do not assume that your opponent will solidly connect every threatened
cutting point without thinking.
4988
Do not assume that your opponent will save every of their partial groups
without thinking.
4989
Consider carefully whether your opponent’s remaining potential eye space
(●) will be sufficient for two eyes.
Next page: Failure
4990
White just played atari to Black’s two stones.
Black to kill.
4991
4992
1
>1
> 3
○●○●○●○●○
> 8
●○●○●○●○●
2
> 2
> 3
> 5
> 4
> 6
> 10
> 10
> 9
5
> 5
> 8
> 5
> 7
> 7
6
> 6
> 6
8
> 8
Next page: Solution
4993
Black’s hane of 9 at the right successfully reduces White’s potential eye

space.
4994
10
4995
13 12
14 11
Black extends to 11, occupying the miai point.
White tries her best, trying to get an eye at the left, by playing double-hane
at 12 and 14.
4996
15
But Black 15 throws in, leaving White with only a false eye behind.
There will be no eye for White in the corner as well, so her group is dead
with only one eye.
4997
4998
Lessons learned
4999
!!
It might become the source of your defeat.
5000
Mind the lines of false eyes ( , ✕).
5001
5002
Problem 038
Black to kill.
5003
5004
○●○●○●○●○
1
●○●○●○●○●
> 1
> 3
> 4
> 1
> 3
> 4
> 1
> 3
> 1
> 1
2
> 2
> 3
> 5
> 3
> 3
> 6
3
> 3
> 3
> 3
> 5
> 5
> 8
6
> 6
> 7
> 7
Next page: Hints
5005
Hints 038
White’s potential eye space (●) has strong bulky tendencies.
5006
5007
!! !!
There are two holes (!!) in White’s encirclement.
5008
Black’s formations at the right and at the left are very strong, looking
forward to a friendly stone on any of the ◇-points at the first line.
5009
2
White’s single stone at the top has only two liberties, and so is very
5010
4
4
White’s pair of stones at the left has four liberties, two of which are shared
with her single stone at the top.
5011
Combining White’s weakness ( ) and Black’s strength ( ) at the left, it
might not be unlikely that White will suffer from a shortage liberties in
this area.
5012
At the top, there is a line of false eyes ( , ✕) visible.
5013
Two other lines of false eyes ( , ✕) are available on each side of White’s
formation.
Next page: Solution
5014
Solution 038
Black’s hane of 1 from the left not only reduces White’s potential eye
space, but also massively weakens Black’s formation at left, by taking a
liberty of White’s two stones there.
Black will succeed neither by attaching at the centre of White’s three
5015
stones, nor by playing hane at the right, nor by playing a clamp at the left,
nor by jumping on the first line from the left, nor by jumping deep into
A
2
White blocks immediately, by giving atari at 2.
To be continued …
5016
5017
White tries the turning move at 2 here, hoping for a black mistake.
To be continued …
5018
5019
Black to kill.
5020
5021
1
> 1
> 3
> 4
> 1
> 3
> 4
> 1
> 3
> 1
> 1
2
> 2
3>
> 5
> 3
> 3
> 6
○●○●○●○●○
3
●○●○●○●○●
> 3
> 3
> 3
> 5
> 5
> 8
6
> 6
> 7
> 7
Next page: Hints
5022
White’s potential eye space is quite large, with bulky tendencies at the
right.
5023
5024
!!
At the right, there is a hole (!!) in White’s encirclement.
5025
Black’s formation at the right is very strong, looking forward to a friendly
stone on any of the ◇-points at the first line.
5026
2
3
3
2
White’s partial groups at the left have only three, respectively two,
liberties, some of which are shared, and so are very vulnerable to an attack.
5027
5028
Another line of false eyes ( , ✕) is available at the right side of White’s
formation.
5029
5030
At the right, there is a dead five-point eye shape (△) that is also entirely
empty.
5031
Another dead five-point eye shape (△) at the right, which is entirely
empty.
5032
Next page: Solution
5033
Black plays his second hane of 3 at the right.
Black will succeed neither by attaching at the centre of White’s formation,

nor by giving atari from above at the left, nor by giving atari by playing on
the bottom line.
5034
4
White 4 blocks again, by giving atari to Black’s just-played stone.
5035
B
A 5
Black 5 occupies the central point of the marked five-point dead eye shape
(△, 5).
White has no time to connect at A now, because Black’s atari at B would

turn her potential eye into a false one.
5036
B
6
A
White descends to 6, aiming at immobilising Black’s single stone at the

right, building a living shape by continuing at A, and creating another eye
at the left.
White might consider connecting at B instead.
5037
A
8 7 B
Black descends to 7, stopping White from getting two eyes easily, and also
giving atari to White’s single stone on the bottom.
White 8 securely captures two black stones, creating a snap-back.
White might connect at A, or capture at B, instead, to the same effect.
5038
A
9
Black’s throw-in at 9 finally destroys White’s potential eye shape at the

left.
Black’s pivotal -stone stops White from connecting at A, due to her

5039
10
A
Capturing at A instead will not help either.
5040
11
Black 11 gives atari at the top, turning White’s potential eye into a false
one.
White has only one real eye at the bottom, and so is dead.
5041
5042
White 6 connects in the top left, maximising her potential eye space.
To be continued …
5043
5044
Problem 038 (follow-up – variation)
Black to kill.
5045
5046
1
> 1
> 3
> 4
> 1
> 3
> 4
> 1
> 3
> 1
> 1
2
> 2
> 3
> 5
> 3
> 3
> 6
3
> 3
> 3
> 3
> 5
> 5
> 8
6
○●○●○●○●○
> 6
●○●○●○●○●
> 7
> 7
Next page: Hints
5047
Hints 038 (follow-up – variation)
White’s potential eye space is quite bulky, but still has several options for
partitioning.
5048
5049
2 2
2
2 2
2 2
All but one of White’s groups have only two liberties, several of which are
shared, and so are very vulnerable to an attack.
5050
At the right, there is a dead five-point eye shape ( , △) visible, whose
5051
Another dead five-point eye shape ( , △) at the left, whose central point
is still unoccupied.
5052
1 1
Both Black’s single stones on the bottom line have only one liberty, and so
are in imminent danger of being captured.
Next page: Solution
5053
Solution 038 (follow-up – variation)
Black 7 cuts at White’s unprotected cutting point at the left, giving double-
atari.
Black will succeed neither by cutting at the right, nor by descending inside
5054
8
White is forced to capture at 8, stopping Black from connecting to the left

along the edge.
5055
A
9 B
C
Black 9 calmly connects inside White’s formation.
This move threatens to continue with the atari at A, thereafter capturing

White’s stones at the left.
However, Black must not cut at B, giving double-atari at the right. White
will capture at C, and there will result an uncalled-for ko fight for the life
of White’s group.
5056
A
B 10
White tries her best by extending to 10, hoping to immobilise Black’s

three stones above.
If she connects at A instead, Black will answer by playing at B. This

results in a dead eye shape on the bottom, killing White.
5057
11
13 12 A
But Black cuts at 11 and gives atari at 13 thereafter.
White is unable to connect at A, due to Black’s earlier played hane of at

the right.
5058
Next page: Failure
5059
038 Problem (follow-up – variation – failure I)
Black just cut at the right.
5060
5061
1
> 1
> 3
> 4
> 1
> 3
> 4
> 1
> 3
> 1
> 1
2 >
> 3
> 5
> 3
> 3
> 6
3
> 3
> 3
> 3
> 5
> 5
> 8
6
> 6
○●○●○●○●○
> 7
●○●○●○●○●
> 7
Next page: Solution
5062
038 Solution (follow-up – variation – failure I)
5063
9
10
It is correct for Black to immediately cut at the right, by playing at 9,

simultaneously giving atari to White’s single stone below.
White 10 gives counter-atari to Black’s two stones.
5064
11
Black 11 captures, starting a ko fight for the life of White’s group.
5065
ko
This ko is disadvantageous for White, because Black has an internal ko

threat up his sleeves.
5066
●○●○●○●○●○●
5067
12
13
14
5068
15
16
Black 15 gives atari to White’s four stones at the left.
White cannot allow these stones to become captured, so she captures at 16.
5069
17
Black 17 recaptures the ko at the right.
5070
18
19
20
5071
21
22

ko fight.
White needed two more ko threats than Black to win the ko fight, not only
one.
5072
e e
e
5073
Lessons learned
Think twice before giving atari (or even double-atari, as here).
5074
5075
ko
Next page: Failure
5076
038 Problem (follow-up – variation – failure II)
Black just descended inside White’s formation.
White to live.
5077
5078
1
> 1
> 3
> 4
> 1
> 3
> 4
> 1
> 3
> 1
> 1
2
> 2
> 3
> 5
> 3
> 3
> 6
3
> 3
> 3
> 3
> 5
> 5
> 8
6
>6
> 7
○●○●○●○●○
> 7
●○●○●○●○●
Next page: Solution
5079
038 Solution (follow-up – variation – failure II)
White simply connects at 8, occupying a liberty of Black’s two stones

inside her formation.
5080
9
10
Black cut at 9 is his only valid choice left; this move is also a double-atari.
White has to capture at 10.
5081
12
11
A
Black tries his best by connecting at 11, aiming at creating a dead eye
shape inside White’s formation.
But White gives atari at 12, and Black is hindered by the rules to play at A.
By capturing these four stones, White will get a living shape.
5082
e
e
5083
Lessons learned
5084
Do not be surprised, if your opponent actually saves an important stone
5085
When attacking, do not leave a dead eye shape ( , △) behind, whose
5086
?
?

Next page: Failure
5087
5088
5089
1
> 1
> 3
> 4
> 1
> 3
> 4
> 1
> 3
> 1
> 1
2
> 2
> 3
> 5
> 3
> 3
> 6
3
○●○●○●○●○
> 3
●○●○●○●○●
> 3
> 3
> 5
> 5
> 8
6
> 6
> 7
> 7
Next page: Solution
5090
White’s attachment of 4 on the first line his her only chance to stop Black
from creating a dead eye shape inside her formation at the right quite
easily.
5091
5
6
Black extends to 5, stopping White from getting a living shape by

occupying the same point.
White’s descent to 6 at the right maximises her remaining potential eye

space.
5092
8
7
9
Black 7 cuts at the left, forcing Black to connect at 8.
Black 9 captures White’s single stone at the left, but his stones are not yet
securely connected to the outside.
5093
10
B A
White 10 is an atari.
5094
11
Black has to capture at 11 instead, beginning a ko fight for the life of

White’s group.
5095
ko
It seems that White has to look for the first valid ko threat, but this is not
really true.
5096
13 12 A B
White 12 throws in at the left.
Black is unable to connect at A, or at B, and so has to capture at 13.
5097
14
White 14 recaptures the ko at the right.
5098
ko
This is a direct ko. Black has to look for the first valid (external) ko threat.
5099
e
e
○●○●○●○●○●○
5100
5101
Lessons learned
5102
Next page: Failure
5103
White to live.
5104
5105
1
> 1
> 3
> 4
> 1
> 3
> 4
> 1
> 3
> 1
> 1
2
> 2
> 3
> 5
> 3
> 3
> 6
3
> 3
○●○●○●○●○
> 3
●○●○●○●○●
> 3
> 5
> 5
> 8
6
> 6
> 7
> 7
Next page: Solution
5106
White 4 captures at the left.
Black’s just-played stone has only two liberties, and so not much scope for
decisive action.
5107
7 6 5 8
Black’s hane at 5 aims at reducing White’s potential eye space at the right.
White blocks at 6. Her eye space is too large now to prevent its
partitioning.
Black’s atari at 7 is a nice try, but White simply captures once more, by
playing at 8 at the right.
5108
10 9
Black 9 and White 10 are miai. White has got a living shape with two
eyes.
5109
e
e
5110
Lessons learned
5111
5112
?
?

Next page: Failure
5113
Black just played atari at the bottom left.
White to live.
5114
5115
1
> 1
> 3
> 4
> 1
> 3
> 4
> 1
> 3
> 1
> 1
2
> 2
> 3
> 5
> 3
> 3
> 6
3
> 3
> 3
○●○●○●○●○
> 3
●○●○●○●○●
> 5
> 5
> 8
6
> 6
> 7
> 7
Next page: Solution
5116
5117
A 7
5 6
Black’s jump to 5 aims at either connecting out at the right, or creating a

dead eye shape inside White’s formation.
Black might consider giving atari at A at the left, or playing hane at 6 at

the right, instead.
White descends to 6, stopping Black from connecting out.
5118
A
8 C
B
White 8 immobilises Black’s three stones inside her formation.
Black’s throw-in at A does not work here, because there is no black

troublemaker at B any more.
And – last but not least – White still has the connection at C left as an
emergency measure.
5119
e
e
5120
5121
7
6
Black has to connect at 7, otherwise White would successfully divide her

eye space by playing at that point.
5122
12
8
10 9 11
Black 8 immobilises Black’s three stones.
There is no chance for Black to destroy White’s second eye at the right.
Black 9 and White 10 are miai, as are Black 11 and White 12.
5123
e
e
5124
Black’s hane of 5 at the right comes too late now.
5125
7 6 8
White blocks with that atari at 6.
Black’s counter-atari at 7 is a nice try, hoping for a white mistake.
It is correct for White to capture at 8.
White must not connect her stone that is in atari instead.
5126
9
10
Black 9 is an atari at the left.
White connects solidly at 10, and is alive now.
5127
16 13
15 A 14
12 11
Black can force from the outside, by playing atari at 11 and at 13, but he
cannot create a dead eye shape inside White’s formation.
Black’s connection at 15 is frustrated by White’s atari at 16.
Black is unable to play at A, so White will live by playing at this point,

capturing four black stones in a row.
5128
e
e
5129
Lessons learned
5130
5131
? ?

Next page: Failure
5132
White just connected at the right.
5133
5134
1
> 1
> 3
> 4
> 1
> 3
> 4
> 1
> 3
> 1
> 1
2
> 2
> 3
> 5
> 3
> 3
> 6
3
>3
>3
>3
> 5
> 5
○●○●○●○●○
> 8
●○●○●○●○●
6
> 6
> 7
> 7
Next page: Solution
5135
A 9
Black’s turning move at 9 successfully stops White from partitioning her

White cannot play at A, because the atari of Black B will destroy her
potential second eye at the top.
5136
10
11 B
A
White cannot connect at A, because Black B will complete the dead five-
point eye shape inside her formation.
5137
12
13
Black 13 captures on the bottom, starting a ko fight for the life of White’s
group.
5138
ko
5139
●○●○●○●○●○●
5140
e
e
○●○●○●○●○●○
5141
14
Please note that White’s extension to 14 is no internal ko threat here.
5142
16
15
White 16 captures six black stones, but will be unable to get a living shape.
5143
19
18 17
Black 17 occupies the central point of White’s formation.
5144
Lessons learned
Think twice before solidly connecting a single stone that is in atari.
5145
Remember that with placing an own stone inside your formation you are
reducing your potential eye space (●) by one point.
5146
Do not leave a dead eye shape ( , △) behind, whose central point is still
unoccupied.
5147
5148
Black to kill.
5149
5150
1
> 1
> 3
> 4
> 1
> 3
> 4
> 1
> 3
> 1
> 1
2
○●○●○●○●○
> 2
●○●○●○●○●
> 3
> 5
> 3
> 3
> 6
3
> 3
> 3
> 3
> 5
> 5
> 8
6
> 6
> 7
> 7
Next page: Hints
5151
5152
5153
?
The ?-point in the top left is not yet a secure eye.
5154
2
White’s single stone at the top has two liberties only, and so is very
5155
!! !!
There are two holes (!!) in White’s encirclement.
5156
Black’s formation at the right is very strong, looking forward to a friendly
stone on any of the ◇-points at the first line.
5157
5158
At the right, there is a dead five-point eye shape (△), whose central point
5159
Another dead five-point eye shape (△) at the right, which is entirely
empty.
5160
Next page: Solution
5161
3 A
Black 3 attaches on the second line, at the centre of White’s formation.
Please note that Black threatens to continue at A, securely connecting his

just-played stone out to the right.
Black will succeed neither by giving atari in the top left, nor by jumping
5162
on the first line from the left, nor by jumping on the first line from the
right,
A 5 4
White descends to 4, blocking Black’s escape route to the right.
Black descends to 5, creating a bulky shape inside White’s formation.
Black might play at A instead, to the same effect.
5163
6
8
7 9
White connects at 6, hoping to get a second eye in the top left.
Playing 6 at 7 does not help either.
But Black connects his two stones to the left, by playing at 7 and 9. White
has only one eye, and so is dead.
5164
5165
White descends to 6, maximising her potential eye space on the bottom.
5166
7
Black’s atari at 7 occupies the miai point, destroying White’s hopes for
getting another eye.
White cannot stop Black from filling her large eye on the bottom with a
dead eye shape, so her group is dead.
5167
Next page: Failure
5168
Black just played atari in the top left.
5169
5170
1
> 1
> 3
> 4
> 1
> 3
> 4
> 1
> 3
> 1
> 1
2
> 2
○●○●○●○●○
> 3
●○●○●○●○●
> 5
> 3
> 3
> 6
3
> 3
> 3
> 3
> 5
> 5
> 8
6
> 6
> 7
> 7
Next page: Solution
5171
White 4 occupies the vital shape point in the centre of her formation that
5172
6 5
Black 5 jumps into White’s formation from the left.
Black should not jump in from the right instead.
White is forced to intercept by descending at 6.
5173
7
It is correct for Black to capture at 7 immediately, starting the ko for the

life of White’s group as early as possible.
Please note that Black’s move is also an atari, so White does not have any
time to partition her remaining exe space on the bottom, by descending to
A.
5174
ko
This ko fight is disadvantageous for her, because Black has several internal
ko threat up his sleeves.
But on the other hand, Black missed the opportunity to kill White’s group
unconditionally.
5175
●○●○●○●○●○●
5176
8
9 10
5177
13
11 12
Black’s placement at 11 is an internal ko threat.
White cannot let Black connect to the right, but has to intercept by
descending to 12.
5178
14
15 16
5179
19 18
17
Black 17 connects inside White’s formation and this is his second internal
ko threat. Black threatens to cut at 18, leaving a dead eye shape behind.
White must connect at 18, and can reach no more than a seki now.
5180
20
21 22
White 20 is her third valid ko threat.
5181
23
24
White ignores Black’s ko threat of 23 in order to connect at 24.
White has reached a seki, and so lives without territory.
White needed three valid ko threats more than Black to win this fight.
5182
n n
5183
Lessons learned

formation.
5184
stone that is caught in an atari.
5185
When attacking from the outside, do not leave a dead eye shape (△) inside
5186
have taken.
Next page: Failure
5187
Black just jumped into White’s formation from the right.
5188
5189
1
> 1
> 3
> 4
> 1
> 3
> 4
> 1
> 3
> 1
> 1
2
>2
> 3
○●○●○●○●○
> 5
●○●○●○●○●
> 3
> 3
> 6
3
> 3
> 3
> 3
> 5
> 5
> 8
6
> 6
> 7
> 7
Next page: Solution
5190
White 6 blocks at the right, stopping Black from connection out.
5191
8 7
Black’s second placement at 7 stops White from getting a living shape

quite easily, by occupying the same point.
White 8 blocks again, also maximising her potential eye space.
5192
9
Black captures at 9, starting the ko fight for the life of White’s group.
However, he has already played the marked exchange at the right, losing
an internal ko threat.
5193
ko
B
Black has an internal ko threat at A (White will answer by connecting at

B), so this ko fight is still advantageous for him.
5194
●○●○●○●○●○●
5195
10
11 12
White recaptures the ko with 12.
5196
15 14
13
Black 13 is an internal ko threat.
White connects at 14, stopping Black from playing at the same point,
resulting in a dead eye shape inside her formation.
5197
16
17 18
5198
19
20
White ignores Black’s ko threat of 19 in order to connect at 20.
White lives in seki.
5199
n n
5200
Lessons learned
!! !!
Consider carefully, which hole (!!) in your opponent’s formation to attack

first.
5201
? ?

Next page: Failure
5202
5203
5204
1
> 1
> 3
> 4
> 1
> 3
> 4
> 1
> 3
> 1
> 1
2
> 2
3>
> 5
○●○●○●○●○
> 3
●○●○●○●○●
> 3
> 6
3
> 3
> 3
> 3
> 5
> 5
> 8
6
> 6
> 7
> 7
Next page: Solution
5205
White 4 blocks at the left, stopping Black from connecting out.
5206
A
B 5 6
Black jumps to 5, losing an internal ko threat unnecessarily.
Please note that Black cannot successfully give atari at A instead. White
will answer by giving counter-atari at B on the bottom, getting a living
shape.
5207
7
5208
9 B
Black 9 captures in the top left, starting the ko fight for the life of White’s
group.
Black should not force at A beforehand. White will answer at B, and Black
will have lost another internal ko threat unnecessarily.
5209
ko
White must find the first valid ko threat.
5210
●○●○●○●○●○●
5211
10
11 12
5212
15 14
13
Black’s connection at 13 forces White do also connect at 14, and serves as

5213
16
17 18
5214
19
20
White ignores Black’s ko threat of 19 in order to connect at 20. Her group

lives in seki.
White needed two more valid ko threats than Black to win.
5215
n n
5216
Lessons learned
!!
Do not force your opponent to close a hole (!!) in their formation

unnecessarily.
5217
Do not leave dead eye shapes ( , △) behind, …
5218
Next page: Failure
5219
038 Problem (variation – failure IV)
Black just jumped into White’s formation from the right.
5220
5221
1
> 1
> 3
> 4
> 1
> 3
> 4
> 1
> 3
> 1
> 1
2
> 2
> 3
> 5
> 3
> 3
> 6
3
> 3
> 3
○●○●○●○●○
> 3
●○●○●○●○●
> 5
> 5
> 8
6
> 6
> 7
> 7
Next page: Solution
5222
038 Solution (variation – failure IV)
5223
6 5
Black jumps to 5, but is blocked by White’s descent to 6.
5224
7
White gives atari at 7, and Black occupies the miai point of 8.
5225
9
However, he has already played the marked exchange at the right, losing
5226
ko
B
Black has an internal ko threat at A (White will answer by connecting at

B), so this ko fight still is advantageous for him.
White will need two more valid ko threats than Black to win it (please
refer to the solution of the previous sub-variation for details).
5227
●○●○●○●○●○●
5228
n n
5229
Lessons learned
!!

unnecessarily.
5230
unoccupied.
Next page: Failure
5231
Black just attached inside White’s formation.
5232
5233
1
○●○●○●○●○
> 1
●○●○●○●○●
> 3
> 4
> 1
> 3
> 4
> 1
> 3
> 1
> 1
2
> 2
> 3
> 5
> 3
> 3
> 6
3
> 3
> 3
> 3
> 5
> 5
> 8
6
> 6
> 7
> 7
Next page: Solution
5234
5235
3
Black’s hane at 3 comes too late now. He cannot kill White’s group
unconditionally any more.
Black must not descend in the centre of White’s formation instead.
5236
5
4
Black extends to 5, aiming at destroying White’s eye shape.
White must not block by giving atari at the left instead.
5237
7 6
8
White 6 connects at the right, securing an eye below – for the time being.
Black extends once more to 7, forcing White to throw in at 8.
5238
9
Black 9 captures White’s just-played stone at the left.
5239
10
B A
Eventually, White connects at 10, giving atari to Black’s four stones

below.
5240
11
Black captures at 11 at the right, starting the ko fight for the life of White’s
group.
5241
ko
White must look for the first valid ko threat. But she has an internal one
available.
5242
13 12
White 12 throws in at 12, forcing Black to capture at 13.
5243
B A 14
White now recaptures the ko at the right.
5244
ko
5245
e
e
○●○●○●○●○●○
5246
5247
Lessons learned

5248
!! !!
When attacking inside, do not be surprised if your opponent closes one of

the holes (!!) in their formation, maximising their potential eye space.
Next page: Failure
5249
Black to kill.
5250
5251
1
>1
> 3
○●○●○●○●○
> 4
●○●○●○●○●
> 1
> 3
> 4
> 1
> 3
> 1
> 1
2
> 2
> 3
> 5
> 3
> 3
> 6
3
> 3
> 3
> 3
> 5
> 5
> 8
6
> 6
> 7
> 7
Next page: Solution
5252
B
A
5
Black 5 descends to the bottom, completely spoiling White’s eye shape.
White cannot continue by playing at A, aiming at dividing her potential

eye space, due to Black’s throw-in of B.
5253
6
7
8
White connects at 6 in the top left.
Black 7 is a double-atari, so White has to capture at 8.
5254
10
9
Black 9 forces White to connect at 10.
5255
11
12 13
Black 11 at the right stops White from establishing a seki, by occupying

the same point.
White’s connection at 12 is a nice try, but Black simply adds another stone
at 13, completing the dead eye shape inside White’s formation.
5256
5257
Lessons learned
5258
When playing at the outside, do not leave a dead eye shape behind, whose
5259
5260
have taken.
Next page: Failure
5261
Black just descended in the centre of White’s formation.
5262
5263
1
> 1
○●○●○●○●○
> 3
●○●○●○●○●
> 4
> 1
> 3
> 4
> 1
> 3
> 1
> 1
2
> 2
> 3
> 5
> 3
> 3
> 6
3
> 3
> 3
> 3
> 5
> 5
> 8
6
> 6
> 7
> 7
Next page: Solution
5264
White 4 descends at the left, maximising her potential eye space.
5265
6
5
Black’s turning move at 5 aims at creating a dead eye shape inside White’s
formation.
White 6 connects at the right, making her potential eye space as large as
possible.
5266
7
8
Black throws in at 7, and White has to capture at 8.
5267
9
10
After Black’s atari at 9 from the outside, White will connect at 10.
We have reached a position that is known as “mannen ko” (= “ten

thousand year ko”), and that – in a real game – will be usually transformed
into a seki.
< Excursus – Mannen ko (ten thousand year ko) >
5268
11
At the end of the game, Black will play at 11, creating a real seki.
5269
n
n n
5270
Lessons learned
!!
When attacking inside, do not be surprised if your opponent closes a

remaining hole (!!) in their formation, maximising their potential eye
space.
5271
5272
have taken.
Next page: Failure
5273
5274
5275
1
>1
> 3
> 4
○●○●○●○●○
> 1
●○●○●○●○●
> 3
> 4
> 1
> 3
> 1
> 1
2
> 2
> 3
> 5
> 3
> 3
> 6
3
> 3
> 3
> 3
> 5
> 5
> 8
6
> 6
> 7
> 7
Next page: Solution
5276
White 2 blocks at the right, giving atari to Black’s just-played stone.
5277
3
4
Black 3 occupies the central point inside White’s formation at the right.
White 4 descends at the left, maximising her potential eye space.
White must not descend in the centre of her formation instead.
5278
5
6
Black 5 gives double-atari at the right, so White has to capture at 6.
5279
7
8
Black’s atari at 7 from above forces White to give counter-atari at 8.
5280
9
Finally, Black captures at 9, starting the ko fight for the life of White’s
group.
5281
ko
5282
●○●○●○●○●○●
5283
e
e
5284
Black’s hane of 3 at the left comes too late now.
5285
4 B
A
White answers with the turning move of 4 at the left.
Blocking on the first line instead, by playing atari at A, would revert to the
main line of the correct solution, with Black killing White by the
placement of B.
5286
6
5 7
8
Black 5 plays at the central point at the right anyway, but he will be unable
to kill White’s group unconditionally.
White 6 connects in the top left, securing an eye in that area.
Black 7 is a double-atari, so White has to capture at 8.
5287
9
10
11
Black 9 cuts at the right, and then captures at 11, beginning the ko fight for
the life of White’s group.
5288
ko
5289
●○●○●○●○●○●
5290
e
e
5291
Lessons learned
!! !!

first.
5292
? ?

whether you might be able to do without (or even later), playing your
second move first.
Next page: Failure
5293
White just played a turning move inside her formation.
Black to kill.
5294
5295
1
>1
> 3
> 4
> 1
> 3
○●○●○●○●○
> 4
●○●○●○●○●
> 1
> 3
> 1
> 1
2
> 2
> 3
> 5
> 3
> 3
> 6
3
> 3
> 3
> 3
> 5
> 5
> 8
6
> 6
> 7
> 7
Next page: Solution
5296
Black’s hane at 5 at the left will revert to the main line of the correct
solution.
5297
6 7 8
White 6 blocks at the left, aiming at dividing her potential eye space
successfully.
Black 7 descends to the first line, stopping White from getting two eyes in
that area.
White 8 captures at the right.
5298
A
9
B
Black’s throw-in at 9 is the fatal blow.
White is hindered from connecting at A, due to Black B. Black’s earlier

played -stone perfectly does his job now, taking a decisive liberty from
White’s two stones.
5299
5300
Lessons learned
!!
It might become the source of your defeat.
5301
5302
2
2
5303
have taken.
Next page: Failure
5304
Black just played a clamp at the left.
White to live.
5305
5306
1
>1
> 3
> 4
> 1
> 3
> 4
○●○●○●○●○
> 1
●○●○●○●○●
> 3
> 1
> 1
2
> 2
> 3
> 5
> 3
> 3
> 6
3
> 3
> 3
> 3
> 5
> 5
> 8
6
> 6
> 7
> 7
Next page: Solution
5307
White 2 stops Black from connecting out along the bottom line.
5308
5
A 4 3
Black’s second hane of 3 at the right does not work here.
White simply blocks at 4.
Occupying the central point of White’s potential eye space at the right,
with playing at 5, suffers from the fact that Black’s initially played -
stone is misplaced now.
5309
6
White descends to 6, successfully dividing her eye space.
5310
e
e
5311
Black 3 gives atari at the left.
5312
5 6
4
Black connects at 5, but he is unable to stop White from dividing her eye
space.
White 6 immobilises Black’s three stones and secures life for her group.
5313
10
8 7 9
Black can force with 7 and 9, but White will get her second eye at the right
for sure.
5314
e
e
5315
Lessons learned
!!

unnecessarily.
5316
When attacking, do not leave a combination of two dead eye shapes ( ,
△) behind, …
5317
Next page: Failure
5318
Black just jumped into White’s formation.
White to live.
5319
5320
1
>1
> 3
> 4
> 1
> 3
> 4
> 1
> 3
○●○●○●○●○
> 1
●○●○●○●○●
> 1
2
> 2
> 3
> 5
> 3
> 3
> 6
3
> 3
> 3
> 3
> 5
> 5
> 8
6
> 6
> 7
> 7
Next page: Solution
5321
Black descends to 2, stopping Black from connecting out to the left.
5322
4 3
Black’s hane of 3 at the right is answered by White’s atari at 4.
5323
5 6
Black 5 gives counter-atari to the first line, but White is able to capture at
6.
Her eye space is large enough for two eyes now.
5324
10 8
9 11 7
Black continues by giving atari at 7 from the outside.
White’s counter-atari at 8 forces Black to connect at 9.
White 10 is another atari, immobilising Black’s three stones, and Black 11

captures at the right.
5325
12
White 12 captures three black stones, securing life for her group.
5326
14
13
5327
e
5328
Lessons learned
!!

unnecessarily.
5329
have taken.
Next page: Failure
5330
Black just jumped deep into White’s formation.
White to live.
5331
5332
1
>1
> 3
> 4
> 1
> 3
> 4
> 1
> 3
> 1
○●○●○●○●○
> 1
●○●○●○●○●
2
> 2
> 3
> 5
> 3
> 3
> 6
3
> 3
> 3
> 3
> 5
> 5
> 8
6
> 6
> 7
> 7
Next page: Solution
5333
White’s diagonal move at 2 stops Black from connecting his stone out.
5334
3
Black 3 gives atari in the top left.
5335
4
White 4 gives atari to Black’s stone below.
5336
7
5 6
Black 5 extends to the right, but is stopped by White’s diagonal move at 6.
Black captures at 7, destroying White’s potential eye at the left.
5337
8
White 8 occupies the miai point inside her formation, capturing two black
stones for a living shape.
5338
e
e
5339
Lessons learned
!!

unnecessarily.
5340
Problem 039
Black to kill.
5341
5342
○●○●○●○●○
1
●○●○●○●○●
> 1
2
> 2
> 3
3
> 3
> 4
> 5
4
> 4
> 4
> 6
7
> 7
Next page: Hints
5343
Hints 039
White’s potential eye space consists of a long winding line of empty points
(●; “snake”)).
5344
5345
Black’s strong △-stones on both sides are looking forward to a friendly
stone on the ◇-point at the first line.
5346
However, Black’s formation at the right is not yet solidly connected ( ).
5347
White’s maximum potential eye space might increase by one single point
at the right.
5348
2 2
3
White’s partial groups at the top have only two, respectively, three
liberties, and so are very vulnerable to an attack.
5349
4
4 4 4
4 4
All of White’s other groups have four liberties, several of which are
shared.
5350
The first dead three-point eye shape (△) at the top, whose central point is
still unoccupied.
5351
And the last possible one (△) on the bottom, again entirely empty.
Next page: Solution
5352
Solution 039
Black cuts at 1, simultaneously giving atari to White’s two stones above.
Black will not succeed by jumping on the first line from the left.
5353
2
5354
3
Black’s jump to 3 on the first line threatens to connect either to the left, or
to the right.
Black must not extend inside White’s position instead, sacrificing a second
stone.
5355
4
A B
White solidly connects at 4, threatening to capture Black’s single stone

inside her formation for a living shape.
White might consider descending to A at the right, or playing the diagonal

move of B at the left, instead.
5356
5
Black extends to 5, frustrating White’s plans.
White descends to 6, aiming at capturing Black’s single stone on the

bottom for her second eye.
5357
7 8
Black extends to 7, sacrificing two stones, instead of only one.
Black must not give atari to White’s six stones instead.
5358
10
9 A
Black’s throw-in at 9 is also a double-atari.
White cannot capture Black’s single stone, by playing at A, due to her

White 10 captures Black’s two stones instead.
5359
11
Black 11 captures on the bottom, reducing White’s group to only one eye.
5360
5361
White’s descent to 4 will result in a change in the order of moves.
5362
6
5
Black extends to 5, after which White 6 gives atari.
5363
7
Black 7 stops White from creating two eyes for her group quite easily, by
playing at the same point.
White 8 captures two black stones on the bottom.
5364
10
9 A
The following sequence is already known to us. White is unable to capture

at A (Black would recapture at 9 in a snap-back) and must capture at 10
instead.
5365
11
Black 11 is the final blow. White has only one eye, and so is dead.
5366
5367
White’s diagonal move at 4 blocks to the right.
5368
5
Black extends to 5, securely connecting to the left.
5369
B 7
6 A
White might consider descending to A instead, closing the borders of her

formation at the right.
Black extends to 7, sacrificing another stone for the death of White’s

group.
White is unable to descend to A, creating a second eye for her group, due
5370
to her shortage of liberties.
5371
9
Black kills by playing at 9.
5372
5373
White plays 6 at the right, hoping for another eye in that area.
5374
7
But Black 7 is a fatal atari.
5375
B
8
A
White cannot connect at A; Black would capture at B.
Connecting at B is also out of the question, due to Black A.
5376
9
Black 9 solidly connects at the left, capturing two of White’s stones, and
turning her eye at the top into a false one.
5377
5378
White’s diagonal move of 2 blocks Black’s further encroachment at the

right.
5379
3
Black must not capture White’s two stones at the top instead.
5380
4 5
White connects at 4, aiming at creating sufficient eye space on the bottom.
Black’s move at 5 frustrates White’s plans, successfully reducing her

group to only one eye.
5381
6
White 6 captures one of Black’s single stones.
5382
7
Black 7 captures White’s two stones at the top.
The size of White’s remaining potential eye space suffers from weaknesses
in her formation.
5383
8
9
11 10
White 8 and Black 9 are miai, as are White 10 and Black 11.
White cannot get more than only one eye, and so is dead.
5384
Next page: Failure
5385
Black just played atari.
White to live.
5386
5387
1
> 1
2
> 2
> 3
3
> 3
> 4
> 5
4
> 4
> 4
> 6
7
○●○●○●○●○
> 7
●○●○●○●○●
Next page: Solution
5388
White 8 captures Black’s two troublemakers, freeing her from her shortage
of liberties at the right.
5389
9 A
Of course, White will not capture at A now, being left with a false eye on
the bottom, after Black recaptures at 9.
5390
10
A B
White 10 gives atari at the right instead.
Black in unable to connect at A, due to White B. White will capture three

black stones for the life of her group.
5391
e
e
e
5392
Lessons learned
5393
Do not be surprised, if your opponent actually saves important stones that
are caught in an atari.
5394
5395
? ?

Next page: Failure
5396
Black just played another stone inside White’s formation.
White to live.
5397
5398
1
> 1
2
> 2
> 3
3
○●○●○●○●○
> 3
●○●○●○●○●
> 4
> 5
4
> 4
> 4
> 6
7
> 7
Next page: Solution
5399
White consolidates her potential eye space, by playing the diagonal move
of 4 at the left.
Please note that White occupied the vital point on the first line that Black
5400
White must not capture Black’s two stones instead.
6
5
Black’s atari at 5 will not help any longer.
Black might consider giving atari at 6 instead.
White is forced to capture at 6, successfully dividing her eye space.
5401
e
5402
Black gives atari at 5, aiming at creating a dead eye shape inside White’s
formation.
5403
6
5404
7
A
B 8
White is the owner of the point of A, so B is a real eye.
5405
e
5406
Lessons learned
5407
!!

unnecessarily.
5408
5409
have taken.
Next page: Failure
5410
White just captured two black stones.
5411
5412
1
> 1
2
>
> 3
3
> 3
○●○●○●○●○
> 4
●○●○●○●○●
> 5
4
> 4
> 4
> 6
7
> 7
Next page: Solution
5413
Black jumps to 5, occupying the point that White should have taken
beforehand.
5414
B
A 6
White defends her potential eye space on the bottom, by playing the
diagonal move of 6.
The points of A and of B are miai now.
5415
9 8
7
But Black 7 gives atari to White’s single stone at the first line.
White 8 gives counter-atari, after which Black captures at 9, starting a ko

fight for the life of White’s group.
5416
ko
This is a direct ko, White has to look for the first valid ko threat.
5417
●○●○●○●○●○●
5418
e
5419
Lessons learned
Think twice before capturing some opponent stones inside your formation.
5420
!!
!! !!
5421
have taken.
Next page: Failure
5422
Black just captured two white stones.
White to live.
5423
5424
1
> 1
2
> 2
○●○●○●○●○
> 3
●○●○●○●○●
3
> 3
> 4
> 5
4 > 4
> 4
> 6
7
> 7
Next page: Solution
5425
White plays at 4, giving atari to Black’s single stone at the right.
5426
5
Black 5 pushes from above, also giving counter-atari to White’s four

stones.
5427
7
8
9 10
Black cannot stop White’s group from getting two eyes.
5428
e
e
5429
Lessons learned
5430
Do not force your opponent to divide their remaining potential eye space
(●).
5431
Next page: Failure
5432
Black just jumped on the first line.
White to live.
5433
5434
1
○●○●○●○●○
> 1
●○●○●○●○●
2
> 2
> 3
3
> 3
> 4
> 5
4
> 4
> 4
> 6
7
> 7
Next page: Solution
5435
White 2 solidly connects at the top, occupying the vital point of the
5436
4
3
Black 3 pushes upward, but White 4 connects solidly again, achieving a

living shape for her group.
5437
6
5
Black 5 and White 6 are miai, so Black cannot stop White from getting
two eyes.
5438
e
e
5439
Lessons learned
5440
(●).
5441
5442
have taken.
5443
Problem 040
Black to kill.
5444
5445
○●○●○●○●○
1
●○●○●○●○●
> 1
> 3
> 1
> 1
2
> 2
> 4
> 2
> 4
> 2
> 2
5
> 5
6
> 6
Next page: Hints
5446
Hints 040
White’s potential eye space (●) is quite bulky on the bottom and elongated
at the top.
5447
5448
2 2
3
3
2
White’s partial groups at the top and at the right have only three,
respectively two, liberties, and so are very vulnerable to an attack.
5449
On the bottom, there is a line of false eyes ( , ✕) visible.
5450
Another line of false eyes ( , ✕) can be found at the top right.
5451
At the top, there is a dead three-point eye shape (△) visible, whose central
5452
A dead five-point eye shape (△) on the bottom that is also entirely empty.
5453
Another option for a dead five-point eye shape.
5454
Next page: Solution
5455
Solution 040
Black 1 throws in at the right.

nor by playing hane at the left, nor by giving atari at the right.
5456
D
2
C B A
White solidly connects at 2, stopping Black from giving double-atari at the

right, by occupying the same point.
White might consider capturing at A at the right, or playing the diagonal

move of B in the centre, or descending to C at the left, or solidly
connecting at D at the top, instead.
5457
3 4
5
Black 3 cuts in the top left, threatening to capture White’s two stones
above.
Black 5 extends, aiming at sacrificing two stones, instead of only one.
Black must not extend on the bottom line instead.
5458
A
6
White 6 captures Black’s single stone on the bottom,
White might consider playing at A instead, capturing Black’s two stones.
5459
7 B
8 A 9
Black further extends to 7, stopping White from easily dividing her

Thereafter, White 8 and Black 9 are miai.
Here, White can neither approach Black’s stones inside her formation at A
from the left, nor at B from the right, so all of her stones are dead.
5460
5461
5462
7
Black extends to 7, destroying White’s potential eye space on the bottom.
5463
A
9 8
White 8 and Black 9 are miai. White is dead.
Further capturing at A will not benefit White, but result in only a false eye.
5464
5465
White 2 immediately captures Black’s single stone at the first line.
To be continued …
5466
5467
White plays the diagonal move of 2, in an attempt to successfully divide

her potential eye space.
To be continued …
5468
5469
White 2 descends at the left, aiming at maximising her potential eye space
in that area.
To be continued …
5470
5471
Variation for White 2 (IV)
White 2 solidly connects at the top.
To be continued …
5472
Next page: Failure
5473
Black just extended on the first line.
White to live.
5474
5475
1
> 1
> 3
> 1
> 1
2
> 2
> 4
> 2
> 4
> 2
> 2
5
○●○●○●○●○
> 5
●○●○●○●○●
6
> 6
Next page: Solution
5476
White 6 stops Black’s further encroachment.
5477
7
8
White simply captures two black stones.
5478
10 9
Black 9 and White 10 are miai. White has got a living shape.
5479
e
e
5480
Lessons learned
(●).
5481
2 2
5482
Remember that capturing two stones on the first line threatens to create an
eye thereafter.
5483
? ?

5484
Black to kill.
5485
5486
1
> 1
> 3
> 1
> 1
2
○●○●○●○●○
> 2
●○●○●○●○●
> 4
> 2
> 4
> 2
> 2
5
> 5
6
> 6
Next page: Hints
5487
White’s potential eye space (●) consists of a long winding line of points,
with a tiny bulky element on the bottom.
5488
5489
2 2
2
3
2 2
respectively two, liberties, several of which are shared, and so are very
5490
On the bottom, there is a dead four-point eye shape (△) visible, whose
5491
At the right, there is a line of false eyes ( , ✕) available.
Next page: Solution
5492
Black 3 occupies the central point inside White’s formation on the second
line.
5493
4 A
White 4 solidly connects above.
5494
6 5
A
Black 5 throws in at the top right.
Connecting at A instead will not an effect on the status of White’s group.

Black captures at 6, and White still has only one eye on the bottom.
5495
7
Black 7 turns White’s potential eye above into a false one.
5496
8 9
On the lower edge, White 8 and Black 9 are miai, so there is only one eye
for White’s group.
5497
5498
White 4 solidly connects at the right.
5499
5 6
7
Black 5 gives atari to White’s two stones above, forcing White to connect
at 6.
Black 7 connects inside White’s formation, creating a dead three-point eye

shape.
5500
10
9 8
Capturing three black stones, by playing at 10, does not help White.
5501
11
Black 11 is fatal.
5502
5503
Black to kill.
5504
5505
1
> 1
> 3
> 1
> 1
2
>2
> 4
○●○●○●○●○
> 2
●○●○●○●○●
> 4
> 2
> 2
5
> 5
6
> 6
Next page: Hints
5506
5507
5508
2 2
3
2
3
White’s partial groups at the top, at the right have and on the bottom have
only three, respectively two, liberties, several of which are shared, and so
are very vulnerable to an attack.
5509
1
Black’s cutting stone at the right has only one liberty, and so is in
5510
1
The same applies for White’s single stone at the bottom right.
5511
On the bottom, there is a line of false eyes ( ) visible.
5512
5513
5514
Another dead eye shape that is entirely empty.
5515
And here follows the third option of such a dead eye shape inside White’s
formation.
5516
Next page: Solution
5517
Black 3 is a hane at the left.
5518
A
White 4 captures Black’s single stone at the right, maximising her

5519
5
Black 5 occupies the central point inside White’s formation on the second
line.
5520
6
7
White tries her best by connecting at 6, but Black extends to 7, reducing

White’s group to only one eye.
5521
5522
White immediately connects at 4 in the top right.
5523
5
Black 5 occupies the central point of a dead three-point eye shape.
5524
6
7
Capturing Black’s two stones on the first line is fruitless, because it will
result in only a false eye.
5525
5526
Problem 040 (variation III)
Black to kill.
5527
5528
1
> 1
> 3
> 1
> 1
2
>2
> 4
> 2
> 4
○●○●○●○●○
> 2
●○●○●○●○●
> 2
5
> 5
6
> 6
Next page: Hints
5529
Hints 040 (variation III)
White’s potential eye space (●) is quite bulky on the bottom and elongated
at the top.
5530
5531
2 2
2
respectively two, liberties, and so are very vulnerable to an attack.
5532
1
5533
1
5534
5535
5536
5537
A dead four-point eye shape (△) near the bottom that is also entirely
empty.
5538
Another option for a dead three-point eye shape (△).
5539
Next page: Solution
5540
Solution 040 (variation III)
Black jumps to 3, stopping White from dividing her potential eye space, by
5541
4
5542
5
Black 5 extends upwards, occupying the central point inside White’s

formation on the second line.
5543
A 6
7
Sooner or later, White will have to connect at A, so there is no seki.

White’s group is dead with only one large eye.
5544
5545
Problem 040 (variation IV)
Black to kill.
5546
5547
1
> 1
> 3
> 1
> 1
2
>
> 4
> 2
> 4
> 2
○●○●○●○●○
> 2
●○●○●○●○●
5
> 5
6
> 6
Next page: Hints
5548
Hints 040 (variation IV)
5549
5550
2
White’s partial groups at the right have only two liberties, and so are very
5551
1
5552
1
5553
5554
5555
There is a dead three-point eye shape (△) visible, whose central point is
still unoccupied.
5556
Another dead three-point eye shape (△) that is entirely empty.
5557
Next page: Solution
5558
Solution 040 (variation IV)
B
3
A
Black 3 occupies the central point of White’s bottom area, making miai of
A and B.
5559
4
None of the above-mentioned options will work for White, so she tries the
hane at 4.
5560
5
But Black still gives double-atari at 5, turning White’s potential eye at the
top into a false one.
White 6 captures on the bottom line.
5561
7
Black 7 destroys White’s potential eye at the left, so White is dead with
only one eye.
5562
Next page: Failure
5563
Black just attached in the centre of White’s formation.
White to live.
5564
5565
1
○●○●○●○●○
> 1
●○●○●○●○●
> 3
> 1
> 1
2
> 2
> 4
> 2
> 4
> 2
> 2
5
> 5
6
> 6
Next page: Solution
5566
White 2 solidly connects at the right, erasing the decisive weakness of her
formation.
5567
3 4
5
6 A
Black’s cut at 3 comes too late now.
Black might consider throwing in at A instead.
White 4 connects solidly, saving her two stones above.
Connecting at 5 is an emergency measure, but Black is stopped by White’s

atari at 6.
5568
8
7
Black’s hane of 7 at the left is also an atari, so White has to capture at 8.
5569
10
Thereafter, Black 9 and White 10 are miai, so White has got a living
shape.
5570
e
5571
Black 3 throws in at the bottom right.
5572
4
White’s hane at 4 prepares for the division of her potential eye space.
5573
5 6
7
8
Black’s atari at 5 comes too late now.
White connects at 6 and finally captures three black stones, by playing at

8.
5574
10
Black 9 and White 10 are miai, so White is alive with two eyes.
5575
e
5576
Lessons learned
5577
Consider carefully whether playing inside your opponent’s formation
includes an immediate second threat.
Otherwise, your opponent might be able to cover (at least one of) their
decisive weakness(es).
Next page: Failure
5578
White to live.
5579
5580
1
>1
> 3
○●○●○●○●○
> 1
●○●○●○●○●
> 1
2
> 2
> 4
> 2
> 4
> 2
> 2
5
> 5
6
> 6
Next page: Solution
5581
White 2 occupies the vital point at the second line inside her formation.
5582
4
3
Black forces with the atari at 3, but White simply connects above at 4,
securing an eye at the top.
5583
5 6 8 7
Black’s further efforts, with 5 at the left and 7 at the right, end in vain.
5584
e
e
5585
Lessons learned
5586
Do not allow your opponent to divide their potential eye space (●).
5587
behind, …
5588
Next page: Failure
5589
White to live.
5590
5591
1
>1
> 3
> 1
○●○●○●○●○
> 1
●○●○●○●○●
2
> 2
> 4
> 2
> 4
> 2
> 2
5
> 5
6
> 6
Next page: Solution
5592
White 2 occupies the vital point at the second line inside her formation,
aiming at dividing her potential eye space.
5593
4 3
Black captures at 3, but White connects at 4, securing an eye below.
5594
7 8 6 5
Black has no option left for destroying White’s second eye on the bottom,
so White is alive.
5595
e
5596
Lessons learned
Especially if you are only threatening an unimportant stone that is located

on the outskirts of your opponent’s formation.
5597
5598
When attacking from the outside, do not allow your opponent to divide
their potential eye space (●).
5599
Problem 041
White to live.
5600
5601
○●○●○●○●○
1
●○●○●○●○●
> 1
> 2
> 1
> 7
2
> 2
> 3
> 3
> 3
> 4
> 6
> 4
3
> 3
> 3
> 3
> 4
4
> 4
> 4
5
> 5
6
> 6
Next page: Hints
5602
Hints 041
White’s potential eye space is already divided into two sections, a tiny one
at the top, and a bulky one on the bottom that already contains some black
stones.
5603
e
5604
? ? ?
? ? ? ?
? ? ? ?
White will have to create her second eye in the large ?-area on the bottom.
5605
5606
Black’s formation at the left ( ) is strong, significantly weakening
5607
Black’s formation at the right ( ) is also very strong, looking forward to a
friendly stone on any of the ◇-points on the first line.
5608
3
3
White’s pair of stones at the right has only three liberties, and so is very
5609
Black’s three-stone group inside White’s formation is currently separated
from its allies at the right and at the left.
5610
4 4
4
Black’s three-stone group has four liberties, and so is quite resilient to an

attack.
5611
White will have to capture Black’s three-stone group; there is no chance to
get a second eye on the bottom without doing so.
5612
Next page: Solution
5613
Solution 041
White 1 solidly connects at the left.
This move does not only stop Black from connecting out to the left, by
occupying the same point, but also takes an important liberty of Black’s
three stones inside her formation.
5614
White will succeed neither by connecting solidly at the right, nor by
attaching in the centre of Black’s three stones.
2 A
Black plays the diagonal move at 2, aiming at connecting to the right.
To be continued …
Black might consider playing hane at A instead.
5615
5616
Black 2 is a hane at the right.
To be continued …
5617
5618
White to live.
5619
5620
1
> 1
> 2
> 1
> 7
2
> 2
> 3
> 3
> 3
> 4
> 6
> 4
○●○●○●○●○
3
●○●○●○●○●
> 3
> 3
> 3
> 4
4
> 4
> 4
5
> 5
6
> 6
Next page: Hints
5621
stones.
5622
e
5623
? ? ?
? ? ?
? ? ? ?
5624
5625
3
3
White’s pair of stones at the right has only three liberties, and so is very
5626
3 3
3
3
Black’s cut-off groups inside White’s formation have only three liberties,
several of which are shared, and so are quite vulnerable to an attack.
5627
Black’s formation at the right ( ) is strong, significantly weakening
5628
However, connecting stones out that are arranged on a zigzag line ( , ✕)
might fail, due to a shortage of liberties.
5629
White will have to capture Black’s three-stone group; there is no change to
Next page: Solution
5630
White descends to 3 at the left, not trying too hard at the right.

playing a turning move at the right, nor by playing a diagonal move at the
right.
5631
B
A 4
Black plays the hane of 4, in an attempt to connect his stones out to the
right.
Black might consider connecting at A, or attaching at B, instead.
5632
5
Again, White does not play at the right, but at the left. She cuts at 5, again
taking a decisive liberty of Black’s three stones above.
White must not connect her two stones at the right instead.
5633
7 8
6
Black tries his best by connecting at 6 on the bottom line.
Black might consider connecting at 7 instead.
White 7 throws in, destroying Black’s shape.
5634
9
A
B
Eventually, White gives atari at 9.
Black is unable to connect at A, due to Black B.
Capturing Black’s three stones will provide White with her second eye.
5635
e
5636
Black 6 solidly connects at the left.
However, there are enough cutting points left to become exploited by

White successfully.
5637
8
7
If Black captures at 8, …
5638
9
A B
… White gives atari at 9.
White will capture Black’s six stones for her second eye.
5639
e
5640
Black 4 solidly connects at the left, aiming at getting a better shape for
connecting to the right.
5641
5
But White plays the diagonal move of 5, frustrating Black’s plans.
5642
A
6
7 B
White connects at 7, and Black is unable to continue at A.
If Black plays 6 at A instead, White must be on her guard, and give atari
immediately, by playing at 6.
If White mistakenly plays at 7, Black B will occupy a decisive liberty of

her four stones, resulting in a temporary seki on the bottom. But White’s
5643
group at left has only one eye, so Black will resolve this temporary seki by
capturing White’s large group.
5644
Black 4 attaches at the right.
5645
5
White simply connects at 5, saving her two stones at the right.
5646
A
7 B 6 C
Black 6 and White 7 are miai, so White will get her second eye by
capturing Black’s three stones.
Black would need three moves in a row (A, B and C) to lead his three
stones successfully into the open.
5647
e
Next page: Failure
5648
Black to kill.
5649
5650
1
> 1
> 2
> 1
> 7
2
> 2
> 3
> 3
> 3
> 4
> 6
> 4
> 3
> 3
> 3
> 4
3
4
> 4
> 4
5
○●○●○●○●○
> 5
●○●○●○●○●
6
> 6
Next page: Solution
5651
Black connects at 6, occupying the vital shape point that White should
5652
8
7
White’s throw in at 7 does not work any longer.
Black captures at 8, and his stones are securely connected to the right.
White has only one eye, and so is dead.
5653
5654
Lessons learned
Do not unnecessarily connects some of your stones that are not in

5655
have taken.
Next page: Failure
5656
Black to kill.
5657
5658
1
> 1
> 2
> 1
> 7
2
> 2
> 3
> 3
> 3
> 4
> 6
> 4
3
○●○●○●○●○
> 3
●○●○●○●○●
> 3
> 3
> 4
4
> 4
> 4
5
> 5
6
> 6
Next page: Solution
5659
Black’s hane 4 at the right will secure the connection of his stones on the
bottom.
5660
5
5661
B C
6 A
Black 6 solidly connects at the left; White cannot destroy Black’s

connection to the right.
Black might play at A to the same effect.
If White then gives atari at B, aiming at spoiling Black’s shape, Black

must not answer by capturing at C (White’s following atari at 6 will reveal
his shortage of liberties). Again, Black has to connect at 6 instead.
5662
5663
Lessons learned
Do not unnecessarily connects some of your stones that are not in

5664
?

Next page: Failure
5665
White just played a turning move at the right.
Black to kill.
5666
5667
1
> 1
> 2
> 1
> 7
2
> 2
> 3
> 3
> 3
> 4
> 6
> 4
3
> 3
○●○●○●○●○
> 3
●○●○●○●○●
> 3
> 4
4
> 4
> 4
5
> 5
6
> 6
Next page: Solution
5668
A
B
4
Black extends to 4, taking a decisive liberty from White’s three stones

above.
Black must not cut at A instead, because White B will become an atari.
5669
6
B
7 A 5 8
White is one step behind in this partial semeai.
She can neither approach at A, nor at B, but has to descend to 7. Black 8

gives atari to White’s 4 stones, securely capturing them.
5670
5671
Lessons learned
5672
4
4 4
Playing a descent to the first line will not serve to increase the liberty
count of your group.
5673
!! !!
Next page: Failure
5674
Black to kill.
5675
5676
1
> 1
> 2
> 1
> 7
2
> 2
> 3
> 3
> 3
> 4
> 6
> 4
3
> 3
> 3
○●○●○●○●○
> 3
●○●○●○●○●
> 4
4
> 4
> 4
5
> 5
6
> 6
Next page: Solution
5677
4
A
Black cuts at 4.
5678
A 5
B
Her group has as many liberties as Black’s cut-off group inside her
formation. But White can neither approach at A, nor at B.
5679
7 8 6
Both sides have to play a descent, Black 6 at the right, White 7 at the left.
Thereafter, Black gives atari at 8 and is one step faster, winning this partial
semeai on the bottom.
White’s large group has only one eye, and so is dead.
5680
5681
5682
5
5683
7 8
White’s descent to 7 is answered by Black 8, so his connection is safe.
5684
5685
Lessons learned
5686
White to live.
5687
5688
1
> 1
> 2
> 1
> 7
2
○●○●○●○●○
> 2
●○●○●○●○●
> 3
> 3
> 3
> 4
> 6
> 4
3
> 3
> 3
> 3
> 4
4
> 4
> 4
5
> 5
6
> 6
Next page: Hints
5689
stones.
5690
e
5691
? ? ?
? ?
? ? ?
5692
5693
Black’s formation at the right ( ) is also very strong, looking forward to a
friendly stone on any of the ◇-points on the first line.
5694
2
2
White’s pair of stones at the right has only two liberties, and so is in
5695
3 3
3
Black’s three-stone group has only three liberties, and so is quite

5696
5697
White will have to capture Black’s three-stone group; there is no change to
Next page: Solution
5698
A 3
White’s placement at 3 makes sure that Black’s three stones cannot escape
her encirclement.
White might consider playing hane at A at the left instead.
However, White will succeed neither by playing a turning move at the
5699
right, nor by giving atari to the bottom right.
4
A
Black tries the cut at 4.
Black might consider attaching at A instead.
5700
A 5
7 B 6
White plays the turning move of 5, and Black can neither approach at A,
nor at B.
Black has to connect at 6, as an approach-move, but White 7 gives atari to

his four stones, securing her second eye.
5701
e
5702
Black’s attachment of 4 is also an atari.
5703
5
White connects at 5, and Black is massively handicapped by his shortage

of liberties.
5704
A
7 6 B
Black can connect at 6, saving one of his stones.
But after White’s atari at 7, Black is unable to connect at A, due to White

B.
5705
e
5706
White 3 is a hane at the left, also spoiling Black’s shape.
5707
5 4
Black tries the atari at 4, which White answers by connecting at 5.
5708
7 8
6
Black tries his best with solidly connecting at 7, but White’s throw-in at 7
is decisive.
5709
9
A
B
White 9 gives atari to Black’s three stones, and Black is unable to connect
at A, due to White B.
5710
e
Next page: Failure
5711
White just played a turning move at the right.
5712
5713
1
> 1
> 2
> 1
> 7
2
>2
> 3
○●○●○●○●○
> 3
●○●○●○●○●
> 3
> 4
> 6
> 4
3
> 3
> 3
> 3
> 4
4
> 4
> 4
5
> 5
6
> 6
Next page: Solution
5714
Black’s diagonal move of 4 occupies the vital point on the first line that
5715
5
White intercepts at 5.
5716
6
Black’s cut at 6 is also an atari, so White has to capture at 7.
5717
9 A 8
Black 8 is an atari at the right.
White’s descent to 9 prepares for the double-atari at A.
5718
10
But it’s Black’s turn, and so he captures at 10, starting a ko fight for the
life of White’s group.
5719
ko
5720
●○●○●○●○●○●
5721
e
5722
Lessons learned
5723
3
3 3
Descending to the first line might not increase the liberty count of your
group.
5724
have taken.
Next page: Failure
5725
Black to kill.
5726
5727
1
> 1
> 2
> 1
> 7
2
>2
> 3
> 3
○●○●○●○●○
> 3
●○●○●○●○●
> 4
> 6
> 4
3
> 3
> 3
> 3
> 4
4
> 4
> 4
5
> 5
6
> 6
Next page: Solution
5728
Black’s cut at 4 is also a double-atari.
Black must not cut at the point above instead.
5729
5
White is forced to connect at 5, so Black can capture at 6.
5730
7 8
White’s descent to 7 is fruitless, due to Black’s solid connection at 8.
5731
5732
Lessons learned
5733
have.
5734
2
2
2
Next page: Failure
5735
Black just cut at the right.
5736
5737
1
> 1
> 2
> 1
> 7
2
>2
> 3
> 3
> 3
○●○●○●○●○
> 4
●○●○●○●○●
> 6
> 4
3
> 3
> 3
> 3
> 4
4
> 4
> 4
5
> 5
6
> 6
Next page: Solution
5738
White is forced to connect at 5, occupying the point that Black should have
taken beforehand.
5739
A 6 7
Black 6 gives immediately give atari to White’s four stones at the right.
Black might consider descending to A instead, but this will not make a
difference.
5740
9 8
Black 8 gives atari from the outside, and White descends to 9.
5741
10
5742
ko
5743
●○●○●○●○●○●
5744
e
5745
5746
A 7
White must not hastily play at A, occupying a liberty of Black’s group.

Black will connect at 7, gaining a temporary seki on the bottom.
But White’s large group has only one eye, so all of her stones are dead.
5747
9 8
Black 8 is the “usual” atari at the right, followed by White’s descent to 9 at

the left.
5748
10
Black captures at 10, beginning the ko fight for the life of White’s group.
5749
ko
5750
There is a temporary seki in the bottom right, but White’s large group has
only one eye. Black will capture White’s group to also resolve this
temporary seki.
●○●○●○●○●○●
5751
e
5752
Lessons learned
5753
5754
3 3 3
3
5755
ko
5756
have taken.
Next page: Failure
5757
5758
5759
1
○●○●○●○●○
> 1
●○●○●○●○●
> 2
> 1
> 7
2
> 2
> 3
> 3
> 3
> 4
> 6
> 4
3
> 3
> 3
> 3
> 4
4
> 4
> 4
5
> 5
6
> 6
Next page: Solution
5760
A
2
B
Black 2 extends to the left, threatening to cut at A.
Black might consider playing the diagonal move of B instead.
5761
3
4 A
White 3 occupies a liberty of Black’s four stones, aiming at continuing

with a move at A, creating her second eye on the bottom.
But her plans are frustrated by Black’s atari at 4.
5762
6
5
5763
8
A
B 7
White 7 connects at the right, saving her single stone on the first line.
Black cannot connect at A, due to White B, and so cuts at 8 at the left,

simultaneously giving atari to White’s single stone below.
5764
9
A
White captures at 9, starting the ko fight for the life of her group.
Black cannot connect at A, due to White’s troublemaker .
5765
ko
A B
This ko is advantageous for White, because she has an internal ko threat up

her sleeves.
Descending to A is fruitless for Black. White captures at B, and it still

remains a ko.
5766
e
○●○●○●○●○●○
5767
10
11
12
Black 10 is the first valid ko threat that is answered by White 11.
5768
15
14 13
White descends to 13. This internal ko threat stops Black from connecting
the ko at 15.
Black has to descend to 14 instead, immobilising White’s two stones at the

left.
5769
16
Black 16 captures White’s two stones at the left.
5770
A
17
White cannot connect at A, but has to capture at 17.
The ko simply has changed place now.
5771
18
19
20
5772
21
22
Black ignores White’s ko threat of 21 in order to connect at 22.
Black needed two more valid ko threats than White to win this fight, not
only one.
5773
5774
Black plays the diagonal move of 2, threatening to connect to the right.
5775
3
White’s diagonal move at 3 stops Black from connecting.
5776
A
4
Black’s turning move at 4 threatens to cut at A, and saves his four stones.
5777
5 6
White throws in at 5, and Black has to capture at 6.
5778
8
9
7
After Black’s cut at 8, White captures at 9, and we have the same ko fight
as seen just before.
5779
ko
A
This ko fight is advantageous for White who has an internal ko threat at A.

5780
e
○●○●○●○●○●○
5781
5782
Lessons learned
5783
have taken.
Next page: Failure
5784
White just took a liberty of Black’s three stones.
5785
5786
1
>1
> 2
○●○●○●○●○
> 1
●○●○●○●○●
> 7
2
> 2
> 3
> 3
> 3
> 4
> 6
> 4
3
> 3
> 3
> 3
> 4
4
> 4
> 4
5
> 5
6
> 6
Next page: Solution
5787
5788
3
White is forced to connect at 3, giving counter-atari.
Capturing at 4 is mandatory for Black.
5789
5
White descends to 5, stopping Black from connecting out to the right.
5790
8
6 A
7
Black 6 turn to the left, aiming at saving his stones.
White must not connect at the left instead.
Black cannot connect at A, so he cuts at 8.
5791
9
A
White 9 captures, giving atari to Black’s single stones below.
Black is unable to connect at A, and so has to accept a ko fight for the life
of White’s group.
5792
ko
A
This ko fight is advantageous for White who has an internal ko threat at A.

5793
Lessons learned
5794
!!
5795
3 3
3 2
Carefully consider the liberty count of the groups, which are engaged in a
partial semeai.
Next page: Failure
5796
5797
5798
1
>1
> 2
> 1
○●○●○●○●○
> 7
●○●○●○●○●
2
> 2
> 3
> 3
> 3
> 4
> 6
> 4
3
> 3
> 3
> 3
> 4
4
> 4
> 4
5
> 5
6
> 6
Next page: Solution
5799
Black connects under by playing at 8.
5800
11
10 9
Black 10 connects at the left, so White captures at 11.
5801
ko
White has created a ko shape, but Black will not start the ko fight now.
5802
12 13
Black connects his four stones, by playing at 12.
White is forced to capture at 13, starting a ko fight for the life of her group.
5803
ko
Black has to look for the first ko threat.
However, this is a direct ko, so Black can win this fight by ignoring only
one of White’s ko threats.
5804
e
○●○●○●○●○●○
5805
5806
Lessons learned

5807
Problem 042
5808
5809
○●○●○●○●○
1
●○●○●○●○●
> 1
> 1
> 5
> 5
> 1
> 2
> 1
> 2
> 2
> 3
> 4
> 4
> 3
> 3
> 3
> 1
> 5
2
> 2
> 3
> 3
3
> 3
> 3
> 3
4
> 4
> 5
> 5
> 6
5
> 5
5810
> 6
> 7
> 6
> 5
> 7
> 5
> 5
> 7
9
> 9
> 9
> 9
Next page: Hints
5811
Hints 042
Black’s potential eye space (●) is quite bulky at the left and elongated at
the right.
5812
5813
!!
!! !!
There are three holes (!!) in Black’s encirclement, one in each direction.
5814
stone on any of the ◇-points on the first line.
5815
3 3
3
3
Black’s partial groups at the left have only three liberties, several of which
5816
White’s formation at the right ( ) is also strong, looking forward to a
friendly stone on the ◇-point.
5817
At the right, there is a line of false eyes (✕) visible.
However, White will have to remember that is needs permanent stones on

both ends of such a line of false eyes to make it work.
5818
At the left, there is a dead five-point eye shape (△) available, whose
5819
At the right, there is a dead three-point eye shape (△) that is also entirely
empty.
5820
Next page: Solution
5821
Solution 042
Black’s position at the left is more open and weaker than his position at the
right, so White starts by playing hane at 1.
White will succeed neither by pushing from above, nor by attaching in the
centre of Black’s formation, nor by jumping on the first line from the right,
5822
nor by jumping on the first line from the left, nor by jumping deep into
Black’s formation.
Black is forced to answer with the atari at 2, maximising his remaining

To be continued …
Black must not solidly connect one point above instead.
5823
5824
5825
1
> 1
> 1
> 5
> 5
> 1
> 2
> 1
> 2
> 2
> 3
> 4
> 4
> 3
> 3
> 3
> 1
> 5
2
> 2
> 3
> 3
○●○●○●○●○
3
●○●○●○●○●
> 3
> 3
> 3
4
> 4
> 5
> 5
> 6
5
> 5
5826
> 6
> 7
> 6
> 5
> 7
> 5
> 5
> 7
9
> 9
> 9
> 9
Next page: Hints
5827
Black’s potential eye space (●) has some bulky tendencies at the left and is
elongated at the right.
5828
5829
!!
!!
There are two holes (!!) in Black’s encirclement, one at the top and another
one at the right.
5830
White’s formation at the right ( ) is strong, looking forward to a friendly
stone on the ◇-point.
5831
3 3
3
2
2
Black’s partial groups at the left have only three, respectively two,
liberties, several of which are shared, and so are very vulnerable to an
attack.
5832
1
White’s pivotal stone on the first line has only one liberty, and so is in
5833
However, capturing this stone would result in only a false eye ( ) for
Black.
5834
At the right, there is another line of false eyes (✕) visible.

5835
At the left, there is a dead four-point eye shape (△) available, whose
5836
empty.
5837
Next page: Solution
5838
White 3 gives atari from the outside, also taking a liberty of Black’s three
stones at the top.
To be continued …
White will succeed neither by pushing from above, nor by attaching in the
5839
centre of Black’s formation, nor by jumping on the first line from the right.
5840
5841
1
> 1
> 1
> 5
> 5
> 1
> 2
> 1
> 2
> 2
> 3
> 4
> 4
> 3
> 3
> 3
> 1
> 5
2
> 2
> 3
> 3
3
> 3
> 3
> 3
○●○●○●○●○
4
●○●○●○●○●
> 4
> 5
> 5
> 6
5
> 5
5842
> 6
> 7
> 6
> 5
> 7
> 5
> 5
> 7
9
> 9
> 9
> 9
Next page: Hints
5843
Black’s potential eye space (●) has minor bulky tendencies at the left and
is elongated at the right.
5844
5845
!! !!
!!
one at the right.
5846
5847
2 2
2
Black’s partial groups at the left have only two liberties, one of which is
5848
1
Black’s single stone at the left has only one liberty, and so is in imminent
5849
1
The same applies for White’s single stone on the first line.
5850
Black.
5851
At the right, there is another line of false eyes (✕) visible.

5852
At the left, there also a line of false eyes ( , ✕) available.
5853
At the left, there is a dead four-point eye shape (△) visible, whose central
5854
empty.
5855
Next page: Solution
5856
4
A
Black extends to 4, aiming at getting a resilient shape for his group.
To be continued …
Black might consider capturing at A at the left instead.
5857
However, Black must not connect solidly at the left instead.
5858
Problem 042 (follow-up III)
5859
1
> 1
> 1
> 5
> 5
> 1
> 2
> 1
> 2
> 2
> 3
> 4
> 4
> 3
> 3
> 3
> 1
> 5
2
> 2
> 3
> 3
3
> 3
> 3
> 3
4
> 4
> 5
> 5
> 6
○●○●○●○●○
5
●○●○●○●○●
> 5
5860
> 6
> 7
> 6
> 5
> 7
> 5
> 5
> 7
9
> 9
> 9
> 9
Next page: Hints
5861
Hints 042 (follow-up III)
Black’s potential eye space (●) is already divided into several sections.
5862
5863
!!
!!
one at the right.
5864
5865
2 2
2
Black’s partial groups at the left have only two liberties, one of which is
5866
1
Black’s single stone at the left has only one liberty, and so is in imminent
5867
1
The same applies for White’s single stone on the first line.
5868
Black.
5869
At the left, there is another line of false eyes ( , ✕), which is quite
interesting for White.
5870
Another line of false eyes ( , ✕) at the top of Black’s formation.
5871
At the right, there is also another line of false eyes (✕) visible.

5872
At the right, there is a dead three-point eye shape (△), whose central point
Next page: Solution
5873
Solution 042 (follow-up III)
White 5 captures at the left, starting the ko for the life of Black’s group
immediately.
5874
ko
5875
○●○●○●○●○●○
5876
e
e
●○●○●○●○●○●
5877
6
7
Now, it will be shown that White does not have any internal ko threats
here.
5878
B 9
C A
White’s push at 9 is her first try.
White might consider jumping to A at the right, or giving atari at B, or

connecting at C at the left, instead.
5879
10
Black 10 simply captures at the left, ending the ko fight.
5880
13
15
14 11 12
White is able to capture three black stones with 15.
5881
16
A
B
But Black 16 recaptures.
5882
e e
5883
White tries the placement of 9 at the right.
5884
10
Black 10 again captures at the left, ending the ko fight.
5885
14 13
A
12 11 B
White is hindered from cutting at A, due to Black B, so Black’s three

stones are also alive.
5886
e
e
5887
9 A
B
White’s atari at 9 is a subtle move, hoping for a black mistake.
But Black will not capture at A, allowing White to recapture the ko at B.
5888
10
Black 10 simply connects, also ending the ko fight.
5889
11
12 14 13
White’s descent to 13 forces Black to connect at 14, securing his second

eye at the right.
5890
e
e
5891
5892
10
Black’s connection at 10 ends the ko fight.
5893
11 12
5894
13
14
White 13 and Black 14 are also miai, so White has no chance to kill
Black’s group..
5895
e e
Next page: Variation (semi-correct)
5896
Solution 042 (semi correct)
Black 4 captures at the left.
This is the “usual” continuation that is given in the books.
However, this sub-variation will include a small disadvantage for Black,

compared with the main line of the correct solution above, so – in my
5897
understanding – it can be called “semi-correct” only.
Black’s move cannot be really called a “mistake”, but it will affect the
number of ko threats that are needed to win the forthcoming ko fight in
White’s favour.
To be continued …
5898
Problem 042 (semi correct – follow-up)
< Go to the Solution >
5899
5900
1
> 1
> 1
> 5
> 5
> 1
> 2
> 1
> 2
> 2
> 3
> 4
> 4
> 3
> 3
> 3
> 1
> 5
2
> 2
> 3
> 3
3
> 3
> 3
> 3
4
> 4
> 5
> 5
> 6
5
○●○●○●○●○
> 5
●○●○●○●○●
5901
> 6
> 7
> 6
> 5
> 7
> 5
> 5
> 7
9
> 9
> 9
> 9
Next page: Hints
5902
Hints 042 (semi correct – follow-up)
Black’s potential eye space (●) has some bulky tendencies at the left and is
elongated at the right.
5903
5904
2 2
2
2
2 2
All of Black’s partial groups at the left have only two liberties, several of
which are shared, and so are very vulnerable to an attack.
5905
5906
Another line of false eyes ( , ✕) at the left.

5907
Yet another line of false eyes ( , ✕) at the top.
5908
!! !!
!!
one at the right.
5909
5910
At the left, there is a dead four-point eye shape (△) visible, whose central
5911
empty.
5912
Next page: Solution
5913
Solution 042 (semi correct – follow-up)
White 5 occupies the central point of Black’s potential eye space at the
left.
White will succeed neither by giving atari to Black’s three stones at the
top, nor by pushing from above, nor by jumping on the first line from the
5914
right.
Black 6 closes the gap in his encirclement.
Black must neither play one point to the left, nor connect his cutting point
at the left, instead.
5915
8
7
9
White 7 cuts at the left, also giving atari.
Black 8 gives counter-atari to White’s two stones, forcing White to capture

at 9. This starts the ko fight for the life of Black’s group.
5916
ko
Black has to look for the first valid ko threat.
This ko is advantageous for White, because she has an internal ko threat up

her sleeves.
5917
○●○●○●○●○●○
5918
10
11
12
5919
15 A 14 13
White 13 is an internal ko threat.
Black cannot end the ko by capturing at A (White would kill by extending

to 14), but has to block at 14.
5920
16
17
18
5921
19
20
Black ignores White’s ko threat of 19 in order to capture at 20, ending the

ko fight in his favour.
5922
e e
e
Next page: Failure
5923
042 Problem (semi correct – follow-up – failure I)
Black just played above White’s single stone.
White to kill.
5924
5925
1
> 1
> 1
> 5
> 5
> 1
> 2
> 1
> 2
> 2
> 3
> 4
> 4
> 3
> 3
> 3
> 1
> 5
2
> 2
> 3
> 3
3
> 3
> 3
> 3
4
> 4
> 5
> 5
> 6
5
> 5
○●○●○●○●○
> 6
5926
●○●○●○●○●
> 7
> 6
> 5
> 7
> 5
> 5
> 7
9
> 9
> 9
> 9
Next page: Solution
5927
042 Solution (semi correct – follow-up – failure I)
If there is no black support at the right, White might consider playing hane
at A instead.
5928
8
A
The shape point of A at the right looks attractive now, but White will not
play there.
5929
9 10
White 9 gives atari to the left again, forcing Black to capture at 10.
5930
11
White’s hane at 11 is the fatal blow, creating a false eye at the right.
Black has only one real eye, and so is dead.
5931
5932
White 7 is a hane at the right.
5933
B
8 A
Black blocks at 8, giving atari to White’s just-played stone.
But White will not connect at A.
Precondition of this sub-variation is the absence of black support at the

right. Otherwise, Black might continue with capturing at A, threatening to
connect parts of his troops to the outside.
To make the solution unique, it would be advisable to add a white stone at
5934
B to the problem’s setup.
9
10
11 12
White 9 gives atari at Black’s four stones.
Black connects at 10, but White 11 is another atari, sacrificing two stones,
instead of only one.
5935
13
White connects at 13, turning Black’s potential eye at the right into a false
one.
5936
5937
Lessons learned
2 2
2 2
2
2
5938
5939
have taken.
Next page: Failure
5940
042 Problem (semi correct – follow-up – failure II)
Black just connected at the left.
White to kill.
5941
5942
1
> 1
> 1
> 5
> 5
> 1
> 2
> 1
> 2
> 2
> 3
> 4
> 4
> 3
> 3
> 3
> 1
> 5
2
> 2
> 3
> 3
3
> 3
> 3
> 3
4
> 4
> 5
> 5
> 6
5
> 5
> 6
> 7
5943
○●○●○●○●○
> 6
●○●○●○●○●
> 5
> 7
> 5
> 5
> 7
9
> 9
> 9
> 9
Next page: Solution
5944
042 Solution (semi correct – follow-up – failure I)
White 7 pushes into Black’s formation from above.
5945
8
9 A
Black is forced to intercept at 8, but thereafter White’s descent to 9 is an

atari again. White sacrifices two stones here, instead of only one.
The shape point of A at the right is uninteresting now.
5946
10
5947
12 11 13
However, White’s hane at 11 turns Black’s potential eye into a false one.
Black’s atari at 12 is fruitless, White simply connects at 13.
5948
5949
Lessons learned
!!
!!
5950
5951
have taken.
Next page: Failure
5952
042 Problem (semi correct – follow-up – failure III)
White just played atari to Black’s three stones.
Black to live.
5953
5954
1
> 1
> 1
> 5
> 5
> 1
> 2
> 1
> 2
> 2
> 3
> 4
> 4
> 3
> 3
> 3
> 1
> 5
2
> 2
> 3
> 3
3
> 3
> 3
> 3
4
> 4
> 5
> 5
> 6
5
> 5
> 6
> 7
5955
> 6
○●○●○●○●○
> 5
●○●○●○●○●
> 7
> 5
> 5
> 7
9
> 9
> 9
> 9
Next page: Solution
5956
042 Solution (semi correct – follow-up – failure III)
Black does not save his three stones, but gives counter-atari at 6 instead,
solidifying his formation on the bottom.
Please note that this move occupies the vital point of the problem that
5957
7
A
5958
A
Black 8 occupies the vital shape point at the right.
He must not recapture at A; White’s placement at 8 will be fatal.
5959
9
10
White 9 and Black 10 are miai, so Black has got a living shape.
5960
e
e
5961
White 7 jumps into Black’s formation from the right, occupying the shape
point on the first line.
5962
8
Black 8 captures White’s single stone.
5963
10 9
5964
e
e
e
5965
Lessons learned
Especially if your object of desire is located on the outskirts of your

opponent’s formation.
5966
have.
5967
5968
5969
Capturing three opponent stones might result in nothing more than only a
false eye ( , ✕).
5970
have taken.
Next page: Failure
5971
042 Problem (semi correct – follow-up – failure IV)
White just pushed from above.
Black to live.
5972
5973
1
> 1
> 1
> 5
> 5
> 1
> 2
> 1
> 2
> 2
> 3
> 4
> 4
> 3
> 3
> 3
> 1
> 5
2
> 2
> 3
> 3
3
> 3
> 3
> 3
4
> 4
> 5
> 5
> 6
5
> 5
> 6
> 7
5974
> 6
> 5
> 7
○●○●○●○●○
> 5
●○●○●○●○●
> 5
> 7
9
> 9
> 9
> 9
Next page: Solution
5975
042 Solution (semi correct – follow-up – failure IV)
Black extends to 6, solidifying his formation on the bottom.
This move occupies the vital point of the problem that White should have
taken beforehand.
5976
7
White 7 gives atari to three black stones, but Black will not connect.
5977
9
8
Black 8 occupies the vital point on the first line at the right, securing two
eyes for his group.
White can do no more than capture at 9.
5978
10
A
B
But Black recaptures at 10.
5979
e
e
5980
Lessons learned
5981
5982
have taken.
Next page: Failure
5983
042 Problem (semi correct – follow-up – failure V)
White just jumped into Black’s formation from the right.
Black to live.
5984
5985
1
> 1
> 1
> 5
> 5
> 1
> 2
> 1
> 2
> 2
> 3
> 4
> 4
> 3
> 3
> 3
> 1
> 5
2
> 2
> 3
> 3
3
> 3
> 3
> 3
4
> 4
> 5
> 5
> 6
5
> 5
> 6
> 7
5986
> 6
> 5
> 7
> 5
○●○●○●○●○
> 5
●○●○●○●○●
> 7
9
> 9
> 9
> 9
Next page: Solution
5987
042 Solution (semi correct – follow-up – failure V)
B
6
A
taken beforehand.
Black must not descend to A, stopping White’s intruder from connecting

out, because White’s atari at B will be fatal.
5988
A
8 7
White 7 connects her just-played stone securely to the right.
White might consider pushing at A instead.
Black blocks at 8, securing two eyes for his group.
5989
10 9
A
B
White can force at 9, but Black will connect at 10.
White cannot cut at A, due to Black B, so Black has saved all of his stones.
5990
e
e
5991
5992
8
5993
10 9
White 9 and Black 10 are miai, so Black is alive with two eyes.
5994
e
e
5995
Lessons learned
5996
!! !!
!!

first.
5997
5998
have taken.
Next page: Failure
5999
042 Problem (follow-up II – failure)
Black just connected solidly at the left.
White to kill.
6000
6001
1
> 1
> 1
> 5
> 5
> 1
> 2
> 1
> 2
> 2
> 3
> 4
> 4
> 3
> 3
> 3
> 1
> 5
2
> 2
> 3
> 3
3
> 3
> 3
> 3
4
○●○●○●○●○
> 4
●○●○●○●○●
> 5
> 5
> 6
5
> 5
6002
> 6
> 7
> 6
> 5
> 7
> 5
> 5
> 7
9
> 9
> 9
> 9
Next page: Solution
6003
042 Solution (follow-up II – failure)
A B
White might consider jumping to A, or playing hane at B, instead.
6004
A
7
6
Black 6 occupies the shape point at the right.
White plays at 7, and Black is hindered from cutting at A, due to his

6005
9
Black’s atari at 8 is fruitless, as White simply connect at 9.
6006
6007
Black 6 blocks at the left.
6008
7
White 7 occupies the vital point at the right.
6009
10 A 9 8
Black descends to 8, in an attempt to maximise his potential eye space.
White extends to 9, occupying the miai point.
White’s -stone stops Black from dividing her eye space, by playing the
atari of A, so Black is forced to capture at the left, by playing at 10,
instead.
6010
A B
11
White extends once more to 11, creating a dead three-point eye shape
inside Black’s formation.
There are the cutting points of A and of B, so it will not result a seki.
6011
6012
White jumps to 5 from the right, stopping Black form occupying this vital
shape point.
6013
8 7
A
6
Black descends to 6, maximising his potential eye space.
White 7 pushes from above, and Black blocks at 8.
Playing at A instead will not change the matter.
6014
10 9
White 9 gives atari to Black’s stones at the left, and White captures at 10.
6015
11
White connects at 11, creating a dead eye shape inside Black’s formation.
6016
6017
White plays hane at 5 from the right.
Again, the validity of this sub-variation depends on the environmental

situation at the right.
6018
6
Black blocks at 6, giving atari.
6019
7
White 7 pushed from above.
Black 8 captures on the bottom right.
This move might have an effect to the outside.
6020
9
White 9 stops Black from getting his second eye at the left.
6021
10
A
Black jumps to 10 now.
The further development depends on the environment of the lower edge.
For example, it White continues by cutting at A, there will develop a ko

fight for connecting to the outside.
To make this solution unique, it would have been advisable to add a white
stone at 10 to the problem’s setup.
6022
6023
Lessons learned
Think twice before connecting a single stone that is caught in an atari.
6024
3 3
3
3 3
3
6025
!!
!!
6026
Next page: Failure
6027
Black to live.
6028
6029
1
> 1
> 1
> 5
> 5
> 1
> 2
> 1
> 2
> 2
> 3
> 4
> 4
> 3
> 3
> 3
> 1
> 5
2
> 2
> 3
> 3
3
○●○●○●○●○
> 3
●○●○●○●○●
> 3
> 3
4
> 4
> 5
> 5
> 6
5
> 5
6030
> 6
> 7
> 6
> 5
> 7
> 5
> 5
> 7
9
> 9
> 9
> 9
Next page: Solution
6031
Black extends to 4, solidifying his formation on the bottom.
6032
5
White’s atari at 5 comes too late now.
6033
7
9
8
White 7 gives atari at Black’s three stones.
Black 8 occupies the miai point at the right.
6034
10
A
B
But Black recaptures at 10, and is alive.
6035
e
e
6036
Lessons learned
(●).
6037
6038
behind, …
6039
6040
have taken.
Next page: Failure
6041
White just played inside Black’s formation.
Black to live.
6042
6043
1
> 1
> 1
> 5
> 5
> 1
> 2
> 1
> 2
> 2
> 3
> 4
> 4
> 3
> 3
> 3
> 1
> 5
2
> 2
> 3
> 3
3
> 3
○●○●○●○●○
> 3
●○●○●○●○●
> 3
4
> 4
> 5
> 5
> 6
5
> 5
6044
> 6
> 7
> 6
> 5
> 7
> 5
> 5
> 7
9
> 9
> 9
> 9
Next page: Solution
6045
Black connects along the first line, by extending to 4.
6046
6 5
White 5 pushes from above.
Black blocks at 6, capturing White’s single stone below for an eye.
6047
A
B 8 7
White’s hane at 7 does not really affect the status of Black’s group.
Black answers at 8. He has become the owner of the point of A, so B is a

real eye.
6048
e
e
6049
Lessons learned
6050
Next page: Failure
6051
Black to live.
6052
6053
1
> 1
> 1
> 5
> 5
> 1
> 2
> 1
> 2
> 2
> 3
> 4
> 4
> 3
> 3
> 3
> 1
> 5
2
> 2
> 3
> 3
3
> 3
> 3
○●○●○●○●○
> 3
●○●○●○●○●
4
> 4
> 5
> 5
> 6
5
> 5
6054
> 6
> 7
> 6
> 5
> 7
> 5
> 5
> 7
9
> 9
> 9
> 9
Next page: Solution
6055
Black extends to 4, strengthening his position at the left.
6056
6
6057
8
7 10 9
White can force, by connecting at 7 and pushing at 9, but Black 8 and 10

secure two eyes for his group.
6058
e
e
6059
Lessons learned
6060
6061
Mind your own weaknesses …
6062
… while attacking.
Next page: Failure
6063
White to kill.
6064
6065
1
> 1
> 1
> 5
> 5
> 1
> 2
> 1
> 2
> 2
> 3
> 4
> 4
> 3
> 3
> 3
> 1
> 5
2
○●○●○●○●○
> 2
●○●○●○●○●
> 3
> 3
3
> 3
> 3
> 3
4
> 4
> 5
> 5
> 6
5
> 5
6066
> 6
> 7
> 6
> 5
> 7
> 5
> 5
> 7
9
> 9
> 9
> 9
Next page: Solution
6067
B 3
White jumps to 3 from the right, occupying the shape point on the first
line.
White might consider pushing at A from above, or jumping to B from the

left, instead.
6068
4
Black descends to 4, stopping White from connecting out.
6069
5
Black tries the descent to 6 here, but his potential eye space has become
too small for two eyes.
6070
7
8
9
White forces at 7.
Black 8 and White 9 are miai, so Black is dead.
6071
6072
6073
4
Black 4 occupies the shape point at the right, but will end in vain.
6074
5
White jumps to 5 from the left.
6075
A
7
6
Black blocks at 6, but White’s extension to 7 stops him from cutting at A,

due to his shortage of liberties at the left.
Black has only one eye at the right, and so is dead.
6076
6077
White 3 jumps into Black’s formation from the left.
6078
4
Black intercepts by descending to 4.
6079
A 5
6
Black connects at 6, aiming at consolidating his potential eye space.
Playing at A instead will not make a difference here.
6080
8 7 9
White’s hane at 7 is fatal.
Black 8 is fruitless, because he is defending only a false eye.
White solidly connects at 9, and Black is dead with only one eye.
6081
6082
Lessons learned
!!
!! !!
space.
6083
Next page: Failure
6084
Black to live.
6085
6086
1
○●○●○●○●○
> 1
●○●○●○●○●
> 1
> 5
> 5
> 1
> 2
> 1
> 2
> 2
> 3
> 4
> 4
> 3
> 3
> 3
> 1
> 5
2
> 2
> 3
> 3
3
> 3
> 3
> 3
4
> 4
> 5
> 5
> 6
5
> 5
6087
> 6
> 7
> 6
> 5
> 7
> 5
> 5
> 7
9
> 9
> 9
> 9
Next page: Solution
6088
Black extends to 2, solidifying his position on the bottom.
6089
3 4
White jumps to 3 from the right, but is blocked by Black’s descent to 4.
6090
7
8 5 6
White’s hane at 5 comes much too late now.
Black defends by playing the atari of 6.
White’s counter-atari at 7 does not work any longer, because Black simply
captures at 8.
6091
9
11
10
White 11 captures three black stones, but …
6092
12
A
B
… Black recaptures at 12 and is alive.
6093
e e
6094
Lessons learned
6095
When attacking from the outside, do not allow your opponent to turn their
potential eye space into a long winding line of empty points (●; “snake”).
6096
!!
!! !!

first.
Next page: Failure
6097
Black to live.
6098
6099
1
> 1
○●○●○●○●○
> 1
●○●○●○●○●
> 5
> 5
> 1
> 2
> 1
> 2
> 2
> 3
> 4
> 4
> 3
> 3
> 3
> 1
> 5
2
> 2
> 3
> 3
3
> 3
> 3
> 3
4
> 4
> 5
> 5
> 6
5
> 5
6100
> 6
> 7
> 6
> 5
> 7
> 5
> 5
> 7
9
> 9
> 9
> 9
Next page: Solution
6101
Black 2 solidly connects at the left, successfully stopping White from

connecting out.
6102
4 3
Black 4 closes the borders of his formation. There is no chance for White
left to stop Black from dividing his eye space.
6103
5 A B
Here, White tries the descent to 5.
White might consider jumping to A, or playing hane at B, instead.
6104
6 8 7
Black 6 occupies the shape point at the right.
White forces at 7, but Black simply connects at 8.
6105
B 9 A 10
White’s hane at 9 is a nice try.
Black is hindered from intercepting at A, due to his shortage of liberties,

but his partial group at the right has sufficient liberties left. Black wins by
giving atari at 10.
6106
e e
6107
White 5 occupies the shape point at the bottom right.
6108
6
Black blocks by descending to 6, also maximising his eye space.
6109
8 7
White’s descent to 7 is frustrated by Black’s atari at 8.
Black’s eye space consists of four points in a row now, so he has two eyes
for sure.
6110
e e
6111
White 5 is a hane from the right, aiming at creating a false eye in that area.
6112
6
6113
A
8 B 7
6114
e
e
6115
Lessons learned
6116
Next page: Failure
6117
White just jumped on the first line at the right.
Black to live.
6118
6119
1
> 1
> 1
> 5
> 5
○●○●○●○●○
> 1
●○●○●○●○●
> 2
> 1
> 2
> 2
> 3
> 4
> 4
> 3
> 3
> 3
> 1
> 5
2
> 2
> 3
> 3
3
> 3
> 3
> 3
4
> 4
> 5
> 5
> 6
5
> 5
6120
> 6
> 7
> 6
> 5
> 7
> 5
> 5
> 7
9
> 9
> 9
> 9
Next page: Solution
6121
Black extends to 2, strengthening his formation at the left.
Black must not descend at the right instead.
6122
3
6123
7
8 5 6
White’s hane at 5 comes too late now.
White’s counter-atari at 7 does not work any longer, because Black is able
to capture at 8.
6124
9
11
10
White 11 captures three black stones, but …
6125
12
A
B
… Black recaptures at 12.
6126
e e
6127
Lessons learned
6128
!!
!! !!

first.
6129
6130
Next page: Failure
6131
Black just descended at the right.
6132
6133
1
> 1
> 1
> 5
> 5
> 1
○●○●○●○●○
> 2
●○●○●○●○●
> 1
> 2
> 2
> 3
> 4
> 4
> 3
> 3
> 3
> 1
> 5
2
> 2
> 3
> 3
3
> 3
> 3
> 3
4
> 4
> 5
> 5
> 6
5
> 5
6134
> 6
> 7
> 6
> 5
> 7
> 5
> 5
> 7
9
> 9
> 9
> 9
Next page: Solution
6135
White returns to the course of the correct solution – in principle – by

playing the hane of 3 at the left.
6136
5
Black blocks at 4, and White gives counter-atari at 5.
6137
B
7 6
A
Black 6 creates a ko shape at the left.
Black cannot capture at A instead. White will give atari at B, and win.
White captures at 7, starting the uncalled-for ko fight for the life of Black’s
group.
6138
ko
6139
○●○●○●○●○●○
6140
e
e
6141
Lessons learned
!!
!!
6142
When playing on the outside, do not leave a dead eye shape ( , △) inside
behind, whose central point is already occupied by your opponent.
Next page: Failure
6143
White just jumped on the first line at the left.
Black to live.
6144
6145
1
> 1
> 1
> 5
> 5
> 1
> 2
○●○●○●○●○
> 1
●○●○●○●○●
> 2
> 2
> 3
> 4
> 4
> 3
> 3
> 3
> 1
> 5
2
> 2
> 3
> 3
3
> 3
> 3
> 3
4
> 4
> 5
> 5
> 6
5
> 5
6146
> 6
> 7
> 6
> 5
> 7
> 5
> 5
> 7
9
> 9
> 9
> 9
Next page: Solution
6147
Black 2 occupies the shape point at the bottom right.
Black might consider descending at the left, immediately stopping White’s

single stone from connecting out.
However, Black must not solidly connect at the left instead.
6148
3
B 4
A
White might consider connecting at A, or playing at 4, or pushing upwards

to B, instead.
Black extends to 4, successfully consolidating his formation, on the

bottom.
6149
5 6
6150
e
e
6151
White 3 connects her just-played stone to the left.
6152
4
Black blocks, by playing the diagonal move at 4, securing his second eye
on the first line.
6153
6 5
7
Giving atari at 5 does not benefit White here.
Black cuts at 6, giving counter-atari.
6154
8
B A
Black 8 is an atari to two white stones.
White cannot connect at A, due to Black B, so Black will live by capturing

her two stones.
6155
A
B
9 10 C
White’s connection at 9 forces Black to capture at 10.
A white move at A will be gote. Black can connect at B at any time he

wants to do, so C is a real eye.
6156
e
e
6157
White tries the diagonal move of 3, playing upwards.
6158
4
A
Black solidly connects at 4, threatening to capture White’s stones, by

continuing at A.
6159
5 6 7
White extends to 5, frustrating Black’s plans – but for the time being only.
Black throws in at 6, forcing White to capture at 7.
6160
8
B A
Black 8 gives atari. White is unable to connect at A, due to Black B.
Black will live by capturing White’s two stones.
6161
e
e
6162
A
3
White 3 extends upwards, threatening to continue at A, giving double-

atari.
6163
4
Black 4 takes a liberty of White’s two stones, preparing for a second eye
on the first line.
6164
5 A
B 6
White cuts at 5, giving double-atari to Black’s stones.
Black descends to 6, securing life for the main part of his group.
Capturing at A, or at B, is left as an endgame issue.
6165
e
e
6166
Black is able to descend to 2 at the left, capturing White’s just-played

stone.
6167
4 3
White forces with 3, slightly reducing Black’s territory.
Black 4 closes the borders of his formation at the top.
6168
A
8 B 6 5 7
White continues with 5 and 7 at the right, but cannot stop Black from
creating two eyes.
6169
e e
6170
Lessons learned
6171
behind, …
6172
6173
have taken.
Next page: Failure
6174
White to kill.
6175
6176
1
> 1
> 1
> 5
> 5
> 1
> 2
> 1
> 2
○●○●○●○●○
> 2
●○●○●○●○●
> 3
> 4
> 4
> 3
> 3
> 3
> 1
> 5
2
> 2
> 3
> 3
3
> 3
> 3
> 3
4
> 4
> 5
> 5
> 6
5
> 5
6177
> 6
> 7
> 6
> 5
> 7
> 5
> 5
> 7
9
> 9
> 9
> 9
Next page: Solution
6178
White 3 occupies the shape point at the right, being one of the vital points
of this position that Black should have taken beforehand.
White must not push from above instead.
6179
A B 4
Black descends to 4, closing the border of his potential eye space.
Black might consider descending to A at the left, or giving atari at B,

instead.
6180
5 6
White extends to 5, taking a decisive liberty of Black’s five stones above.
Black’s block at 6 is also an atari.
6181
A 7
White’s push to 7 massively weakens Black’s shape at the left.
Black is forced to capture White’s two stones.
Black is unable to block at A instead, because White’s connection at 8

would leave him with only a false eye at the left.
6182
9
11
10
White 9 pushes further into Black’s formation.
Thereafter, Black 10 and White 11 are miai. Black cannot get a real eye at
the left.
6183
6184
Black descends to 4, blocking White’s escape route to the left.
6185
6 5
However, White chooses the other one, by extending to 5.
Black 6 captures White’s single stone at the left, hoping for a second eye
above.
6186
8 7
White’s push to 7 from above makes miai of Black 8 and White 9.
Black cannot get more than one real eye, and so is dead.
6187
6188
Black gives atari to White’s single stone on the first line, by playing the
diagonal move of 4.
6189
5
Black tries his best by capturing at 6.
6190
7
8
9
White 7 pushes further, making miai of Black 8 and White 9.
Again, Black cannot get more than one real eye, and so is dead.
6191
6192
Lessons learned
!!
!! !!
6193
Mind even potential lines of false eyes ( , ✕).
Next page: Failure
6194
Black to live.
6195
6196
1
> 1
> 1
> 5
> 5
> 1
> 2
> 1
> 2
> 2
○●○●○●○●○
> 3
●○●○●○●○●
> 4
> 4
> 3
> 3
> 3
> 1
> 5
2
> 2
> 3
> 3
3
> 3
> 3
> 3
4
> 4
> 5
> 5
> 6
5
> 5
6197
> 6
> 7
> 6
> 5
> 7
> 5
> 5
> 7
9
> 9
> 9
> 9
Next page: Solution
6198
Black 4 occupies the vital shape point at the right that should have been
taken by White beforehand.
6199
5 6
6200
7
8
A
White cannot destroy Black’s just won eye on the first line.
Her forcing move at 7 is answered by Black’s connection at 8.
Black must not hastily capture two white stones, by playing at A. White 8
would kill his group.
6201
e
e
6202
Lessons learned
6203
6204
△) behind, …
6205
6206
have taken.
Next page: Failure
6207
Black to live.
6208
6209
1
> 1
> 1
> 5
> 5
> 1
> 2
> 1
>2
>2
> 3
> 4
> 4
> 3
> 3
> 3
○●○●○●○●○
> 1
●○●○●○●○●
> 5
2
> 2
> 3
> 3
3
> 3
> 3
> 3
4
> 4
> 5
> 5
> 6
5
> 5
6210
> 6
> 7
> 6
> 5
> 7
> 5
> 5
> 7
9
> 9
> 9
> 9
Next page: Solution
6211
Black 2 solidifies his formation.
6212
3
White plays the hane of 3 at the left, but there will be no ko on the bottom
line.
6213
4
Black’s descent to 4 will save his group.
6214
B 6
A
5
White 5 connects to the left.
White might consider pushing at 6 instead.
Black connects at 6, securing an eye on either side. White is hindered from

further approaching at A, due to her shortage of liberties, so B is a real eye.
6215
e
e
6216
6217
6
Black captures at 6, occupying the miai point.
6218
8 7
White’s hane at 7 turns Black’s potential eye at the right into a false one.
However, Black captures at 8, securing his eyes at the left.
6219
9 10
White 9 and Black 10 are miai. Black lives with two eyes.
6220
e
e
6221
Lessons learned
6222
6223
△) behind, …
6224
6225
Problem 043
6226
6227
○●○●○●○●○
1
●○●○●○●○●
> 1
> 1
2
> 2
> 2
3
> 3
> 3
> 3
4
> 4
> 5
> 6
> 8
> 4
> 4
> 9
> 4
Next page: Hints
6228
Hints 043
White’s potential eye space (●) is quite large, with strong bulky
tendencies.
6229
6230
!!
!!
!! !!
There are three holes (!!) in White’s formation, a larger one at the left, and
smaller ones at the top and at the right.
6231
6232
A
White’s two -stones in that area stop Black from occupying the point of
A immediately, threatening White’s cutting points below.
6233
Black’s -stones at the left are strong, but a bit far away and located only
on the third line.
6234
the left.
6235
3
3
White’s single stones at the top have only three liberties, most of which are
shared, and so are quite vulnerable to an attack.
Please remember that Black is hindered from immediately occupying one

of these liberties from above.
6236
4
4 4 4
White’s other groups have four liberties.
6237
Black’s formation at the right ( ) is quite strong, weakening White’s
position nearby.
6238
In the centre of White’s formation, there are two lines of false eyes ( , ✕)
available, which share their end point.
Please remember that it needs permanent stones at both ends of such a line
of false eyes to make it work.
6239
At the left, there is a dead six-point eye shape (△) visible, whose central
6240
Another version of this dead six-point eye shape (△).
6241
However, this dead eye shape does not fill White’s potential eye space
completely, so Black will want to carefully consider whether the central
point (□) of this shape really is a vital point of the problem.
Next page: Solution
6242
Solution 043
Black’s placement of 1 occupies the central point of the empty area at the
left, and also threatens to cut at the right.
To be continued …
Black will succeed neither by attaching below White’s single stone at the
6243
left, nor by jumping deep into White’s formation on the second line.
6244
6245
1
> 1
> 1
○●○●○●○●○
2
●○●○●○●○●
> 2
> 2
3
> 3
> 3
> 3
4
> 4
> 5
> 6
> 8
> 4
> 4
> 9
> 4
Next page: Hints
6246
White’s maximum potential eye space (●) is quite large, with strong bulky
tendencies.
6247
6248
!!
!!
!!
Black’s -stones at the top and at the left are strong, addressing the
respective holes (!!) in White’s formation.
6249
3
3
White’s two stones at the top have only three liberties, and so are quite
Please note Black’s troublemaker inside White’s formation, aiming at

attacking these stones from below.
6250
4
4 4 4
White’s groups at the right and at the left have four liberties.
6251
4
Black’s intruder also has four liberties, making this stone quite vivid.
6252
!!
Black’s strong -stones at the right are aiming at the hole (!!) in White’s
formation at the right, as well as at the cutting point ( , ✕) in the centre.
Next page: Solution
6253
White attaches, by playing the diagonal move at 2, aiming at stopping

Black from turning her potential eye space into a large bulky shape.
This move also took one of the liberties from Black’s, reducing its impact
to the right a bit.
6254
To be continued …

connecting solidly above Black’s just-played stone.
6255
6256
1
> 1
> 1
2
> 2
> 2
○●○●○●○●○
3
●○●○●○●○●
> 3
> 3
> 3
4
> 4
> 5
> 6
> 8
> 4
> 4
> 9
> 4
Next page: Hints
6257
White’s maximum potential eye space (●) is quite large.
It is still bulky in the centre, but has several options for partitioning left.
6258
6259
3
3
3
Three of White’s single stones have only three liberties, and so are quite
6260
4
4 4 4
White’s groups at the right and at the left have four liberties.
6261
!!
!!
!!
Black’s -stones at the top and at the left are strong, addressing the
respective holes (!!) in White’s formation.
6262
!!
formation at the right, as well as at the cutting point ( , ✕) on the second
line.
6263
3
Black’s single stone inside White’s formation has only three liberties.
Its impact to the right might have been reduced a bit.
6264
In the centre of White’s formation, there is a dead five-point eye shape
visible ( , △), whose central point ( ) is already occupied by Black.
6265
Another dead five-point eye shape ( , △), but whose central point is still
unoccupied.
6266
?
?
Black will have to take into account that the ?-area at the left might
become an eye for White.
Next page: Solution
6267
Black 3 is a very surprising attachment, addressing White’s cutting point at

the left.
To be continued …
Black will succeed neither by playing a diagonal move at the left, nor by
6268
pushing upwards in the centre of White’s formation, nor by cutting at the
right inside White’s formation.
6269
Problem 043 (follow-up III)
6270
6271
1
> 1
> 1
2
> 2
> 2
3
> 3
> 3
> 3
○●○●○●○●○
4
●○●○●○●○●
> 4
> 5
> 6
> 8
> 4
> 4
> 9
> 4
Next page: Hints
6272
Hints 043 (follow-up III)
White’s maximum potential eye space (●) is quite large.
It is still bulky in the centre, but has several options for partitioning left.
However, Black has already placed some stones inside her formation.
6273
6274
!!
Black’s -stones at the top are strong, addressing the respective hole (!!)
in White’s formation.
6275
!!
!!
Black’s -stones at the left are strong, addressing the respective holes (!!)
in White’s formation.
They are also looking forward to providing support to Black’s ◇-stone.
6276
3
3 3
Three of White’s single stones have only three liberties, several of which
6277
2
White’s single stone on the second line has only two liberties, and so is in
6278
2 3
Black’s stones on the second line have three, respectively two, liberties,
and so are quite vulnerable to an attack.
6279
4 4 4
White’s groups at the right has four liberties.
6280
!!
formation at the right, as well as at the cutting point ( , ✕) on the second
line.
6281
At the bottom left, there is a line of false eyes ( , X) available for Black.
Next page: Solution
6282
Solution 043 (follow-up III)
A 4
White 4 is a hane underneath to the right.
White might consider giving atari at A at the left instead.
White will succeed neither by giving atari from above at the left, nor by
connecting solidly at the left, nor by descending at the left.
6283
5
Black 5 gives atari to White’s stone below.
6284
6 7
White is unable to connect, so she gives counter-atari at 6, creating a ko

shape on the bottom.
Black 7 captures, starting the ko fight for the life of White’s group.
6285
ko
This ko fight is advantageous for Black, because he has an internal ko

threat up his sleeves.
6286
●○●○●○●○●○●
6287
8 9
10
6288
12
11
13
Black extends to 11.
White cannot connect the ko, and so has to crosscut at 12, giving double-
atari.
6289
14 15
16
6290
17 18

ko fight.
White needed two more valid ko threats than Black to win, not only one.
6291
e
e
6292
White 4 gives atari to the left. This move will result in a change in the
order of moves.
6293
5
Black 5 gives counter-atari from above.
Black must not save his single stone at the left by extending.
6294
7 6
White’s hane at 6 creates the ko shape at the bottom.
Black 7 captures, starting the ko fight for the life of White’s group that we
already have discussed before.
6295
ko
6296
●○●○●○●○●○●
6297
e
e
Next page: Failure
6298
043 Problem (follow-up III – failure I)
Black just saved his single stone at the left.
6299
6300
1
> 1
> 1
2
> 2
> 2
3
> 3
> 3
> 3
4
> 4
○●○●○●○●○
> 5
●○●○●○●○●
> 6
> 8
> 4
> 4
> 9
> 4
Next page: Solution
6301
043 Solution (follow-up III – failure I)
White answers with the hane at 6 on the first line.
White must not connect above instead.
6302
7 8
Black 7 gives atari from above, followed by White’s counter-atari at 8.
6303
9
Black 9 captures on the bottom left, beginning the ko fight for the life of
White’s group.
However, Black’s extension to has been played much too early, so

Black does not have any internal ko threat here.
6304
ko
6305
●○●○●○●○●○●
6306
e
e
6307
Lessons learned
6308
?
?

Next page: Failure
6309
043 Problem (follow-up III – failure II)
White just connected solidly above Black’s single stone.
Black to kill.
6310
6311
1
> 1
> 1
2
> 2
> 2
3
> 3
> 3
> 3
4
>4
> 5
○●○●○●○●○
> 6
●○●○●○●○●
> 8
> 4
> 4
> 9
> 4
Next page: Solution
6312
043 Solution (follow-up III – failure II)
Black’s hane of 7 at the right successfully reduces White’s potential eye

space.
6313
A
8 9
White plays the atari at 8 from below.
Black extends to 9, further reducing White’s potential eye space.
6314
11 10
12
White 10 tries to build an eye in the top left, but she is stopped by Black’s
cut at 11.
White 12 and …
6315
13
… Black 13 are miai. White cannot get more than one eye, and so is dead.
6316
6317
White 8 gives atari from above, but will not help either.
6318
A 9
Black’s extension to 9 reduces White’s potential eye space.
Black could also play at A instead, to the same effect.
6319
10
White 10 and …
6320
13 12
11
Black 11 are miai, as are White 12 and Black 13.
White has only one real eye, and so is dead.
6321
6322
Lessons learned
6323
unoccupied.
6324
!!
6325
Mind the lines of false eyes ( , ✕).
Next page: Failure
6326
043 Problem (follow-up III – failure III)
White just played atari from above.
Black to kill.
6327
6328
1
> 1
> 1
2
> 2
> 2
3
> 3
> 3
> 3
4
> 4
> 5
6 >
> 8
○●○●○●○●○
> 4
●○●○●○●○●
> 4
> 9
> 4
Next page: Solution
6329
043 Solution (follow-up III – failure III)
Black plays the crosscut at 5, giving counter-atari.
6330
6
6331
7
Black 7 extends upwards, threatening to cut White’s partial groups apart.
6332
9
8
10
White 10 connects along the bottom line.
6333
11 12
Black’s throw-in at 11 destroys White’s potential eye at the right.
6334
13
… Black plays hane at 13, and there will be no real eye at the right.
6335
17
15 14
16
White tries her best by extending to 14.
However, Black’s block at 15 makes miai of White 16 and Black 17.
White cannot get more than one real eye at the left, and so is dead.
6336
6337
Lessons learned
6338
6339
!!
!!
Next page: Failure
6340
043 Problem (follow-up III – failure IV)
Black to kill.
6341
6342
1
> 1
> 1
2
> 2
> 2
3
> 3
> 3
> 3
4
> 4
> 5
> 6
> 8
> 4
○●○●○●○●○
> 4
●○●○●○●○●
> 9
> 4
Next page: Solution
6343
043 Solution (follow-up III – failure IV)
Black’s cut at 5 is decisive, stopping White from dividing her potential eye
space.
6344
8 6 7
While White is busy with capturing two black stones, by playing at 6 and
8, Black’s hane of 7 at the right reduces White’s potential eye space.
6345
10
9
A
Black extends to 9, saving his single stone at the left.
Black might consider playing immediately at A instead.
White cannot play at A for her second eye, due to her shortage of liberties,
so she has to capture at 10 instead.
6346
11
Black 11 occupies the miai point, and White is dead.
6347
6348
Black 9 gives atari to White’s three stones at the right.
6349
A
10
11
White tries to sacrifice her stones at the right, and plays 10 at the left,
If she captures at 10 instead, Black will extend to 10, and White has only
one eye.
Black 11 captures at the right.
6350
12
White 12 captures Black’s stone.
6351
13
Black’s block at 13 stops White from creating another eye at the left, so
White is dead.
6352
6353
Lessons learned
!!
6354
6355
!!
!! !!
6356
6357
unoccupied.
Next page: Failure
6358
043 Problem (follow-up III – failure V)
Black to kill.
6359
6360
1
> 1
> 1
2
> 2
> 2
3
> 3
> 3
> 3
4
> 4
> 5
> 6
> 8
>4
>4
> 9
○●○●○●○●○
> 4
●○●○●○●○●
Next page: Solution
6361
043 Solution (follow-up III – failure V)
Black cuts at 5, spoiling White’s potential eye space.
6362
6
8
9 7
White forces at 6.
Black plays the hane of 7 at the right here.
Alternatively, he could also extend to 8.
White 8 aims at creating two eyes at the left, sacrificing her three stones at
the right.
6363
Black 9 gives atari to White’s three stones, securely capturing them.
11 10
White 10 and Black 11 are miai, so there will be no eye for White at the
top.
6364
13 12
14 15
White’s extension to 12 is blocked by Black 13.
White 14 and Black 15 are miai. White has only one eye, and so is dead.
6365
6366
Lessons learned
Partitioning your potential eye space (●) makes sense only if you will be
able to keep both sections as your territory thereafter.
6367
!!
!!
!! !!
6368
6369
unoccupied.
6370
Mind even potential lines of false eyes ( , △).
Next page: Failure
6371
043 Problem (follow-up II – failure I)
Black just played a diagonal move at the left.
White to live.
6372
6373
1
> 1
> 1
2
> 2
> 2
3
○●○●○●○●○
> 3
●○●○●○●○●
> 3
> 3
4
> 4
> 5
> 6
> 8
> 4
> 4
> 9
> 4
Next page: Solution
6374
043 Solution (follow-up II – failure I)
White solidly connects at 4, solidifying her formation.
6375
B
6 A 5
Black’s hane at 5 aims at reducing White’s potential eye space.
White 6 gives atari from below, securing an eye above and threatening to
live by blocking at A (or capturing at B).
6376
8
Black 7 extends at the bottom right, but this move is gote locally.
White is able to occupy the miai point of 8 at the top.
6377
10
Black 9 and White 10 are miai, too.
Black cannot stop White from getting her second eye at the left.
6378
e
e
6379
Lessons learned
6380
6381
unoccupied.
Next page: Failure
6382
043 Problem (follow-up II – failure II)
Black just pushed upward inside White’s position.
White to live.
6383
6384
1
> 1
> 1
2
> 2
> 2
3
> 3
○●○●○●○●○
> 3
●○●○●○●○●
> 3
4
> 4
> 5
> 6
> 8
> 4
> 4
> 9
> 4
Next page: Solution
6385
043 Solution (follow-up II – failure II)
White 4 blocks to the left, also taking a decisive liberty of Black’s two
stones inside her formation.
6386
6
Black cuts at 5, giving atari.
But White has sufficient liberties left to be able to connect at 6.
6387
8 10 9 7
Black forces with 7 and 9 at the right, but White captures Black’s three
stones, by playing at 8 and 10.
6388
11 12
Black 11 and White 12 are miai. Black cannot stop White from getting a
living shape.
6389
e
e
6390
Lessons learned
Before playing inside, aiming at creating a dead eye shape ( , △), …
6391
?
?
… consider carefully whether there might be another area (?) left, which
might have sufficient potential for becoming another eye of your
opponent’s group.
6392
Remember that capturing a dead eye shape ( , ✕) is sente locally.
Next page: Failure
6393
043 Problem (follow-up II – failure III)
Black just pushed to the right inside White’s position.
White to live.
6394
6395
1
> 1
> 1
2
> 2
> 2
3
> 3
> 3
○●○●○●○●○
> 3
●○●○●○●○●
4
> 4
> 5
> 6
> 8
> 4
> 4
> 9
> 4
Next page: Solution
6396
043 Solution (follow-up II – failure III)
White connects at 4, consolidating her formation.
Black’s two stones have only two liberties, and so are securely captured.
6397
5
Black tries the diagonal move of 5 at the left.
6398
6
White occupies the miai point of 6, aiming at an eye below.
6399
7
8
Black’s push to 7 forces White to give atari at 8, preventing a ko at the left.
6400
9
10
Black 9 destroys White’s potential eye at the top, but White’s descent to
10 enlarges White’s eye space successfully. There is no chance left for
Black to prevent two eyes for White.
6401
e
e
6402
Lessons learned
3 3
6403
Before playing inside, aiming at creating a dead eye shape ( , △), …
6404
?
?
?
… consider carefully whether there might be another areas (?) left, which
might have sufficient potential for becoming another eye of your
opponent’s group.
6405
unoccupied.
Next page: Failure
6406
Black to kill.
6407
6408
1
> 1
> 1
2
○●○●○●○●○
> 2
●○●○●○●○●
> 2
3
> 3
> 3
> 3
4
> 4
> 5
> 6
> 8
> 4
> 4
> 9
> 4
Next page: Solution
6409
Black’s jump-attachment at 3 is fatal.
6410
6
5
4
White 4 tries to block Black’s escape route to the left.
Black 5 pushes upwards, forcing White to block at 6. But there are too
many white cutting points left.
6411
7
8
9
Black cuts at 7, also giving atari.
White connects at 8, after which Black’s descent to 9 reduces the liberties

of White’s left hand group to only two.
6412
13
11
B A 10 C 12 D
White’s atari at 10 does not help here.
White tries to connect, by playing the hane of 12, but Black 13 is an atari,
leaving White helpless.
If White connects at A, Black gives atari at B. White cannot further

connect at C, due to Black D.
6413
At the bottom right, there is only one eye for White, so her group is dead.
6414
Lessons learned
Think twice before connecting some of your stones that are located on the
outskirts of your formation.
6415
!!
!!
!! !!
Next page: Failure
6416
White just connected solidly above Black’s single stone.
Black to kill.
6417
6418
1
> 1
> 1
2
> 2
○●○●○●○●○
> 2
●○●○●○●○●
3
> 3
> 3
> 3
4
> 4
> 5
> 6
> 8
> 4
> 4
> 9
> 4
Next page: Solution
6419
Black’s extension to 3 threatens to connect out to the left.
6420
4 5
White 4 blocks Black’s escape route.
However, there was a second threat included in Black’s initial move.
Black cuts at 5, and will capture White’s three stones at the right, which
have only three liberties left.
6421
9
7 6 10
8 11
There is not even a single eye for White in the corner, so all of her stones
are dead.
6422
6423
Lessons learned
!!
!!
!! !!
6424
6425
have taken.
Next page: Failure
6426
Black just attached at the left.
White to live.
6427
6428
1
○●○●○●○●○
> 1
●○●○●○●○●
> 1
2
> 2
> 2
3
> 3
> 3
> 3
4
> 4
> 5
> 6
> 8
> 4
> 4
> 9
> 4
Next page: Solution
6429
White’s diagonal move of 2 occupies the vital point of the problem that
6430
3
Black’s placement at 3 occupies the central point of White’s potential eye

space on the bottom.
6431
4
White 4 extends to the left, threatening to capture Black’s single stone

there, and also aiming at creating her second eye above.
6432
A 6
B
5
Black 5 saves his single stone, securely connecting it to the left.
White 6 maximises her eye space at the top. The points of A and of B are
miai, so Black cannot turn White’s eye into a false one.
6433
e
e
6434
Lessons learned
6435
6436
6437
have taken.
Next page: Failure
6438
Black just jumped into White’s formation.
White to live.
6439
6440
1
> 1
○●○●○●○●○
> 1
●○●○●○●○●
2
> 2
> 2
3
> 3
> 3
> 3
4
> 4
> 5
> 6
> 8
> 4
> 4
> 9
> 4
Next page: Solution
6441
White descends to 2, blocking Black’s escape route to the left.
6442
3
4
Black’s diagonal move at 3 forces White to further descend to 4. White’s

potential eye space has become too large now; Black cannot succeed any
longer.
6443
5 6
8 7
Black extends to 5, aiming at filling White’s potential eye space with a

large dead eye shape, and also threatening to cut at the right.
White 6 connects solidly.
Black’s hane at 7 reduces White’s territory a bit, but he is stopped by

White 8.
6444
10 9
Black tries his best by playing hane at 9, but White 10 makes sure that her
eye space consists of a long line of points that can be partitioned easily.
6445
e
e
6446
Lessons learned
Your attack might fail if your just played move ( ) serves only one
purpose.

your opponent might be free to consolidate their formation.
6447
Do not force your opponent to maximise their potential eye space.
6448
Problem 044
White to kill.
6449
○●○●○●○●○
1
●○●○●○●○●
> 1
> 3
> 3
> 1
> 1
> 1
> 6
> 7
> 7
> 6
> 6
> 7
> 7
> 1
> 3
> 3
> 3
2
> 2
> 3
> 5
> 5
> 5
> 3
> 3
> 4
> 5
> 5
> 4
> 5
> 5
> 6
6450
> 7
> 2
> 3
> 5
> 4
> 5
> 7
> 7
3
> 3
> 5
> 3
> 5
5
> 5
6
> 6
Next page: Hints
6451
Hints 044
Black’s potential eye space (●) consists of a circle of empty points.
6452
6453
!!
!!
!! !!
There are three holes (!!) in Black’s formation, a larger one at the right,
and smaller ones at the top and at the left.
6454
6455
friendly stone on any of the ◇-points.
However, White’s stones are a bit far away, so …
6456
… Black’s maximum potential eye space (●) might increase by two points
at the right.
6457
3
Two of Black’s stones have only three liberties, and so are quite
6458
4 4
4
Black’s other stones have four liberties, and so are unlikely to become the
primary target for attack.
6459
At the top, there is a line of false eyes (✕) visible.
Remember that it needs permanent stones on both ends of such a line of

false eyes to make it work.
6460
Another line of false eyes (✕) at the top.
6461
6462
At the left, there is also a line of false eyes ( ).
White might want to consider carefully, which of these lines to address

first.
Next page: Solution
6463
Solution 044
White will succeed neither by playing a diagonal move at the right, nor by
jumping on the first line from the left, nor by playing hane at the left, nor
by connecting solidly at the left, nor by attaching Black’s two stones at the
6464
top.
2
A
B
Black blocks at 2, hoping for an eye at the left and an eye at the right.
To be continued …
Black might consider playing the diagonal move of A at the right, or

occupying the point of B on the first line at the left, instead.
6465
6466
Black plays the diagonal move of 2, in an attempt to maximise his

To be continued …
6467
6468
Black plays at 2 on the first line, hoping for an eye above.
To be continued …
6469
6470
White to kill.
6471
6472
1
> 1
> 3
> 3
> 1
> 1
> 1
> 6
> 7
> 7
> 6
> 6
> 7
> 7
> 1
> 3
> 3
> 3
2
> 2
> 3
> 5
> 5
> 5
> 3
> 3
> 4
> 5
> 5
> 4
> 5
> 5
> 6
> 7
> 2
6473
> 3
> 5
> 4
5 >
> 7
> 7
○●○●○●○●○
3
●○●○●○●○●
> 3
> 5
> 3
> 5
5
> 5
6
> 6
Next page: Hints
6474
Black’s maximum potential eye space (●) has bulky tendencies at the right
and is elongated at the left.
6475
6476
!!
!! !!
There are two holes (!!) in Black’s formation, a larger one at the right, and
smaller ones at the left.
6477
2
Two of Black’s stones have only three, respectively two, liberties, and so
are quite vulnerable to an attack.
6478
4
Black’s single stone at the right has four liberties, and so is unlikely to
However, White’s line of diagonally connected stones ( ) might become

a source of concern, with regard to a potential shortage of liberties on
Black’s side.
6479

6480
Another line of false eyes (✕) at the top.
6481
6482
6483
empty.
6484
Next page: Solution
6485
left, threatening to connect out.
White will succeed neither by playing a diagonal move at the right, nor by
throwing in at the top, giving atari.
6486
4
6487
5
6
White throws in at 5, giving atari to Black’s single stone above.
White must not play a large knight’s jump from the right instead.
Black 6 captures White’s troublemaker at the top.
6488
7
White’s diagonal move of 7 successfully restricts the growth of Black’s

potential eye space at the right.
6489
9
Black 8 and White 9 are miai. At the top, there is only a false eye for
Black.
6490
11 10
Black 10 and White 11 are miai. Black has only one eye, and so is dead.
6491
6492
Black’s diagonal move at 6 aims at maximising his potential eye space.
6493
A
C
7 B
D
White extends to 7, occupying the miai point.
Black cannot connect at A now.
White’s atari of B will utilise the line of her -stones, capturing Black’s
stones in a short ladder (Black C, White D).
6494
9
10
8
Black 8 is a counter-atari, forcing White to capture at 9.
Black 10 gives atari to White’s two stones, but will end in vain.
6495
11
12
13
At the bottom right, there will be only a false eye for Black.
6496
Next page: Failure
6497
White just played a large knight’s jump from the right.
Black to live.
6498
6499
1
> 1
> 3
> 3
> 1
> 1
> 1
> 6
> 7
> 7
> 6
> 6
> 7
> 7
> 1
> 3
> 3
> 3
2
> 2
> 3
> 5
> 5
> 5
> 3
> 3
> 4
> 5
> 5
> 4
> 5
> 5
> 6
> 7
> 2
6500
> 3
> 5
> 4
> 5
> 7
> 7
3
> 3
> 5
> 3
> 5
5
○●○●○●○●○
> 5
●○●○●○●○●
6
> 6
Next page: Solution
6501
6 A
Black 6 bumps on White’s just-played stone.
Black might consider playing the diagonal move at A instead, which will
result in a change in the order of moves of the sequence shown below.
6502
8
7 9
White extends to 7, stopping Black from getting two eyes quite easily, by
Black 8 forces White to extend to 9.
6503
12 11
10 13
Black 10 blocks White’s path, so White is forced to cut at 11, giving atari
to Black’s just-played stone.
While White is busy with capturing Black’s troublemaker at the right,

finally capturing it with 13, Black is able to play two moves in a row that
serve to solidify his position, starting with the atari at 12.
6504
14
Black 14 gives atari to White’s three stones. Capturing them would mean
one eye for sure for Black.
6505
16
15
Therefore, White connects at 15, saving her three stones.
Black’s connection at 16 brings his group to life.
6506
e
6507
Lessons learned
Reducing your opponent’s potential eye space (●) from the outside might
not be sufficient for success.
6508
Next page: Failure
6509
Black to live.
6510
6511
1
> 1
> 3
> 3
> 1
> 1
> 1
> 6
> 7
> 7
> 6
> 6
> 7
> 7
> 1
> 3
> 3
> 3
2
> 2
> 3
> 5
> 5
> 5
> 3
> 3
> 4
> 5
> 5
> 4
> 5
> 5
> 6
> 7
> 2
6512
> 3
> 5
> 4
> 5
> 7
> 7
3
○●○●○●○●○
> 3
●○●○●○●○●
> 5
> 3
> 5
5
> 5
6
> 6
Next page: Solution
6513
Black descends to 4, blocking White’s further encroachment at the right.
Please note that Black’s potential eye space consists of a long line of
empty points now.
6514
6 5
left.
White should not give atari at the top instead, as this includes a small
territory loss for her.
6515
7
8
6516
12
11 9 10
White’s second placement at 9 forces Black to descend to 10.
Thereafter, White 11 and Black 12 are miai for the life of Black’s group.
Here, White gains a seki in sente, so Black lives without any territory.
6517
n n
6518
Lessons learned
6519
? ?

Next page: Failure
6520
White just played atari from the outside.
Black to live.
6521
6522
1
> 1
> 3
> 3
> 1
> 1
> 1
> 6
> 7
> 7
> 6
> 6
> 7
> 7
> 1
> 3
> 3
> 3
2
> 2
> 3
> 5
> 5
> 5
> 3
> 3
> 4
> 5
> 5
> 4
> 5
> 5
> 6
> 7
> 2
6523
> 3
> 5
> 4
> 5
> 7
> 7
3
> 3
○●○●○●○●○
> 5
●○●○●○●○●
> 3
> 5
5
> 5
6
> 6
Next page: Solution
6524
Black 6 occupies the shape point at the left that White should have taken
beforehand.
6525
7
6526
8
10 9
White’s hane at 9 forces Black to block at 10.
Black has got two eyes, and so lives with territory here.
6527
e
e
6528
Lessons learned
6529
6530
have taken.
Next page: Failure
6531
White just played atari inside Black’s formation.
Black to live.
6532
6533
1
> 1
> 3
> 3
> 1
> 1
> 1
> 6
> 7
> 7
> 6
> 6
> 7
> 7
> 1
> 3
> 3
> 3
2
> 2
> 3
> 5
> 5
> 5
> 3
> 3
> 4
> 5
> 5
> 4
> 5
> 5
> 6
> 7
> 2
6534
> 3
> 5
> 4
> 5
> 7
> 7
3
>3
> 5
○●○●○●○●○
> 3
●○●○●○●○●
> 5
5
> 5
6
> 6
Next page: Solution
6535
6536
5
A
White’s diagonal move of 5 attacks Black’s potential eye space from the
right.
White might consider jumping to A at the left instead.
6537
6
Black occupies the shape point on the bottom left, securing an eye above.
6538
8
7 9
White’s placement at 7 stops Black from getting another eye at the bottom.
But Black’s connection at 8 is sente, forcing White to connect out, by

playing at 9.
6539
10
Black 10 connects at the top, creating his second eye.
6540
e
e
6541
White jumps to 5, attacking Black’s potential eye space at the bottom left.
6542
6
Black’s diagonal move at 6 occupies the miai point, enlarging his potential
eye space at the right.
6543
7 8
White’s placement at 7 attacks Black’s eye shape at the right.
Black descends to 8, capturing White’s just-played stone for an eye.
6544
10
Thereafter, White 9 and Black 10 are miai. White is unable to kill Black’s
group.
6545
e
e
6546
Lessons learned
6547
6548
6549
behind, …
6550
6551
?
?

6552
White to kill.
6553
6554
1
> 1
> 3
> 3
> 1
> 1
> 1
> 6
> 7
> 7
> 6
> 6
> 7
> 7
> 1
> 3
> 3
> 3
2
○●○●○●○●○
> 2
●○●○●○●○●
> 3
> 5
> 5
> 5
> 3
> 3
> 4
> 5
> 5
> 4
> 5
> 5
> 6
6555
> 7
> 2
> 3
> 5
> 4
> 5
> 7
> 7
3
> 3
> 5
> 3
> 5
5
> 5
6
> 6
Next page: Hints
6556
6557
6558
!! !!
!! !!
There are three holes (!!) in Black’s formation, a larger one at the top, and
smaller ones at the right and at the left.
6559
2
Black’s single stones at the top and at the left have only two, respectively
three, liberties, and so are very vulnerable to an attack.
6560
4
4
Black’s single stones at the right have four liberties, and so are unlikely to

Black’s side.
6561
6562
At the left, there is another line of false eyes (✕).

6563
Yet another option for a line of false eyes (✕) at the left.
6564
6565
empty.
6566
Next page: Solution
6567
3 B
White 3 further pushes from above.
White might consider playing hane at A at the left, or giving atari at B at

the top, instead.
However, White must not attach on the second line inside Black’s
6568
formation instead.
A
4
B
Black tries the extension to 4 here, hoping for a consolidation of his

potential eye space on the bottom.
Black might consider connecting at A at the top, or playing at B at the left,

instead.
6569
5 6
White’s placement at 5 occupies the shape point at the right, stopping

Black from getting two eyes quite easily, by occupying the same point.
Black blocks at 6, maximising his potential eye space.
6570
7
8
A
White 7 cuts at the left, destroying Black’s eye shape there.
Descending to A instead will suffer from White’s throw-in at 8,

successfully reducing Black’s potential eye space.
6571
9 10 11
White’s hane at 9 is fatal.
6572
6573
White’s hane at 7 successfully reduces Black’s potential eye space.
6574
8
Black blocks by playing the atari of 8.
6575
A
B
10 9
White extends to 9, creating a dead eye shape inside Black’s formation.
Please note that White must not hastily give atari at A instead.
Black will answer at 9, forcing White to start an uncalled-for ko fight for

the life of Black’s group, by capturing at B.
6576
11
Eventually, White cuts at 11, and Black has only false eyes at the left.
6577
6578
Black 4 immediately blocks at the top, maximising his potential eye space
in that area.
To be continued …
6579
6580
Black 4 occupies the shape point on the bottom left.
To be continued …
6581
6582
White 3 immediately plays hane at the left.
6583
4
6584
5 6
White 5 further pushes at the top.
White might consider giving atari at 6 instead.
Black blocks at 6, maximising his potential eye space.
6585
9
10 7 8
White 7 occupies the central point of the potential dead eye shape inside
Black’s formation.
Black 8 and White 9 are miai; Black will get only one large eye at the
right.
White 10 captures at the left, but …
6586
11
… White cuts at 11, occupying the miai point.
At the left, there are only false eyes for Black, so his group is dead.
6587
6588
Variation for White 5 (White 3 (I))
White 5 gives atari at the top.
6589
6
Black blocks at 6, defending his bottom area.
6590
7 8
White 7 connects at the top, destroying Black’s potential eye at the left.
Black 8 maximises his remaining potential eye space at the bottom right,
but which already has become too small for two eyes.
6591
11 9 10
White’s placement at 9 is fatal.
Black 10 and White 11 are miai, so Black cannot get more than only one
eye.
6592
6593
White 3 immediately gives atari at the top.
6594
5
4
Black 4 defends the bottom area, forcing White to connect at 5.
6595
6
Black 6 solidifies the borders of his position.
6596
8
Black descends to 8, stopping White from connecting to the right.
6597
9
White extends to 9, creating a dead eye shape inside Black’s formation.
6598
11
12 A
10 13
Black’s descent to 10, aiming at maximising his potential eye space, does
not help.
White cuts at 11, making miai of Black 12 and White 13.
The cutting point of A remains, so there will be no seki.
6599
6600
Problem 044 (variation I (variation I))
White to kill.
6601
6602
1
> 1
> 3
> 3
> 1
> 1
> 1
> 6
> 7
> 7
> 6
> 6
> 7
> 7
> 1
> 3
> 3
> 3
2
> 2
>3
> 5
> 5
> 5
> 3
> 3
○●○●○●○●○
> 4
●○●○●○●○●
> 5
> 5
> 4
> 5
> 5
> 6
6603
> 7
> 2
> 3
> 5
> 4
> 5
> 7
> 7
3
> 3
> 5
> 3
> 5
5
> 5
6
> 6
Next page: Hints
6604
Hints 044 (variation I (variation I))
6605
6606
!! !!
There are two holes (!!) in Black’s formation, one at the right and another
one at the left.
6607
3
3 3
Black’s single stones at the left have only three liberties, several of which
6608
6609
Yet another option for a line of false eyes ( , ✕) at the left.

6610
6611
empty.
6612
Next page: Solution
6613
Solution 044 (variation I (variation I))
5 B
White immediately plays the hane of 5 at the left.
White might consider playing at A at the left, or jumping to B on the first

line, instead.
6614
6
6615
7
White 7 occupies the central point of the potential dead eye shape at the
right.
6616
8
Black 8 captures in the corner.
6617
9
White cuts at 9, making sure that there will be only false eyes at the left for
Black.
6618
11 12
10 13
Black has only one eye, and so is dead.
6619
6620
White 5 immediately cuts at the left.
6621
6
Black 6 occupies the vital shape point at the right.
6622
7
However, White’s placement at 7 is fatal.
6623
8
9
Black has no chance of getting an eye at the left.
6624
10
11
Black cannot get a real eye on the first line, so his group is dead.
6625
6626
White 5 occupies the central point of the dead eye shape inside Black’s
formation at the right.
6627
6
Black 6 descends at the left, maximising his potential eye space there.
6628
7
8
White’s move at 7 forces Black to connect at 8.
6629
10
9 11
White extends to 9, and Black cannot stop White from creating a dead eye
shape inside his group.
6630
13
14 12
Black tries the diagonal move at 12.
But White occupies the miai point of 13, forcing White to connect at 14.
6631
15
White 15 creates a decisive cutting point in Black’s formation, so a seki

will not result here.
6632
6633
Problem 044 (variation II (variation I))
White to kill.
6634
6635
1
> 1
> 3
> 3
> 1
> 1
> 1
> 6
> 7
> 7
> 6
> 6
> 7
> 7
> 1
> 3
> 3
> 3
2
> 2
>3
> 5
> 5
> 5
> 3
> 3
> 4
> 5
> 5
○●○●○●○●○
> 4
●○●○●○●○●
> 5
> 5
> 6
6636
> 7
> 2
> 3
> 5
> 4
> 5
> 7
> 7
3
> 3
> 5
> 3
> 5
5
> 5
6
> 6
Next page: Hints
6637
Hints 044 (variation II (variation I))
Black’s potential eye space is already divided into two sections.
6638
?
The single point at the left (?) is not yet a sure eye.
6639
6640
!!
!!
There are two holes (!!) in Black’s formation, one at the top and another
one at the right.
6641
2
Black’s single stone at the top has only two liberties, and so is very
6642
4
4
Black’s single stones at the right have four liberties, and so are unlikely to

Black’s side.
6643
6644
Yet another option for a line of false eyes (✕) at the left.

6645
At the left, there is a dead five-point eye shape (△) available, whose
Next page: Solution
6646
Solution 044 (variation II (variation I))
5 B
White 5 cuts at the left, spoiling Black’s shape in that area.
White might consider descending to A at the left, or giving atari at B at the

top, instead.
However, White will succeed neither by jumping deep into Black’s
6647
formation on the first line, nor by cutting in the centre.
Black 6 blocks at the top, maximising his remaining potential eye space.
Black might consider occupying the vital shape point of A on the bottom
line instead.
6648
7
White 7 occupies the central point of a dead eye shape.
6649
9
8
6650
6651
Black diagonal move of 6 occupies the shape point on the first line.
6652
7
8
White 7 pushes further into Black’s formation, forcing Black to connect at

8.
6653
9
10
11
White cuts at 9, making sure that there will be only a false eye for Black at
the right.
6654
6655
White descends to 5, also stopping Black from getting a real eye at the left.
6656
6
Black’s block at 6 at the top does not help.
6657
9
7 8
White 7 occupies the vital shape point on the bottom, making miai of
Black 8 and White 9.
6658
11
10
At the left, there will be only a false eye for Black.
6659
6660
White 5 further pushes into Black’s formation at the top.
6661
6
Black 6 defends his remaining potential eye space on the bottom.
6662
7
White 7 cuts at the left, preventing any real eye in that area.
6663
8
11 9 10
Black tries his best by connecting at 8, but White’s placement at 9 is fatal.
Black 10 and White 11 are miai, so Black cannot get more than one eye
and is dead.
6664
Next page: Failure
6665
044 Problem (variation II (variation I) – failure I)
White just played inside Black’s formation.
6666
6667
1
> 1
> 3
> 3
> 1
> 1
> 1
> 6
> 7
> 7
> 6
> 6
> 7
> 7
> 1
> 3
> 3
> 3
2
> 2
>3
> 5
○●○●○●○●○
> 5
●○●○●○●○●
> 5
> 3
> 3
> 4
> 5
> 5
> 4
> 5
> 5
> 6
6668
> 7
> 2
> 3
> 5
> 4
> 5
> 7
> 7
3
> 3
> 5
> 3
> 5
5
> 5
6
> 6
Next page: Solution
6669
044 Solution (variation II (variation I) – failure I)
Black 6 connects at the left, occupying one of the vital points of this shape
that White should have taken beforehand.
6670
7 8
White descends to 7, forcing Black to connect at 8.
6671
10
9
White 9 pushes upwards, but Black 10 blocks White’s escape route.
6672
13
11 12
Black’s counter-atari at 12 forces White to capture at 13, starting am

uncalled-for ko fight for the life of Black’s group.
6673
ko
6674
○●○●○●○●○●○
6675
e
e
6676
Lessons learned
6677
Please remember that is needs permanent stones at both ends of a line of
false eyes ( , ✕) to make it work.
6678
Do not allow your opponent to divide their potential eye space.
6679
have taken.
Next page: Failure
6680
044 Problem (variation II (variation I) – failure II)
White just cut in the centre of Black’s formation.
6681
6682
1
> 1
> 3
> 3
> 1
> 1
> 1
> 6
> 7
> 7
> 6
> 6
> 7
> 7
> 1
> 3
> 3
> 3
2
> 2
>3
> 5
> 5
○●○●○●○●○
> 5
●○●○●○●○●
> 3
> 3
> 4
> 5
> 5
> 4
> 5
> 5
> 6
6683
> 7
> 2
> 3
> 5
> 4
> 5
> 7
> 7
3
> 3
> 5
> 3
> 5
5
> 5
6
> 6
Next page: Solution
6684
044 Solution (variation II (variation I) – failure I)
Black 6 connects solidly at the top, stopping White’s stone from

connecting out.
6685
8
White’s descent to 7 creates a bulky eye shape inside Black’s formation at

the right.
6686
11
A B 9 10
White has no other choice but to give atari at 9.
She might insert the forcing sequence of White A, Black B at the left
beforehand, but this will make no difference.
Black’s counter-atari at 10 forces White to capture at 11, starting an

6687
ko
6688
○●○●○●○●○●○
6689
e e
6690
Lessons learned
If your opponent’s potential eye space (●) is already divided into two
sections, …
6691
… do not leave a dead eye shape behind, whose central point is still
unoccupied.
6692
have taken.
Next page: Failure
6693
044 Problem (variation I – failure)
White just attached inside Black’s formation.
6694
6695
1
> 1
> 3
> 3
> 1
> 1
> 1
> 6
> 7
> 7
> 6
> 6
> 7
> 7
> 1
> 3
> 3
> 3
2
> 2
>3
> 5
> 5
> 5
> 3
○●○●○●○●○
> 3
●○●○●○●○●
> 4
> 5
> 5
> 4
> 5
> 5
> 6
6696
> 7
> 2
> 3
> 5
> 4
> 5
> 7
> 7
3
> 3
> 5
> 3
> 5
5
> 5
6
> 6
Next page: Solution
6697
044 Solution (variation I – failure)
Black’s connection at 4 blocks White’s escape route.
6698
6
White descends to 5, creating a bulky shape inside Black’s formation at

the right.
6699
9 7 8
White’s hane at 7 aims at reducing Black’s potential eye space at the left.
Black’s answers at 8, giving atari at White’s just-played stone.
6700
10
11
Black solidly connects at 10.
White gives atari at 11, destroying Black’s potential eye at the right – but
for the time being only.
6701
13
12
Black’s counter-atari at 12 forces White to capture at 13, starting an

6702
ko
6703
○●○●○●○●○●○
6704
e
e
6705
Lessons learned
6706
!! !!
Consider carefully whether you should attack a hole (!!) in your opponents
formation from the inside.
6707
behind, …
6708
6709
White to kill.
6710
6711
1
> 1
> 3
> 3
> 1
> 1
> 1
> 6
> 7
> 7
> 6
> 6
> 7
> 7
> 1
> 3
> 3
> 3
2
> 2
>3
> 5
> 5
> 5
> 3
> 3
> 4
> 5
> 5
> 4
> 5
> 5
> 6
> 7
○●○●○●○●○
6712
> 2
●○●○●○●○●
> 3
> 5
> 4
> 5
> 7
> 7
3
> 3
> 5
> 3
> 5
5
> 5
6
> 6
Next page: Hints
6713
6714
6715
!!
!!
!!
There are two holes (!!) in Black’s formation, a larger one at the right, and
a smaller one at the top.
6716
2
Black’s single stone at the top has two liberties, and so is very vulnerable
to an attack.
6717
4
Black’s single stone at the right has four liberties, and so is unlikely to

Black’s side.
6718
friendly stone on any of the ◇-points.
However, White’s stones might be a bit far away …
6719

6720
Another line of false eyes ( , ✕) at the left.
6721
At the right, there is yet another line of false eyes ( , ✕) available.
6722
empty.
6723
Another dead five-point eye shape (△) at the right that is also entirely
empty.
6724
Next page: Solution
6725
White 3 pushes once more from above.
White must not jump deep into Black’s formation from the right instead.
6726
A
4
Black’s diagonal move at 4 aims at maximising his potential eye space on

the bottom.
6727
5
White’s cut at 5 spoils Black’s shape at the left, making sure that there will
result only false eyes for Black in that area.
6728
6
9
7 8
Black 6 closes the borders of his potential eye space.
White 7 occupies the central point of a dead eye shape at the right.
6729
6730
Black 4 immediately connects at the top.
6731
5
A
White’s diagonal move of 5 decisively reduces Black’s potential eye space

on the bottom.
White might consider jumping to A instead.
6732
8 7
6
Black tries the diagonal move of 6.
White 7 forces Black to connect at 8.
6733
9
White’s cut at 9 makes sure that no real eye will develop for Black at the
left.
6734
6735
White’s jump to 5 occupies the vital shape point on the bottom.
6736
6
Black’s diagonal move at 6 maximises his potential eye shape at the right.
6737
7
A B
White’s cut at 7 destroys Black’s hopes for an eye at the left.
White might consider extending to A, or jumping to B, instead.
6738
9
8
Black 8 and White 9 are miai, so Black’s group is dead.
6739
6740
Variation for White 7 (I) (White 5 (Black 4))
7 A
White extends to 7, threatening to continue at A, successfully connecting

her stones to the right.
6741
9
Black’s descent to 8 blocks White’s escape route, but White’s cut at 9 is

fatal.
Black has only one large eye, and so is dead.
6742
6743
Variation for White 7 (II) (White 5 (Black 4))
White jumps to 7, threatening to connect to the right.
6744
9 8
Black 8 stops White’s flight – but for the time being only.
White connects at 9, creating a dead eye shape inside Black’s formation.
6745
11
12 10
White 11 successfully reduces Black’s potential eye shape, forcing Black

to connect at 12.
6746
13
A
White’s cut at 13 is fatal, as “usual”.
The cutting point of A remains, so there will be no seki. Black’s group has
only one large eye, and so is dead.
6747
Next page: Failure
6748
6749
6750
1
> 1
> 3
> 3
> 1
> 1
> 1
> 6
> 7
> 7
> 6
> 6
> 7
> 7
> 1
> 3
> 3
> 3
2
> 2
> 3
> 5
> 5
> 5
> 3
> 3
> 4
> 5
> 5
> 4
> 5
> 5
> 6
> 7
> 2
6751
○●○●○●○●○
> 3
●○●○●○●○●
> 5
> 4
> 5
> 7
> 7
3
> 3
> 5
> 3
> 5
5
> 5
6
> 6
Next page: Solution
6752
Black plays the jump attachment at 4.
6753
A
5
White 5 gives atari to Black’s just-played stone.
White might consider pushing at A from above instead, but this will be
slightly disadvantageous for her.
6754
6
7
Black gives counter-atari at 6, forcing White to capture at 7.
6755
8
10 9
Black 8 gives atari again, and White is unable to connect.
White extends to 9, after which Black captures at 10, starting the ko fight
for the life of his group.
6756
ko
However, this ko fight is still advantageous for her, because she has some
internal ko threats up her sleeves.
6757
○●○●○●○●○●○
6758
12 11
13
White 11 pushes for the second time from above.
Black has to connect at 12 at the left.
6759
14
15
16
6760
19
17 18
White’s descent to 17 forces Black to connect at 18 in order to keep a real

eye at the left.
6761
20
21
22
6762
23
24
Black ignores White’s ko threat of 23 in order to connect at 24, ending the

ko fight.
Black needed two more valid ko threats than White to win, not only one.
6763
e
e
6764
6765
6
Black 6 solidly connects at the left, securing an eye in that area.
6766
7 8
9
White tries to escape Black’s encirclement, starting with the atari at 7.
Black’s counter-atari forces White to capture at 9.
6767
10
12 11
Black gives atari at 10, and White extends to 11.
Black captures at 12, starting the ko fight for the life of his group.
6768
ko
This is a direct ko.
White has to find the first valid ko threat, but she has an internal one up
her sleeves.
6769
B C
15
13 14 A
White’s descent to 13 at the left forces Black to connect at 14.
Black cannot capture at A instead, ending the ko. The points of B and C at
the right are miai for turning his potential eye into a false one, so White 14
would be a fatal blow.
6770
ko
6771
○●○●○●○●○●○
6772
e
e
6773
Lessons learned
6774
!!
!!
!!

first.
6775
6776
!!
!!
Next page: Failure
6777
Black to live.
6778
6779
1
○●○●○●○●○
> 1
●○●○●○●○●
> 3
> 3
> 1
> 1
> 1
> 6
> 7
> 7
> 6
> 6
> 7
> 7
> 1
> 3
> 3
> 3
2
> 2
> 3
> 5
> 5
> 5
> 3
> 3
> 4
> 5
> 5
> 4
> 5
> 5
> 6
6780
> 7
> 2
> 3
> 5
> 4
> 5
> 7
> 7
3
> 3
> 5
> 3
> 5
5
> 5
6
> 6
Next page: Solution
6781
Black descends to 2 at the right, maximising his potential eye space.
6782
3
White jumps to 3, occupying the shape point on the bottom at the left.
White should not push from above, or play hane at the right, instead.
6783
4
6784
5
6
White’s push at 5 comes too late now.
Black blocks at 6.
6785
7
8
White’s atari at 7 is answered by Black’s solid connection at 8.
6786
12
11 9 10
White’s second placement at 9 forces Black to intercept at 10.
White connects at 11, creating a three-point shape inside Black’s

formation.
But Black is able to connect at 12, living in seki.
6787
n n
6788
Lessons learned
6789
!!
!!
!! !!

first.
6790
behind, …
6791
Next page: Failure
6792
Black to live.
6793
6794
1
> 1
> 3
○●○●○●○●○
> 3
●○●○●○●○●
> 1
> 1
> 1
> 6
> 7
> 7
> 6
> 6
> 7
> 7
> 1
> 3
> 3
> 3
2
> 2
> 3
> 5
> 5
> 5
> 3
> 3
> 4
> 5
> 5
> 4
> 5
> 5
> 6
6795
> 7
> 2
> 3
> 5
> 4
> 5
> 7
> 7
3
> 3
> 5
> 3
> 5
5
> 5
6
> 6
Next page: Solution
6796
Black 4 occupies the shape point at the left.
6797
6 5
6798
7
8
10 9
White 7 pushes further into Black’s formation, but Black’s connection at 8

is sufficient for life.
White is unable to reduce Black’s group to only one eye, so Black lives
with territory.
6799
e
e
6800
Lessons learned
6801
!! !!
!! !!

first.
6802
6803
have taken.
Next page: Failure
6804
Black to live.
6805
6806
1
> 1
○●○●○●○●○
> 3
●○●○●○●○●
> 3
> 1
> 1
> 1
> 6
> 7
> 7
> 6
> 6
> 7
> 7
> 1
> 3
> 3
> 3
2
> 2
> 3
> 5
> 5
> 5
> 3
> 3
> 4
> 5
> 5
> 4
> 5
> 5
> 6
6807
> 7
> 2
> 3
> 5
> 4
> 5
> 7
> 7
3
> 3
> 5
> 3
> 5
5
> 5
6
> 6
Next page: Solution
6808
Black blocks by playing the atari at 4.
6809
5 7
6 8
White 5 and 7 attack Black’s eye space from above, but the connection at
8 secures two eyes for Black.
Again, Black’s group lives with territory.
6810
e
e
6811
Lessons learned
6812
!!
!! !!

first.
6813
6814
behind, …
6815
6816
Next page: Failure
6817
White just jumped into Black’s position from the left.
Black to live.
6818
6819
1
> 1
> 3
> 3
○●○●○●○●○
> 1
●○●○●○●○●
> 1
> 1
> 6
> 7
> 7
> 6
> 6
> 7
> 7
> 1
> 3
> 3
> 3
2
> 2
> 3
> 5
> 5
> 5
> 3
> 3
> 4
> 5
> 5
> 4
> 5
> 5
> 6
6820
> 7
> 2
> 3
> 5
> 4
> 5
> 7
> 7
3
> 3
> 5
> 3
> 5
5
> 5
6
> 6
Next page: Solution
6821
6822
3
White attacks Black’s potential eye space at the right, by playing the
diagonal move at 3.
6823
4
Black blocks by descending to 4.
6824
5 7
6 8
White 5 and 7 reduce Black’s potential eye space from above.
6825
12
11 9 10
White’s second placement at 9 occupies the vital point on the first line.
Black is forced to descend to 10, so White 11 establishes a potential dead

eye shape inside Black’s formation.
However, there is Black’s connection at 12 remaining, securing a seki.

This also means life for his group.
6826
n n
6827
Lessons learned
6828
!!
!!
!! !!

first.
6829
!!
Next page: Failure
6830
Black to live.
6831
6832
1
> 1
> 3
> 3
> 1
○●○●○●○●○
> 1
●○●○●○●○●
> 1
> 6
> 7
> 7
> 6
> 6
> 7
> 7
> 1
> 3
> 3
> 3
2
> 2
> 3
> 5
> 5
> 5
> 3
> 3
> 4
> 5
> 5
> 4
> 5
> 5
> 6
6833
> 7
> 2
> 3
> 5
> 4
> 5
> 7
> 7
3
> 3
> 5
> 3
> 5
5
> 5
6
> 6
Next page: Solution
6834
Black blocks by playing the atari at 2.
6835
3
6836
4
Black 4 solidly connects at the top, securing his eye at the left.
6837
7
8
6 5
White can reduce Black’s territory at bit, by playing at 5 and 7, but she
cannot seriously damage Black’s eye shape at the right.
6838
10
6839
e e
6840
Lessons learned
6841
6842
6843
!!
!!
!! !!

first.
6844
? ?

Next page: Failure
6845
Black to live.
6846
1
> 1
> 3
> 3
> 1
> 1
○●○●○●○●○
> 1
●○●○●○●○●
> 6
> 7
> 7
> 6
> 6
> 7
> 7
> 1
> 3
> 3
> 3
2
> 2
> 3
> 5
> 5
> 5
> 3
> 3
> 4
> 5
> 5
> 4
> 5
> 5
> 6
6847
> 7
> 2
> 3
> 5
> 4
> 5
> 7
> 7
3
> 3
> 5
> 3
> 5
5
> 5
6
> 6
Next page: Solution
6848
Black 2 occupies the shape point on the bottom line at the left.
6849
3
4
Black defends by solidly connecting at 4, securing his eye at the left, but
probably for the time being only.
6850
5
White 5 jumps deep into Black’s formation, occupying the shape point at
the right.
This move threatens Black’s potential eye at the left, as well as connecting
to the right.
To be continued …
6851
6852
Lessons learned
Playing on the outside might not serve to reduce your opponent’s potential
eye space (●).
6853
behind, …
6854
6855
?

Next page: Failure
6856
044 Problem (failure VI – follow up)
Black to live.
6857
1
> 1
> 3
> 3
> 1
> 1
> 1
○●○●○●○●○
> 6
●○●○●○●○●
> 7
> 7
> 6
> 6
> 7
> 7
> 1
> 3
> 3
> 3
2
> 2
> 3
> 5
> 5
> 5
> 3
> 3
> 4
> 5
> 5
> 4
> 5
> 5
> 6
6858
> 7
> 2
> 3
> 5
> 4
> 5
> 7
> 7
3
> 3
> 5
> 3
> 5
5
> 5
6
> 6
Next page: Solution
6859
044 Solution (failure VI – follow up)
Black will succeed neither by playing a jump attachment on the first line,
nor by playing above White’s single stone.
6860
B
A 7
White 7 extends to the right, aiming at connecting with her allies.
White might consider descending to A at the left, or giving atari at B at the

top, instead.
6861
8 11
9 10
Black 8 forces White to extend to 9.
Black 10 blocks the escape route of three white stones, so White has to cut
at 11, giving atari to Black’s just-played stone.
6862
12
13
Black 12 is an atari that forces White to capture at 13.
6863
14
C
B A
Eventually, Black 14 solidly connects at the top, securing his second eye.
Black is the owner of the points at A and B, so C is a real eye.
6864
e
e
6865
White descends to 7 at the left, threatening Black’s potential eye in that

area.
6866
8
Black must take White’s troublemaker inside his formation a liberty.
Black plays 8 from above, preparing for an eye at the top.
6867
10
6868
11
6869
13
12 14
… Black simply connects at 12, securing an eye on the first line.
6870
e
6871
White 7 gives atari at the top.
6872
8
Black 8 immobilises White’s single stone on the first line.
6873
11
9 10 12
White 9 and 10 are miai, as are White 11 and Black 12.
Black has got two eyes, and so is alive.
6874
e
e
Next page: Failure
6875
Black just played a jump attachment on the right.
6876
6877
1
> 1
> 3
> 3
> 1
> 1
> 1
>6
> 7
> 7
○●○●○●○●○
> 6
●○●○●○●○●
> 6
> 7
> 7
> 1
> 3
> 3
> 3
2
> 2
> 3
> 5
> 5
> 5
> 3
> 3
> 4
> 5
> 5
> 4
> 5
> 5
> 6
6878
> 7
> 2
> 3
> 5
> 4
> 5
> 7
> 7
3
> 3
> 5
> 3
> 5
5
> 5
6
> 6
Next page: Solution
6879
White 7 gives atari to Black’s just-played stone.
Please note that White occupied the point that Black should have taken
beforehand.
6880
8
9
Black 8 gives atari from the outside, forcing White to capture at 9.
6881
10
12 11
Black 10 is another atari that White cannot connect. White must extend to
11 instead.
Black 12 captures, starting the ko fight for the life of his group.
6882
ko
6883
e
e
●○●○●○●○●○●
6884
6885
Lessons learned
6886
have taken.
Next page: Failure
6887
Black just played above White’s single stone.
6888
6889
1
> 1
> 3
> 3
> 1
> 1
> 1
>6
> 7
> 7
> 6
○●○●○●○●○
> 6
●○●○●○●○●
> 7
> 7
> 1
> 3
> 3
> 3
2
> 2
> 3
> 5
> 5
> 5
> 3
> 3
> 4
> 5
> 5
> 4
> 5
> 5
> 6
6890
> 7
> 2
> 3
> 5
> 4
> 5
> 7
> 7
3
> 3
> 5
> 3
> 5
5
> 5
6
> 6
Next page: Solution
6891
White 7 jumps to the right on the first line.
White will succeed neither by extending on the first line, nor by playing a
knight’s jump at the right.
6892
8
10 9
Black’s diagonal move at 8 forces White to extend to 9.
Black has to throw in at 10.
6893
11
White captures at 11, starting the ko fight for the life of Black’s group.
6894
ko
This is a direct ko.
Please note that it is Black who has to look for the first valid ko threat
here, not White (as in the previous sub-variation).
6895
○●○●○●○●○●○
6896
e
e
6897
Lessons learned
!!
!!
Playing inside might not properly defend a decisive hole (!!) in your
formation.
Next page: Failure
6898
White just extended on the first line.
Black to live.
6899
6900
1
> 1
> 3
> 3
> 1
> 1
> 1
>6
> 7
> 7
> 6
> 6
> 7
○●○●○●○●○
> 7
●○●○●○●○●
> 1
> 3
> 3
> 3
2
> 2
> 3
> 5
> 5
> 5
> 3
> 3
> 4
> 5
> 5
> 4
> 5
> 5
> 6
6901
> 7
> 2
> 3
> 5
> 4
> 5
> 7
> 7
3
> 3
> 5
> 3
> 5
5
> 5
6
> 6
Next page: Solution
6902
8
9 10
Black’s diagonal move at 8 forces White to extend to 9.
Black 10 blocks White’s escape route to the right.
6903
12
B 11
A
White 11 cuts at the right, securing her three stones on the first line.
Black 12 solidly connects at the top. White can approach neither at A, nor
at B, so Black is alive with two eyes.
6904
13
6905
14
A B
Black solidly connects at 14, and White is unable again to further approach
at A, due to Black B.
6906
e
e
6907
Lessons learned
6908
?
?

Next page: Failure
6909
044 Problem (failure X)
White just played a knight’s jump at the right.
Black to live.
6910
6911
1
> 1
> 3
> 3
> 1
> 1
> 1
>6
> 7
> 7
> 6
> 6
○●○●○●○●○
> 7
●○●○●○●○●
> 7
> 1
> 3
> 3
> 3
2
> 2
> 3
> 5
> 5
> 5
> 3
> 3
> 4
> 5
> 5
> 4
> 5
> 5
> 6
6912
> 7
> 2
> 3
> 5
> 4
> 5
> 7
> 7
3
> 3
> 5
> 3
> 5
5
> 5
6
> 6
Next page: Solution
6913
044 Solution (failure X)
8
9
Black’s solid connection at 8 forces White to extend to 9, connecting her

single stone to the right.
6914
10
A B
Black’s second solid connection at 10 secures life for his group.
White cannot further approach at A, due to Black B, so Black has got two
real eyes.
6915
e
e
6916
Lessons learned
Next page: Failure
6917
044 Problem (failure XI)
White just attached at the top.
Black to live.
6918
1
> 1
> 3
> 3
> 1
> 1
> 1
>6
> 7
> 7
> 6
> 6
> 7
> 7
○●○●○●○●○
> 1
●○●○●○●○●
> 3
> 3
> 3
2
> 2
> 3
> 5
> 5
> 5
> 3
> 3
> 4
> 5
> 5
> 4
> 5
> 5
> 6
6919
> 7
> 2
> 3
> 5
> 4
> 5
> 7
> 7
3
> 3
> 5
> 3
> 5
5
> 5
6
> 6
Next page: Solution
6920
044 Solution (failure XI)
Black defends at 2, immobilising White’s just-played stone.
6921
B C
3
A
White attacks Black’s potential eye space at the right, by playing the
diagonal move at 3.
White might consider jumping to A, or pushing at B, or cutting at C,

instead.
6922
4
Black 4 securely captures White’s single stone below for an eye.
6923
6
White’s cut at 5 forces Black to connect at 6. These moves are miai.
6924
10
9 7 8
At the left, White forces with her moves at 7 and 9, but she cannot stop
Black from securing two eyes for his group, by finally connecting at 10.
6925
e
e
6926
White’s jump to 3 occupies the shape point on the first line at the left.
6927
4
Black’s extension to 4 captures White’s single stone below for an eye.
6928
6
5
White extends to 5 connecting to the left.
But Black’s diagonal move at 6 secures his second eye on the bottom, so
his group is alive.
6929
e
e
6930
White 3 gives atari to Black’s single stone at the top.
6931
4
Black 4 occupies the shape point in the bottom right, securing life for his
group.
6932
6 5
8 7
White forces with 5 and 7, but Black 8 secures an eye on the bottom line.
6933
10 9
6934
e
e
6935
White 3 cuts in the top right, also giving atari to Black’s single stone.
6936
4
Black 4 occupies the shape point in the bottom right, sacrificing his single
stone at the top.
6937
6
5
White cuts at 5, aiming at turning Black’s potential eye into a false one.
Black captures at 6, consolidating his shape at the left.
6938
7
8
White 7 and Black 8 are miai, so White cannot stop Black from getting
two eyes.
6939
e
e
6940
Lessons learned
6941
!!
!!
6942
a long, winding line of empty points (●, “snake”).
6943
behind, …
6944
6945
Excursus
This collection of “Excursus” gives more detailed explanations on several
shape issues.
You might find these additional texts useful, but their study is not
mandatory for understanding the hints, or the course of the solutions.
Therefore, if the topics covered are well known to you, you might skip
these further explanations.
6946
Table of contents
Excursus – Excursus – “Snakes”
Excursus – Excursus – Six live, four die
6947
6948
e e
e e
You have created a “real” single eye point e if, and only if, you are the
“owner” of at least three of its four diagonally adjacent board points (✕).
This means that either you have occupied these points with your own
stones ( ), or your opponent is hindered effectively from occupying these
6949
(◇; e.g. because you could easily capture a corresponding opponent
stone).
○●○●○●○●○●○
However, if your opponent succeeded in taking at least two of the

diagonally adjacent board points ( ), your potential eye point has
vanished, and has been turned into a “false” eye (✕).
6950
< Return to the table of contents >
6951
A B C
In principle, Black needs one connecting move per pair of diagonally

adjacent -stones. Black’s right-hand group has three liberties (●) here
that are directed towards White’s stones, and so is safe from becoming
captured, even if it would be White’s turn. Black has also three cutting
points (A, B and C) to connect.
6952
1
3
6 4 2 5
This is shown explicitly in this diagram.
○●○●○●○●○●○
6953
A B C
However, had Black’s right-hand group one liberty less (●), …
6954
1
5 4 2 3
… it would fall prey to a shortage of liberties if it was White’s turn.
Of course the order of Black’s moves is chosen only for demonstrative

purposes. In a real game, Black would play 2 at 5, and White would
capture only four of Black’s stones with 5 at 2.
6955
One implicit assumption in tsume-go says that the environment outside the
position shown does not have any effect on the problem given.
However, you surely know that this is not the case in real games, and there
might be positions in tsume-go too, where environmental considerations
come into play.
6956
We have already encountered one example; the problem’s setup (Black to
kill) is given in this diagram again.
6957
3
1 2
This diagram repeats the first three moves of the problem’s solution main
line.
6958
9
5
4 8 6 7
The validity of the solution depends on the fact that White’s move at 4
does not contain a real threat, under the assumption that the lower side is
empty.
Black replies by jumping to 5, and White is finally confined with the

exemplary sequence to Black 9.
However, please be very well aware of the fact that all of White’s moves
6959
here might be used as valid ko threats, should there arise a ko fight.
○●○●○●○●○●○
5
4 6
The presence of some white stones on the lower edge ( ) would frustrate
Black’s original line of play.
White would be able to connect her endangered group to the right, by

playing at 4 and at 6.
6960
○●○●○●○●○●○
In principle – in order to make the solution unique – it would be advisable

to add a black stone to the problem’s setup, the -stone at the right, to
prevent White’s escape in this area for sure.
Similar additions in other problems of this book could serve the purpose of
frustrating options for connecting out into the open by means of ko.
6961
However, it is very unlikely that you will find this kind of clarification
with classical tsume-go.
6962
1
3 2
This diagram repeats the first three moves of “001 Problem (failure I)”.
6963
ko
It results a ko formation on the bottom line ( , ko).
6964
Direct ko
From Black’s point of view, this ko fight is a “direct ko”.
5
A
“Direct” means that a player can win this ko fight by ignoring only one
opponent’s ko threat.
Here, Black ignores White’s ko threat of 4 to terminate the ko fight by
6965
simply connecting the -stone that was in atari, with his move at 5.
As a matter of course – in this special problem – Black could have also

finished the ko fight by capturing at A.
●○●○●○●○●○●
Let us assume now that White has played a valid ko threat, which Black
has to answer with his move 5.
6966
ko
6967
Internal ko threats
7 A B
Black has an internal ko threat up his sleeves, the atari of 7 at the left.
White is unable to connect the original ko ( ) at A, due to Black B.
This makes this ko fight – from White’s point of view – quite similar to an
“approach-move ko”, which we will examine later.
6968
8
White has to capture Black’s -stone, with 8.
6969
9
Black 9 captures White’s -stone, and there still is the ko remaining.
6970
ko
6971
10
11
12
White 10 is her second valid ko threat that is answered by Black11.
6972
13
14
White ignores Black’s ko threat of 13 in order to connect the ko at 14.
6973
e
White needed two more valid ko threats ( ) than Black to get a living
shape by winning this ko fight, not only one.
This means that this ko fight was unfavourable for White.
Always look out for internal ko threats, as these do not depend on the rest
of the board.
< Return to the solution >
6974
6975
On the edge, there are several different kinds of capturing a pyramid shape
that consists of four stones, which we will examine here.
If capturing White’s four stones with a move at 1 results in a solidly

connected Black group – as it does here – …
6976
2
… White will have to play at 2 in order to prevent Black from getting two
eyes. This means that Black’s initial move was sente.
○●○●○●○●○●○
6977
1
If Black’s shape is “un-connected” at one side ( ), capturing with Black 1

is sente too.
6978
3 2
White must play at the central point of 2 to prevent Black from getting two
eyes.
However, White’s move threatens to destroy Black’s eye with a move at 3,

so Black will usually play at this point to get at least one eye.
Please note that Black ends in gote here, a fact that might be easily
overlooked.
6979
○●○●○●○●○●○
If Black’s shape is “un-connected” at both sides ( ), capturing four stones

with Black 1 does not provide Black with any eye.
6980
3 2 4
White will occupy the central point of 2, leaving Black’s shape open on
both sides. If Black connects at 3, closing the left side, White will create a
false eye with cutting at 4 at the right, and vice versa.
6981
On the edge, there are several different kinds of capturing a two-stone
group, which we will examine now.
If capturing White’s two stones with a move at 1 results in a solidly

6982
… Black gets a two-point eye. This means that Black’s initial move was
only gote.
○●○●○●○●○●○
6983
1
If Black’s shape is “un-connected” on one side ( ), capturing with Black

1 is sente, but usually, Black will be unable to get an eye.
6984
2
White will throw in at 2, making Black’s eye false.
Please note that there is the imminent danger of taking this result (false
eye) as self-evident without taking the special basic condition into account.
Completely forgetting that capturing these two stones was sente (if the
opponent was forced to prevent an eye in this area) accidentally may lead
to a sudden, and surprising, upset.
6985
○●○●○●○●○●○
If Black’s shape is “un-connected” on both sides ( ), capturing two stones

does not provide Black with an eye.
6986
There is simply no space remaining to create an eye.
6987
On the edge, there are several different kinds of capturing a three-stone
group, which we will examine now.
If capturing White’s three stones with a move at 1 results in a solidly

6988
… Black gets a three-point eye (●). This means that Black’s initial move
was sente.
6989
2
White has to add a stone at 2 to stop Black from getting a living shape, by
playing at the same point.
○●○●○●○●○●○
6990
1
If Black’s shape is “un-connected” on one side ( ), capturing three white

stones with 1 is gote, but will provide Black with an eye for sure.
6991
2 3 e
White’s throw-in at 2, and Black’s move at 3 are miai.
Black will get a one-point eye (e) at least.
○●○●○●○●○●○
6992
1
If Black’s shape is “un-connected” on both sides ( ), capturing three

stones does not provide Black with an eye.
6993
2
3 4
There is simply no space remaining to create an eye, even if White plays

elsewhere with 2.
Black tries his best by connecting at 3, but White’s throw-in at 4 turns his
potential eye into a false one ( ).
However, please do not overlook that Black’s move at 3 is sente,

threatening to create an eye by playing at 4 himself.
6994
6995
This diagram shows “standard” forms of a “dead eye shape”; most of these
of the “bulky” kind. If any of these stone formations got captured, White
could prevent these from turning into two eyes by occupying the form’s
vital central point ( ).
6996
Of course it’s also the other way round. If Black wanted to create two eyes
out of these forms (if empty), occupying the central point ( ) is
mandatory for him.
This four-stone formation is also a “dead eye shape”, but – to a certain

extent – an exception to the rule.
If this shape got captured, there is no need to invest another move; it forms
6997
only one eye from the very beginning.
If anything, White would need two moves in a row ( ) to divide this

squarish shape into two.
Please note that there is some danger of confusing the “available eye
space” (stones, and empty points – the latter probably for the time being)
with a “dead eye shape” (stones only). Both are equivalent if, and only if,
the defender will be forced to capture the opponent stones inside.
○●○●○●○●○●○
6998
At first sight, it seems that Black’s eye space consists of the five points
marked.
6999
1
4 2 3
However, in the further course of occupying liberties, Black might try to

survive by taking White’s three stones of the board, …
7000
… leaving the marked area of three points behind.
7001
5
Eventually, White occupies the vital central point, and it is clear that
Black’s group has only one eye, and could be easily taken off the board.
○●○●○●○●○●○
7002
Another example. At first sight, it seems that White’s three stones form
one of the above-mentioned dead eye shapes.
7003
2
A B 3
However, even after White occupied all of Black’s outside liberties, there
are two liberties left inside Black’s formation, A and B.
Black will play neither at A nor at B because this would be self-atari.
White will also refrain from taking any of these points (e.g. A), because
Black will capture White’s group with a move at the other one (e.g. B), …
7004
… leaving an eye space of four points in a row behind that can be easily
divided by Black.
7005
n n
This means that both sides will leave the original position untouched,
resulting in a seki, which is equivalent to Black being alive.
7006
From your real games you will already know one of the main motivations
to add a second stone to a one-stone sacrifice: “Keep your opponent busy.”
A B D
C
In the position at the left, White can finish the issue with a move at A.
7007
In the position at the right, White added a second stone ( ) to her
sacrifice. Black now needs the three moves B, C and D to capture White’s
stones. While Black is busy with doing so, he will be unable to accomplish
another aim.
○●○●○●○●○●○
3
5 4 2
6 1
7
Let’s explain this fact a bit further, using a simple opening pattern in the
7008
corner as example. The time for sacrificing a second stone comes with
White’s atari of 7.
12
14
13
15 8 10
9 11
Black extends to 8, offering another stone for White to capture in the

corner.
While White is busy with her moves from 9 to 15, Black gets several
forcing moves on the outside, from 10 to 14.
7009
16
18 17
Black 16 defends the just created cut on the left edge, and the kikashi of
White 17, Black 18, ends the local standard pattern.
7010
Please note that White – due to Black’s extended sacrifice – played four
moves on the inside ( ), while Black was able to play four moves on the
outside ( ).
○●○●○●○●○●○
7011
9 8
If Black thoughtlessly gives atari from the outside, with his move 8 here,
avoiding the sacrifice of a second stone, White 9 ends the discussion in the
corner.
7012
You will easily realise that Black’s position is inferior here.
○●○●○●○●○●○
7013
In tsume-go, there are two other main reasons for sacrificing a second
stone:
“Destroy your opponent’s eye shape”, and “Make your opponent’s shape
clumsy.”
7014
1
Let’s consider first a white player who does not want to sacrifice a second
stone. Giving atari to the outside with 1, enables Black to capture with 2,
…
7015
e e
… so achieving independent life, with two eyes (e) at the right alone.
○●○●○●○●○●○
7016
1
It will be better for White to sacrifice a second stone, with her move at 1
here.
7017
2 4 3
Black must give atari to the left with 2. White plays 3 on the right, forcing
Black to capture with 4.
7018
Please take notice that Black’s last moves provided him with bulky shape (
).
7019
5
6
White’s throw-in of 5, using the just created empty space on the board,
destroys Black’s hope for a second eye at the right. Capturing this stone
with 6 will not help Black.
7020
Black is left with a false eye ( , ✕), and an even more bulky shape at the
right ( ).
7021
Excursus – “Snakes”
When we think about “snakes”, pictures of long, winding and vivid (as
long as it is not too cold) animals will come to our mind. Some black ( ,
●) and white ( , ○) ones are visualised in the diagram above.
“Long”, “winding”, “vivid” are attributes than could also be used to
7022
describe the eye space of a living group.
In my opinion, “snake” is a very telling term, which has been brought to

my attention by Paul Lalonde.
○●○●○●○●○●○
The position above is an example from Volume 1.
7023
With his move at 1, Black mistakenly threatens to cut at the right.
The “body” of White’s group ( , ○; see the “picture” in the upper right) is
short, bulky and appears quite lazy.
White’s turning move at 2 is the match winner here.
This single move enchanted an inflexible crop of points into a vigorous

snake that escapes her bloodhounds. Probably this picturesque description
7024
will help you to remember this shape.
Do you realise the vivid long “snake” in the upper right ( , ○) that is
winding across the board – and bright smiling? A single move made the
difference between death and life.
○●○●○●○●○●○
This picturesque description also applies when you are turning a bulky
7025
dead eye shape (△) …
… into a living formation with two eyes, by occupying the shape’s central
point.
○●○●○●○●○●○
7026
Just another example of turning a “fat”, immobile species …
7027
1
… into a “slim”, very mobile one.
“Snakes” have a lot in common with comparing bulky vs. linear shapes.
This issue will be discussed in the following excursus.
< Return to the lessons learned >
7028
The kanji that are used in Japan for naming the game of Go – 囲碁 –
“igo”, have the etymological meaning of “enclosure surrounding well –
(by) carefully selected small stone pieces”. This also highlights the
primary aim of the “surrounding game” (a shorter equivalent), which is to
acquire more territory than your opponent.
7029
In reality, you will want to use your stones in the most efficient way, i.e. to
surround as many points as possible with as few stones as possible. This
implies that you will prefer compact, bulky shapes for your territory.
Here, in this diagram, White has built a territory of 12 points in the corner
by using eight of her stones.
+ + + + +
+
Getting 12 points of territory in a linear shape, as shown here, needs the
7030
investment of some more stones (+). In total, White needed 14 stones here;
the lack of efficiency will become evident.
However, this book is about the field of tsume-go, primarily working on

questions of life and death. The amount of territory gained does not matter
at all.
○●○●○●○●○●○
Let us illuminate this decisive difference with some tiny examples.
7031
Here, in this diagram, White has used five of her stones to create a bulky
shape in the corner that consists of four points. However, White has not
created territory of her own because her group is dead.
7032
A
B
It cannot get two eyes, even if White plays first (White A, Black B).
○●○●○●○●○●○
7033
+
White would wish to have invested one more stone (+), here for creating a
linear shape for her eye space, which consists of four points as well, and
now is territory.
7034
A B
White is alive, because the points of A and B are miai for splitting her
shape.
7035
White would not prefer to build a bulky shape of five points with her six
stones, shown here. The fate of White’s group depends on whose turn it is
(and who will take the △-point).
○●○●○●○●○●○
7036
+
Again, White could sleep much better – at the cost of only one additional
stone (+) – if she had established sure five points of territory in a linear,
straight shape.
7037
+
Please note that this surplus seventh stone (+) would be also necessary to
transform White’s bulky five eye space into a living one that is divided
into two parts.
< Return to the “snakes” >
7038
The “centre of three stones” is understood as the point that is occupied by

a one point jump (□) from the central point of three stones in a row ( ).
○●○●○●○●○●○
7039
This vital shape point becomes especially important if the three-stone
group is under heavy pressure and has only three liberties (○) left.
7040
1
White 1 occupies the centre of three stones, defending in good shape.
7041
5
4 3 e 2
If Black attacks at 2, White answers with 3 and 5.
Black tried very hard, but White already secured an eye (e) for her group.
○●○●○●○●○●○
7042
In tsume-go, the centre of three stones is an important shape point that is
related to the eye making potential.
In the diagram above, there are two lines of false eyes ( , ✕) visible,
which share their end point at the centre of White’s three stones above.
7043
1
Black 1 at the centre of three stones is a well-known eye-stealing tesuji.
7044
3 A
2
If White, for example, defends with 2 at the right, Black cuts at 3 at the
left.
Not only has he captured White’s -stone, he also threatens a snap-back

by throwing in at A.
White’s potential for eyes at the left has gone.
○●○●○●○●○●○
7045
1
If White 1 occupies this vital shape point, her group is alive.
This move also defends her cutting point at the left.
7046
2
4 3 5
Here, Black is unable to capture White’s single stone at the left by cutting
at 2.
White simply extends to 3, and there is nothing left that Black could do to
successfully threaten the life of White’s group.
7047
A descent is a strong move for attack, undermining your opponents
position. Its merits for defence are not so clear cut, as we will discuss
below.
White’s three-stone group has five liberties (○).
7048
A 1 B
White 1 is a descent to the second line.
White’s (now) four-stone group has kept all of its initial liberties (○).
Additionally, it gained the two liberties at A and B.
7049
2
However, we will have to take into account that Go is a game for two
players. After Black’s move at 2, White’s group has six liberties (○) left.
The net gain of White’s descent to the second line is one liberty.
7050
A 3
What about White’s descent to the first line, at 3 ?
White’s group kept its original six liberties (○) and got an additional one at
A.
7051
4
This additional liberty, however, will soon disappear after Black’s move at
4.
The net gain of a descent to the edge of the board is zero liberties.
7052
3
5 4
Let’s assume that White did not defend what might be some territory at the
bottom right, but plays 3 elsewhere.
Black 4 threatens to connect to the left, so White is forced to intercept by

descending to 5. Her group has six liberties (○).
7053
6
As usual, we will have to take a final black move into account.
Black 6 reduces the liberty count of White’s group by one, resulting in five
remaining liberties (○) for White’s group.
The net loss of White’s descent to the first line is one liberty.
○●○●○●○●○●○
7054
Matters become even more uncomfortable for White, if we change the
direction of White’s group from vertical to horizontal, and place this group
at the third line of the board.
Again, White’s three-stone group has five liberties (○) in the very
beginning.
7055
A 1
White’s descent to 1 temporarily gains an additional liberty at A.
7056
2
This liberty will disappear soon.
After Black 2, White’s group has five liberties (○) again.
The net gain of White’s descent to the second line is zero liberties.
7057
A 3
White’s second descent to 3 also gains a temporary liberty, at A.
7058
4
After Black’s final move at 4, White’s group is left with its original five
liberties (○).
Again, the net gain of White’s descent to the first line is zero liberties.
7059
3
5 4
If White plays 3 elsewhere, it will result in the same effect as already seen
earlier.
Black 4 forces White to intercept, by descending to 5. But now, this move

does not result in an additional liberty.
7060
6
After Black’s move at 6, White’s group is reduced to only four liberties

(○).
The net loss of White’s descent to the first line is one liberty.
○●○●○●○●○●○
7061
Matters become even worse, if White has to defend a first line territory.
White’s three-stone group is located on the second line, but still has five
liberties (○).
7062
1
White’s descent to 1 keeps the liberty count of her group stable.
7063
2
Black’s reply at 2 occupies one of White’s liberties.
The net loss of White’s descent to the first line is one liberty here.
7064
1
4 2 3
If White plays 1 elsewhere, Black might play hane at 2 from the left.
Let us assume that White’s descent to 3 is necessary to defend her eye

space.
After Black’s final move at 4, White’s group has only three liberties left.
The net loss of White’s descent to the first line is two liberties here. If will
be quite evident that White might suffer from a dramatic shortage of
7065
liberties in similar positions.
A similar effect will arise, if White’s potential territory is open at the edge.
Here, Black played a descent of his own, at , undermining White’s

formation.
White’s three-stone group has five liberties (○), as usual.
7066
1
If White descends to 1, the liberty count of her group remains stable – for
the time being.
7067
2
Black’s hane at 2 reduces the liberties of White’s group to only four.
The net loss of White’s descent to the second line is one liberty.
7068
4 3 2
We will get a similar result after the sequence from Black 2 to Black 4.
Again, the net loss of White’s descent is one liberty.
○●○●○●○●○●○
7069
We will finish this excursus with an example, displayed in the diagram
above.
It’s Black’s turn; he will want to defend his potential territory that is
threatened by White’s attacking descent .
7070
1
Black 1 here is the correct choice for descending.
○●○●○●○●○●○
7071
1
Trying to maximise Black’s territory by descending to 1 at the utmost right

is a mistake.
7072
2
White replies by playing hane at 2, and Black is taken by surprise.
His four-stone group at the right has only two liberties (●) left.
7073
4
3 5
Black is unable to defend his potential territory with the atari of 3.
White 4 gives counter-atari, also cutting Black’s formation apart.
Capturing a white stone with 5 will not benefit Black.
7074
12
6 8 7
10 9 11
White descends to 6 in the corner, leaving Black helpless.
Eventually, White 12 confines Black’s right-hand group that has one

liberty less than White’s one in the corner. Black cannot escape capture.
○●○●○●○●○●○
7075
3
Black is forced to choose the more restrained answer of 3 here.
7076
9 4
7
6 5
8
White’s cut / atari at 4 starts an exemplary sequence.
After Black’s forced connection at 5, White attacks at 6 in the corner.

Black will be unable to capture this white stone.
If – in a real game – White wants to keep sente, she will play 4 at 8.
7077
11
13 12 10 14
Finally, White has reduced Black’s corner territory decisively.
7078
B
A
This diagram shows a “pure” keima. The relationship between White’s

stones is “two points in one direction, one point perpendicular to it”,
similar to the movement of a Knight in Chess (or in the Japanese game of
“Shōgi” = "Japanese Chess), thus the name.
7079
There are two potential cutting points, at A and at B. But cutting this
“clean” position is usually bad for Black, and not recommended.
3 2
1
4
Black 1 cuts at the lower cutting point. Black 3 is a cross-cut, but White
gets a ladder with 4, thereby massively strengthening her position.
7080
4
1
2 3
Black 1 cuts at the upper cutting point, but with a similar result as before.
7081
in order to cut successfully, Black simply needs friendly support nearby,
e.g. at least one of the -stones, which frustrate White’s hopes to get a
ladder in the appropriate direction.
Next page: Excursus – Strike at the waist of a keima
7082
B A
In this diagram, White’s keima is positioned near a very strong black

position ( ).
Again, there are two potential cutting points available (A and B), but Black
should remember that playing too near to his own strength is a waste of
7083
resources.
3
2 1
Black 1 cuts by “striking across” the keima, as far away as possible from
his supporting stones.
But pushing through with White 2 is usually considered to be very bad.

Black cuts with 3, and White’s position is in pieces.
7084
4
3 2
A better option for White is to play her move 2 from the outside, somehow
dodging Black’s cut.
With 4, White gets a certain amount of strength on the outside.
○●○●○●○●○●○
7085
1
However, simply pushing into the keima, with Black 1 here, is considered
vulgar, and usually a bad move.
7086
2 6
3 4
5
White sacrifices with her outside atari of 4, and the diagonal move at 6
provides her with good shape in the centre.
Black has “successfully” cut the keima, but he got nothing more than only
one white stone ( ).
7087
“Under the stones” (= “ishi no shita” in Japanese) is a kind of sacrifice
tesuji, where you offer several of your own stones to become captured in
order to play a decisive move in the space that has become free thereafter.
Usually, this tesuji is quite difficult to realise, as you will have to visualise
the board after some existing stones have disappeared.
7088
Capture under bulky stones
This diagram shows a simple example problem.
Please note the bulky shape of four white stones ( ) at the right.
7089
1
Black starts by cutting at 1.
This move gives atari to two of White’s groups ( ), her two stones above
and the aforementioned bulky four stones at the right.
7090
2
e
Black connects at 2, saving her two stones above.
This move also secures an eye in the corner (e).
7091
3
Black 3 captures four white stones.
7092
This diagram shows the resulting formation.
Black’s just played two stones at the right are not yet solidly connected to
their allies ( ), leaving a cutting point for White to exploit.
Additionally, these two black stones have only two liberties (●).
7093
4
White cuts at 4, giving atari to Black’s two -stones, which cannot escape
capture now.
Please note the free space at the right (△) that leaves enough room for
White 4 to become effective.
7094
5 6
Black 5 is fruitless.
White simply captures at 6.
7095
e 7
e 8
Black gives atari at 7, but White’s connection at 8 secures a living shape

for her group, with two eyes (e).
7096
Capture under winding stones
Another simple problem, with Black’s -stones as starting point for a

winding line of stones.
7097
1
Black starts with adding another stone at 1, giving atari to white’s two
stones at the right.
7098
2
7099
This diagram shows the resulting formation.
White’s four-stone group at the right is not yet solidly connected to their
allies ( ), leaving a cutting point for Black to exploit.
Additionally, these four white stones have only two liberties (○).
7100
3
Black cuts at 3, giving atari to White’s four -stones, which cannot

escape capture now.
Please note the free space at the left (△) that leaves enough room for
Black 3 to become effective.
7101
Eye-stealing under the stones
Finally, this diagram shows a more advanced problem.
White to kill.
7102
1
White starts by occupying the vital shape point of 1 at the left.
7103
2
6 5 3 4
Black 2 aims at maximising his potential eye space at the right.
White’s second placement at 3 forces Black to close another hole in his

encirclement, by descending to 4.
White’s connection at 5 prevents Black from easily dividing his potential

eye space.
Black’s connection at 6 again serves to maximise his potential eye space.
7104
7
A
White’s cut at 7 is the decisive blow.
Black is hindered from giving atari from the left, by playing at A, due to
his shortage of liberties there.
7105
8
9 10
Black 8 is his only remaining option.
White gives counter-atari at 9 in the corner, and Black has to capture four
white stones by playing at 10.
7106
This diagram shows the resulting position.
Problem #2. White to kill.
7107
A 11
White must be on her guard here.
The eye-stealing tesuji of 11 is correct.
Black is unable to divide his potential eye space by playing at A, due to his
shortage of liberties at the left, and so is dead.
○●○●○●○●○●○
7108
11
White’s atari at 11 instead is a mistake, which will suffer from an “under

the stones” tesuji.
7109
13
12
Black gives counter-atari at 12.
White 13 captures five black stones, but …
7110
12
… leaves a cutting point for Black 14 behind.
White’s two -stones are securely captured, and will become Black’s
second eye.
7111
Eight live
White’s group consists of a long line of eight solidly connected stones,

which are located only on the second line.
7112
Black’s stones that confine White’s group are positioned on the second
line ( ), immediately adjacent to White’s stones.
White’s eye shape consists of six points in a row (●), so White is securely
alive.
1 2 A B 4 3
Black forces with 1 at the left and with 3 at the right, but White closes the
borders of her territory with 2 at the left and 4 at the right.
7113
Thereafter, the points of A and of B are miai, so Black has no chance to
stop White from dividing her eye shape.
7114
Six die
White’s group consists of a line of only six solidly connected stones,

Again, White’s group is confined by directly adjacent black stones ( ).
White’s eye shape consists of only four points in a row (●), which is not
7115
sufficient to create two eyes.
1 4 3 2
White has no chance to live, even if she moves first.
White 1 aims at solidifying her potential eye space at the left.
Black’s reply at 2 at the right makes miai of White 3 and Black 4.
White cannot get more than one eye, and so is dead.
7116
Seven is unsettled
White’s group consists of a line of only seven solidly connected stones,

Again, White’s group is confined by directly adjacent black stones ( ).
White’s eye shape consists of only five points in a row (●), which might,
7117
or might not, be sufficient to create two eyes. The fate of White’s group
depends on who’s turn it is.
It is best for White to live by descending to 1; protecting her potential eye

space at the right.
7118
2 3 A B
Black can do nothing more than to reduce White’s territory, by playing

hane at 2 from the left.
White 3 closes the remaining hole in her encirclement, turning her eye
space into a straight line of four empty points.
A and B are miai, so Black has no chance to stop White from dividing her
eye shape.
7119
○●○●○●○●○●○
If it is Black’s turn, he can kill White’s group by playing hane at 1.
7120
2 5 4 3
White 2 closes the borders of her formation at the left, but her remaining
potential eye space will not be sufficient for two eyes.
Black 3 further pushes from the right, making miai of White 4 and Black
5.
7121
6
Capturing two black stones with 6 is fruitless.
7122
7
Black throws in at 7, leaving White with only one eye.
7123
Excursus – Six live, four die
Six live
White’s group consists of a long line of six solidly connected stones,

7124
All of Black’s stones on the “outside” are positioned on the third line.
White’s eye shape consists of four points in a row (●), so White is securely
alive.
1 3
2 A B 4
Black forces with 1 at the left and with 3 at the right, but White closes the
borders of her territory with 2 at the left and 4 at the right.
Thereafter, the points of A and of B are miai, so Black has no chance to
7125
stop White from dividing her eye shape.
○●○●○●○●○●○
B A
Mind the environment!
A black move on the second line at A (two points away) will not affect the
life-and-death status of White’s group, but a black move at B (one point
away) will.
7126
2
3 8 1
4 7 6 5 9 10
White does not respond locally at Black’s move of 1 at the right, as there is
no need to do so.
Black 3 forces at the left, after which Black tries the placement of 5 at the
right.
White 6 closes the border of her formation, forcing Black to occupy the
vital point of 7, preventing the division of her eye space.
7127
White 8 attacks at the right, and White 10 finally captures two black stones
in good shape.
11
12
White has got her second eye at the right.
○●○●○●○●○●○
7128
2
3 8 1
4 7 6 5 9 10
If Black 1 is one point nearer, playing elsewhere with White 2 is a fatal

mistake.
After Black 3 starts his attack at the left, White follows the same sequence
as before.
Here, however, capturing only two stones with her move at 10 will be
fruitless.
7129
11
Black throws in at 11, turning White’s potential eye at the right into a false
one.
White is dead with only one eye.
7130
Four die
White’s group consists of a line of only four solidly connected stones,

White’s eye shape consists of only two points in a row (●), which is not
7131
sufficient to create two eyes.
2 1 4
3 6 5
White has no chance to live, even if she moves first.
White 1 aims at enlarging her potential eye space.
Black’s reply at 2 forces White to close the borders of her formation at the
left, by descending to 3.
7132
Eventually, Black’s block at 4 stops White from enlarging her potential
eye space.
Thereafter, White 5 and Black 6 are miai.
White cannot get more than one eye, and so is dead.
7133
Five is unsettled
White’s group consists of a line of only five solidly connected stones,

White’s eye shape consists of only three points in a row (●), which might,
7134
or might not, be sufficient to create two eyes. The fate of White’s group
depends on who’s turn it is.
White can live by extending to 1; turning her group into a line of six
solidly connected stones.
7135
B A
Mind the environment!
By comparison with “Six live”, we can realise that a black stone at A

(here: three points away) will not affect the life-and-death status of
White’s group, but a black stone at B (here: two points away) will.
○●○●○●○●○●○
7136
1 3
2 5 4
If it is Black’s turn, he can kill White’s group by blocking at 1.
White is unable to successfully enlarge her potential eye space. Eventually,

the placement of Black 5 is fatal, leaving her with only one large eye.
7137
On the edge, there are several different kinds of capturing a pyramid shape
that consists of five stones, which we will examine here.
If capturing White’s five stones with a move at 1 results in a solidly

7138
B
A
… then Black is alive. The points of A and B are miai for dividing his eye
space.
○●○●○●○●○●○
7139
1
If Black’s shape is “un-connected” at one side ( ), capturing five stones

with Black 1 is sente. But …
7140
2
… White is able to occupy the central point of Black’s formation, by

playing at 2, preventing Black from getting two eyes.
7141
4
3
Black 3 and White 4 are miai, so Black cannot get more than only one eye
here.
Please note that Black has an eye for sure here; there is no need to connect
at 3 immediately.
○●○●○●○●○●○
7142
1
If Black’s shape is “un-connected” at both sides ( ), capturing five stones

with Black 1 is gote.
7143
The resulting shape has two lines of false eyes on the bottom ( , ✕).
This means that Black’s maximum potential eye space consists of only
three points (●), which are good only for one eye.
7144
The “1–2–3 principle” says:
“Do not play 1, 2, 3; just play 3.”
The forcing exchange of 1 / 2 might only serve to strengthen your

opponent’s position, but weaken yours.
○●○●○●○●○●○
7145
This diagram shows a simple example position on the edge of the board.
Black just initiated the / exchange.
7146
3
1 2
Black’s descent of 1 to the first line is a mistake.
White immediately defends her territory by blocking at 2.
Black is forced to connect at 3; otherwise, White would cut there,

capturing Black’s just played two stones on the edge.
○●○●○●○●○●○
7147
2
The “1–2–3 principle” tells you to play the original “3” first (this is 1
here).
It is likely that White will play 2 elsewhere, as Black’s solid connection is

gote locally.
7148
A
Please ask yourself whether you would continue by playing 3 at A (the

original 1) now?
7149
3 4
Surely not!
White will defend her territory by descending to 4.
○●○●○●○●○●○
7150
6
5 3 4
In a real game, you will play hane at 3.
The sequence to 6 also ends in gote for White, but her territory has
decreased by two points (4, 6), compared to the previous diagram.
7151
ko
This diagram shows the basic type of a “mannen ko”.
A “mannen ko” is a very special ko position where either player could

initiate a ko fight, but neither player will want to do so. This is because the
player who starts the ko fight will be at a disadvantage, since the other
7152
player will be able to capture the ko first.
○●○●○●○●○●○
1
2
If White ever wants to start the ko fight, she might give atari to Black’s
group, by playing at 1.
However, Black is able to capture the ko in the corner, with 2, and now it
is White who is in atari.
7153
3
By ignoring only one white ko threat (3), Black is able to finish the ko
fight, by capturing at 4.
7154
e
e
●○●○●○●○●○●
7155
1
If Black ever wants to start the ko fight, he would have to capture the ko in
the corner first.
There is no need for White to answer locally.
7156
ko
Black’s initial move results in a position that shows the basic mannen ko
from Black’s point of view.
7157
3
4
Black gives atari at 3, in an attempt to win the semeai.
However, White 4 captures the ko in the corner, and now it is Black who is
in atari.
7158
5
By ignoring only one black ko threat (5), White is able to finish the ko
fight, by capturing all of Black’s stones at 6.
○●○●○●○●○●○
Since neither player might be interested in starting the ko fights displayed

above, the mannen ko is likely to remain on the board for a very long time
(= “ten thousand years”). At the end of a real game, this position will be
7159
considered to be a seki, even if it is left as it is.
However, White has the option to connect at 1, …
7160
n
n
…so turning the position into a “real” seki. And this is the proper way that
is usually chosen in real games, to clarify the position.
Please note that White is not forced to do so.
A mannen ko usually favours the “inner” player who has invested fewer
stones in the position. This player has less to lose by comparison with a
“real” seki.
7161
Therefore, there might be real games, wherein the ko is really fought
before the end of the game, and the mannen ko will not be transformed
into a seki. Please remember this latent threat that is typical for a mannen
ko, and that might become a latent burden throughout the game.
This also implies that – in tsume-go – a mannen ko at the end of the

solution sequence is considered “worse” than a real seki, but “better” than
a real ko.
7162
Approach-move ko
ko
An “approach-move ko” is an unbalanced ko fight, where one side can

terminate the ko in one move, but the other cannot.
7163
The diagram above shows a typical example, with the ko shape in the
corner.
Please note that – outside the ko shape – Black’s group in the corner has
only one liberty (●), while White’s group at the left has two liberties (○).
Black 1 starts the ko fight.
7164
2
Black ignores White’s ko threat of 2 to occupy an outside liberty of

White’s group, by playing the approach-move at 3.
7165
ko
Now, the ko fight has become a direct one.
Both groups that are engaged in this semeai have one liberty left (○, ●).
7166
5
6
Black 5 is his first valid ko threat that is answered by White 5.
7167
8
Black ignores White’s second ko threat of 8 to capture at 9, terminating the

ko fight.
7168
Black needed to ignore two white ko threats ( ), not only one. This is due
to the approach-move of 3 that was necessary to occupy the outside liberty
of White’s group.
Therefore, this kind of ko is called “one-move approach ko”.
●○●○●○●○●○●
7169
5
From White’s point of view, this ko fight was a “direct ko” from the very
beginning.
She is able to win the ko by capturing at 6, after ignoring only one black
ko threat (5).
7170
○●○●○●○●○●○
7171
Two-move approach ko
ko
In this variation, White has two outside liberties (○), so Black will need
two approach-moves to turn this ko fight into a direct one.
From White’s point of view, this ko fight still is a direct one, because
Black’s group has only one outside liberty (●).
7172
1
Black 1 starts the ko fight.
7173
2
Black ignores White’s ko threat of 2 to occupy an outside liberty of

White’s group, by playing the approach-move at 3.
7174
5
6
7175
8
10
Black ignores White’s second ko threat of 8 to occupy the last outside

liberty of White’s group, by playing the approach-move at 8.
7176
11
12
13
7177
14
15
Black ignores White’s third ko threat of 14 to capture at 15, terminating

the ko fight.
7178
To win this ko fight, Black has to ignore three white ko threats ( ) and
additionally must have two more valid ko threats ( ) than White.
Nevertheless, a “two-move approach ko” can be still considered to be a

reasonable fight. Please note that White – in principle – was allowed to
play four move in a row elsewhere.
7179
●○●○●○●○●○●
7180
Three-move approach ko = “no ko”
ko
In this variation, White has three outside liberties (○), so Black will need
three approach-moves to turn this ko fight into a direct one.
From White’s point of view, this ko fight still is a direct one, because
Black’s group has only one outside liberty (●).
7181
To win this ko fight, Black has to ignore four white ko threats ( ) and
additionally must have three more valid ko threats ( ) than White.
It is usually considered impossible that Black will be able to win a “three-

move approach ko”. In a real game, White’s compensation for losing the
ko (in principle five moves in a row elsewhere) will be a too heavy burden.
7182
Please note the saying “A three-move approach ko is no ko.”
7183
Lessons learned
This chapter is a collection of core messages taken from the “Lessons
learned” that can be found in this book.
Please be well aware that these hints are taken only from failure
variations. So it is still your task to find your own way of identifying the
correct lines of tsume-go problems.
7184
Table of contents
1–2–3 principle
Atari
Attack
Capture
Connecting
Cutting points
Dead eye shape
Defence
Eye space
False eyes
Holes
Inside
Knight’s move
Ko
Liberties
Moves
Outside
Sacrifice
Semeai
Snakes
Two areas
7185
Zigzag line
7186
1–2–3 principle
Think twice before initiating a forcing exchange (from the outside) that
might strengthen your opponent’s formation.
Consider carefully whether you might be able to do without (or even later),
playing (one of the options for) your second move first.
However, there is no guarantee that each such point will be really a correct
starting point for the solution sequence.
That alternative option still might be better than your current move, but
nevertheless, not as good as the correct solution.

7187
Atari
Think twice before giving double-atari!
formation.
important stones.
have.
stone / a group of stones that is in atari.
Especially if these stones are arranged at the outskirts of his formation.
These stones might not be necessary for creating a living shape.
Consider carefully whether is might be possible to attack your object of
desire later, but to the same effect.

Do not be surprised if your opponent actually captures one of your stones
that is in atari. Especially if this capture will serve to consolidate the
borders of their formation.
7188
Attack
Consider your own weaknesses carefully before starting an attack on your
opponent’s formation.
Mind your own weaknesses while attacking. These might become the
source of a counter-attack by your opponent.
Do not attack from the direction of your strong side.

Think twice before attacking from the side, where you are very strong, but
your opponent is quite weak. It might be more promising to weaken your
opponent in their stronger area.
Stay away from your own thickness while attacking.
Only slightly attacking still unconnected opponent stones from far away
might not be sufficient for success.
Your opponent might have too much open space left to manoeuvre.
Your attack might fail if your just played move serves only one purpose. If
there is no second threat included that could be applied immediately, your
opponent might be free to consolidate their formation.
Attacking some opponent stones, aiming at strengthening your formation
elsewhere, will fail if your move does not contain an imminent second
threat that could be used immediately.
7189
Capture
Capturing only a dead eye shape does not make sense, if you will be
Capturing only a dead eye shape will not lead to success.
Remember that capturing a dead eye shape is sente locally.
Think twice before capturing a single opponent stone! Especially if this

stone is located on the outskirts of your opponent’s formation.
might result in only a false eye.
Be aware that your opponent will think twice before capturing a single
stone that is positioned on the outskirts of their formation.
Do not be surprised if your opponent actually captures one of your stones

that is in atari. Especially if this capture will serve to consolidate the
borders of their formation.
Remember that capturing two stones on the first line threatens to create an
eye thereafter.
Remember that capturing a dead three-point eye shape means one eye in
gote.
Capturing a four-stone pyramid shape on the bottom is equivalent to an

eye (in gote).
Think twice before threatening to capture a partial group of your opponent,
which is located on the outskirts of their formation.
Especially if these stones are located on the outskirts of your opponent’s
formation.
surprised if your opponent lets you get what you wanted to have.
7190
Take into account that your opponent will save important stones that are in
Do not be surprised if your opponent actually connects some important
stones, which are in imminent danger of being captured.
7191
Connecting
Think twice before connecting a single of your stones that might become
captured by your opponent quite easily.
Think twice before connecting a single stone that is caught in an atari.
Think twice before connecting some of your stones that are caught in an
atari. Especially if these stones are located on the outskirts of your
formation.
stone that is put in atari.
Your opponent will think twice before solidly connecting some
unimportant stones that are in imminent danger of being captured.
have.
Do not be surprised if your opponent actually connects important stones

that are in danger of being captured.
Do not be surprised, if your opponent actually connects one of their groups
that is caught in a double-atari and lets you capture the other one. You
might kill only some unimportant stones, but let the bigger fish bounce of
the hook.
A solid connection might not serve to divide your remaining potential eye
space.
Solidly connecting one of your cutting points might be too slow.
Do not assume that your opponent will solidly connect every threatened
cutting point without thinking.
Do not be taken by surprise if your opponent actually connects an
important cutting point in their formation.
Do not unnecessarily connect some of your stones that are not in imminent
Note the value of the first line for connecting stones.
7192
7193
Cutting points
When threatening an opponent’s cutting point, do not assume that your

opponent will cover his weakness immediately.
When threatening an opponent’s cutting point, do not be surprised when
your opponent covers his real weakness by connecting solidly.
When you have to protect two cutting points in your formation, but cannot
do so simultaneously, do not choose the cutting point on your opponent’s
weaker side.
You will (probably unnecessarily) defend an area where you are already a
bit stronger than in the other one.
Remember that a one-point jump in the centre can be cut easily by your
opponent.
7194
Dead eye shape
Avoid leaving a dead eye shape behind, whose central point is still
unoccupied, and could be taken by your opponent
Capturing only a dead eye shape does not make sense, if you will be
point of a dead eye shape. You might not have enough room outside this
dead eye shape left for getting a second eye.
Do not leave the central point of a dead eye shape to be occupied by your
opponent.
Do not leave a combination of two dead eye shapes behind, whose central
points are still unoccupied.
The central point of a dead eye shape inside your opponent’s formation
often guides you to an important shape point. But do not assume that the
work will be always done with only occupying this point.
Not every central point of every dead eye shape is always a vital point of
the problem. Especially if this potential dead eye shape does not fill your
opponent’s potential eye space completely.
When attacking from the outside, do not leave a dead eye shape behind,
When defending, do not leave a dead eye shape behind, whose central
point is already occupied by your opponent.
Your opponent might not think twice before occupying a dead eye shape’s
central point.
When closing the borders of your formation, do not leave a dead eye space
behind, whose central point is already occupied by your opponent.
Consider carefully whether your potential eye space might be already
filled by a dead eye shape.
Capturing only a dead eye shape will not lead to success.
7195
Remember that capturing a dead eye shape is sente locally.
Remember that establishing a dead eye shape inside your opponent’s
formation will be gote – in the overwhelming majority of cases; and also
that even a dead eye shape is equivalent to one eye. Therefore, doing so
makes senseonly if your opponent does not have any other options left for
gaining another eye.
false eye.
Remember that capturing a dead three-point eye shape means one eye in
gote.
might result in only a false eye.
A dead eye shape that is visible inside your opponent’s formation might
not be critical, as long as its central point is still unoccupied. Your
opponent might benefit from taking this central point.
Aiming at establishing at dead eye shape will not lead to success if you are
unable to occupy all but one point of your opponent’s remaining potential
eye space.
Consider carefully whether a potential dead eye shape fills your
opponent’s potential eye space completely. Otherwise, with several empty
points left, you might be caught by surprise.
Be aware that your opponent will not think twice before occupying that
central point of a potential dead eye shape, separating all the remaining
empty points of their potential eye space from each other.
of a dead eye shape, separating all the remaining empty points of their
potential eye space from each other.
7196
Defence
When consolidating your formation in one place, mind your remaining
weaknesses.
Do not leave your main weaknesses unprotected in an area where your

opponent is very strong on the outside.
Mind the remaining cutting points in your formation.

Do not let your important cutting points undefended.
When defending a cutting point of your own, do not forget about the
remaining lines of false eyes.

captured easily.
7197
Eye space
A current weakness in your encirclement might hinder you from further
enlarging your potential eye space.
navigate in a cramped space. A decisive effect, stopping you from
succeeding, might even originate from unimpressive sources.
Opponent stones on the second line will massively restrict your options for
enlarging your potential eye space in the neighbouring area.
Maximising your potential eye space does not make sense if you are
unable to divide it into two sections thereafter.
When dividing your potential eye space, do not leave a weakness behind
that can be successfully attacked by your opponent in sente.
Consider carefully whether your opponent’s remaining potential eye space

will be sufficient for two eyes.
Only slightly reducing your opponent’s potential eye space might not be
sufficient for success.
Jumping only slightly into your opponent’s formation might not be
sufficient to reduce their potential eye space decisively.
If your move does not contain a second threat, your opponent might still
have sufficient options left for dividing their potential eye space.
Do not force your opponent to divide their potential eye space into two
sections.
Do not let your opponent secure a second section of their potential eye
space.
Do not allow your opponent to divide their potential eye space, if you are
unable to destroy all but one of the resulting sections thereafter.
If you cannot stop your opponent from establishing an eye in one section
of their already divided potential eye space, you will have to destroy the
second section totally.
7198
Not entirely destroying a section of an already divided potential eye space,
but leaving a point behind, might be too gentle to your opponent.
Playing inside the larger part of your opponent’s already divided potential
eye space might not lead to success if your opponent still has sufficient
means available to establish a second eye in the smaller section.
Destroying the smaller section of your opponent’s potential eye space does
not make sense, if the larger section remaining contains sufficient options
for partitioning.
7199
False eyes
Mind the lines of false eyes.
Mind even potential lines of false eyes. You might lose a move while
preventing an eye point from becoming a false one.
eyes to make it work.
Do not let the shared end point of two lines of false eyes become occupied
by your opponent.
When defending a cutting point of your own, do not forget about the
remaining lines of false eyes.
false eye.
7200
Holes
Consider carefully, which hole in your opponent’s encirclement to attack
first.
Mind remaining holes in your formation.

These might become the source of your defeat.
Do not force your opponent to close a hole in their encirclement,

solidifying their formation.
Attacking a hole in your opponent’s encirclement too early might do
nothing more than consolidating your opponent’s formation.
Consider carefully whether you should attack a hole in your opponent’s

Attacking a hole in your opponent’s formation from the inside will fail if
your move does not contain an imminent second threat.
If you attack from the inside – e.g. threatening to connect out – do not be
surprised if your opponent simply closes a hole in their formation,
blocking your escape route and maximising their potential eye space.
Before jumping deed into your opponent’s formation, aiming at destroying
a potential eye, consider carefully your options for connecting out.
Before closing a hole in your formation, carefully consider whether you

are leaving only a dead eye shape behind, whose central point is still open
for your opponent.
Closing a hole in your encirclement might not serve to partition your
remaining potential eye space.
When closing / defending one of two holes in your encirclement, do not

forget the other one.
Before closing one of two holes in your formation in order to solidify your
potential eye space, consider carefully whether your opponent might
successfully utilise the other one.
7201
Closing a hole in your formation that is located on the first line will take
one of your liberties.
Do not close every hole in your encirclement without thinking.
defend the remaining holes in your encirclement. Especially if you are
already quite short of points that could become eye space.
If your potential eye space is quite small, occupying the central point of a
dead eye shape and closing a remaining hole in your encirclement might
become miai.
Playing inside might not properly defend a decisive hole in your
formation.
7202
Inside
Attacking an opponent’s potential eye shape, which consists of a long line
of empty points, from the inside might fail, due to the sheer length of that
line alone.
Playing inside your opponent’s formation might not serve to reduce the
size of their potential eye space.
Remember that with placing an own stone inside your formation you are
reducing your potential eye space by one point.
Before playing inside your own formation – reducing your potential eye
space by one point – consider carefully whether you will leave a dead eye
shape behind, whose central point is still unoccupied.
Before playing inside, aiming at creating a dead eye shape, consider

carefully whether there might be another area left, which might have
sufficient potential for becoming another eye of your opponent’s group.
Carefully consider the eye-making potential when defending your cutting

points inside your formation.
Consider carefully whether you really defended a vital cutting point inside
your formation in only one move.
Do not let your opponent defend a central cutting point inside their
formation.
Only threatening an opponent’s cutting point from the inside might not
lead to success.
When attacking inside, do not be surprised if your opponent closes one of

the holes in their formation, maximising their potential eye space.
If you attack from the inside – threatening to connect out – do not be
surprised if your opponent simply closes a hole in their formation,
blocking your escape route.
Playing inside might not properly defend a decisive hole in your

formation.
7203
Playing inside your opponent’s formation – in order to destroy their
options for dividing the larger section of their potential eye space – might
not lead to success if your opponent still has sufficient means available to
establish a second eye in the smaller section.
7204
Knight’s move
Cutting into a large knight’s jump that is near the edge of the board will
not serve to destroy that connection successfully, if you do not have any
support in the neighbouring areas.
A large knight’s jump connection to the first line might be broken, due to a
shortage of liberties on one of its sides.
7205
Ko
Before starting a ko fight, consider carefully whether there might be issues
available that could be addressed by you in order to weaken your
opponent’s position. Especially if your opponent is able to capture the ko
first.
Do not start a ko fight too early. You might need more valid ko threats to
win than really necessary.

shape, forcing you to start an uncalled-for ko fight.
Do not allow your opponent to create a ko shape for defence.
Do not allow your opponent to establish a ko shape for attack.
Do not play a forcing move from the outside instead of capturing a ko.
You might lose internal ko threats unnecessarily.
Do not let your opponent create a series of nested ko shapes. You will
have to ignore two ko threats to win the ko fight, instead of only one.
In a semeai, do not let your opponent utilise a ko shape for creating an
approach move issue on your side.
7206
Liberties
Descending to the first line might not serve to increase your liberties. Your
partial group might be as vulnerable as it has been before.
partial semeai.
Consider carefully the liberty count of your groups that are used for attack.
Mind the liberty count of groups that you want to support.
vulnerable to an attack. Especially if some of these liberties are shared,
you might suffer from a sudden shortage of liberties.
(Re-) placing a stone on the second line, after having captured some
opponent stones inside your formation, might result in two liberties only,
making this stone very vulnerable to an attack.
7207
Moves
Avoid further strengthening your already strong stones.
Consider strengthening some of your weak stones instead.
have.
Do not take it for granted that your opponent will answer every of your
moves locally.
have taken.
Not every point of every line of symmetry is always a vital point of the
problem that should be taken without thinking.
Playing a diagonal move for escape might be much too slow.
Your opponent will win, if there are three independent options remaining
for creating an eye after your initial move. You will only be able to destroy
one of these, simply because it’s your opponent’s turn now.
Do not let your opponent complete a line of eight stones on the second
line, equivalent to six empty points on the first line.
7208
Outside
potential eye space decisively. Especially if that potential eye space is
already divided into two sections, and your attack addresses only one of
these.
Before reducing from the outside, consider carefully whether your

opponent’s remaining potential eye space might be sufficient for building
an eye.
Only slightly reducing the larger section of your opponent’s already
divided potential eye space from the outside might not be sufficient for
success.
their potential eye space.
potential eye space into a long winding line of empty points (“snake”).
When reducing from the outside, do not leave a dead eye shape for your
opponent behind, whose central point is still unoccupied.
When defending on the outside, do not leave a dead eye shape behind,
When playing on the outside, carefully consider whether you might be
leaving a potential dead eye shape behind inside, whose central point is
already occupied by your opponent.
7209
Sacrifice
eye space after your just-played stone got captured by your opponent.
It is not always correct to sacrifice two stones, instead of only one.
Sacrificing three stones for an opponent’s eye will result in sente for the
attacker.
Sacrificing stones for an eye might leave the defender unaffected, as long
as there are two independent options remaining for creating a second eye.
7210
Semeai
partial semeai.
Consider the liberty count of your own stones carefully. Capturing the
central stone of a line of false eyes alone might result in an uncalled-for
snap-back.
7211
Snakes
to turn (parts of) their potential eye space into a long line of points
(“snake”) that could be divided quite easily.
potential eye space into a long winding line of empty points (“snake”).
Do not let your opponent solidify the borders of their formation, so that
their potential eye space is filled by a long winding line of points
(“snake”).
sections, one of which being a long winding line of empty points
(“snake”).
space into a long winding line of (empty) points (“snake”).
7212
Two areas
potential eye space decisively. Especially if that potential eye space is
already divided into two sections, and your attack addresses only one of
these.
When your opponent’s potential eye space is already divided into two,
destroying only the smaller part does not make sense, if the remaining
larger part alone might be sufficient for creating two eyes.
When your opponent’s potential eye space is already divided into two
parts, reducing the larger section to only one eye is fruitless, as long as you
cannot also destroy your opponent’s potential eye in the second one
thereafter.
If your opponent’s potential eye space is already divided into two sections,
do not leave a dead eye shape behind, whose central point is still
unoccupied.
Do not leave a combination of two dead eye shapes behind, whose central
points are still unoccupied.
Do not leave a dead eye shape behind, in one of two sections of your
opponent’s potential eye space, whose central point is still unoccupied.
You might be unable to occupy this central point successfully.
7213
Zigzag line
Remember that connecting stones out that are arranged on a zigzag line
Do not assume that this effect is strictly limited to the edge of the board.

line of stones successfully.
Connecting groups that are diagonally adjacent to each other might fail,
7214
References
You will find many more references to printed versions of “Gengen
Gokyō” at Sensei’s Library.
Hashimoto Utarō 9p:

“Gengen Gokyō”
Sankaidō, 1979, ISBN 4–381–00570–8
Cho Hye-yeon 9p:

“Baduk Classic: The Profound and Mysterious”
CJ E&M, 2014, ISBN 979–11–85635–08–8
John Fairbairn:
“The Gateway to All Marvels”
SmartGo Books, 2012
7215
My books
The most difficult problem ever: Igo Hatsuyōron 120
7216
The most difficult of all Go problems, created by Inoue Dosetsu Inseki
(1646 – 1719), has still not been solved by professional Go players. The
long-standing collaboration of three amateurs from Germany and the
United Kingdom has now found the answer!
This book celebrates the problem-collection’s 300th anniversary and is the

most comprehensive collection of information about this stunning
problem. The book discusses what the authors believe to be the solution to
7217
the problem, including an in-depth treatment of the failed lines. All move
sequences are explained in great detail. The same is true for the additional
work on theoretical issues that are fundamental to the problem (e.g.
hanezeki, approach-move liberties, and ko).
English, German
SmartGo Books, 2013
$9.99; 805 pages; 1 problem
7218
Igo Hatsuyōron 120 – An Elephant in Slices
7219
The most difficult of all Go problems, created by Inoue Dosetsu Inseki
(1646 – 1719), has still not been solved by professional Go players.
“How do you eat an elephant?” is the usual management consultant’s reply

when being asked how to manage a huge project.
This book presents this difficult problem in 120 slices. Each aspect of Igo
Hatsuyōron 120 is explained using relatively simple individual problems,
7220
so you can understand the entire puzzle.
Enjoy a journey through time — look over the shoulder of Dosetsu and get
a picture of how he composed his masterpiece.
SmartGo Books, 2015

$6.99; 484 pages; 121 problems
7221
Igo Hatsuyōron 120 – Below the surface of most difficult problem
ever
Igo Hatsuyōron is the most difficult of the classical books on tsume go.
This problem collection was compiled in 1713 by Dosetsu Inseki, the third
head of the Inoue Go School, and was designed for the training of the
highest calibre students at the school. It was kept secret from all but a few
of them, who studied the book under the direct supervision of the Inoue.
183 problems (of estimated more than 1,500) have survived to modern
times. Unfortunately, all others were lost in fire.
Among these the most difficult is #120, widely believed to be the most
difficult Go problem ever created, which has still not been solved by
professional Go players.
The long standing collaboration of three amateurs, from Germany, and the
United Kingdom, has found the answer!
Get the whole story in two volumes. Over 1,100 pages in the hardcover
edition!
Published in 2015.
7222
– Our solution to the problem.
– Explains the general structure of the problem in large detail.
– Contains a large number of variations.
608 pages
Buy with Lulu.com; € 20.96 (+ tax)
Read on our website
7223
– The professionals' solution to the problem.
– Contains all the variations that are known to us.
– Gives deep insights into the ups, and downs, of our research.
– Explains several structural elements of the problem in great detail.
496 pages
Buy with Lulu.com; € 18.72 (+ tax)
7224
Read on our website
7225
Tsume-Go Strategy 1 – Learn to Recognize Vital Points in Go
Problems
Did you ever complain about Go problems that are much too difficult for
you to solve? And probably lost courage? Inoue Dōsetsu Inseki’s advice
— written down over 300 years ago — is to study shape. This book helps
you do that and overcome your current weakness in the beautiful field of
7226
tsume-go.
Study over 300 problems — based on 47 corner patterns — that are

analyzed in great detail. Absorb numerous hints that direct your gaze to
previously unrecognized vital shape points.
This book tries a novel approach in offering an important intermediate step

between the main problem diagrams and the respective solutions.
Alternative approaches as well as failures are presented as separate
problems to be solved individually.
This book is the predecessor of “Tsume-Go Strategy 2”, and can be

studied independently.
SmartGo Books, 2015

$9.99; 1,304 pages; 314 problems
7227
About Go Books
Whether you’re just learning to play or look to deepen your skills, Go
Books has you covered. With over 100 books by all the main English-
language publishers, painstakingly converted to digital format, Go Books
will take your game to the next level. This is the way Go books were
meant to be read.
Please see all the books at gobooks.com, and read about apps and ePubs at
gobooks.com/devices.html.
We welcome your suggestions and feedback at books@gobooks.com.
Go Books is created by Smart Go, and is just one of several acclaimed

SmartGo apps.
For up-to-date SmartGo info, we encourage you to follow @smartgo and

@gobooks on Twitter.
7228
Table of Contents
Tsume-Go Strategy 2 2
Copyright Page 5
Introduction 6
Contents 9
Legend: Important shape points and further points of
30
interest
Problems 74
Problem 001 75
Problem 002 208
Problem 003 323
Problem 004 409
Problem 005 531
Problem 006 629
Problem 007 721
Problem 008 893
Problem 009 946
Problem 010 984
Problem 011 1118
Problem 012 1213
Problem 013 1395
Problem 014 1507
Problem 015 1592
Problem 016 1676
Problem 017 1748
Problem 018 1877
Problem 019 2237
Problem 020 2276
7229
Problem 021 2381
Problem 022 2432
Problem 023 2500
Problem 024 2759
Problem 025 2843
Problem 026 3013
Problem 027 3126
Problem 028 3246
Problem 029 3403
Problem 030 3466
Problem 031 3665
Problem 032 4016
Problem 033 4259
Problem 034 4381
Problem 035 4565
Problem 036 4656
Problem 037 4839
Problem 038 5003
Problem 039 5341
Problem 040 5444
Problem 041 5600
Problem 042 5808
Problem 043 6226
Problem 044 6449
Excursus 6946
Excursus – Real eyes vs. false eyes 6949
Excursus – Cutting points reduce your options for connecting out 6952
Excursus – All stones are shown that might affect the solution 6956
Excursus – Ko fights (I) 6963
Excursus – Capturing a four-stone pyramid shape on the edge 6976
7230
Excursus – Capturing two stones on the edge 6982
Excursus – Capturing three stones on the edge 6988
Excursus – Dead eye shapes 6996
Excursus – Adding a second stone for sacrifice 7007
Excursus – “Snakes” 7022
Excursus – Linear shapes vs. bulky shapes 7029
Excursus – The centre of three stones 7039
Excursus – Troubles with descending towards the edge 7048
Excursus – Cutting a keima (knight’s move) 7079
Excursus – Strike at the waist of a keima 7083
Excursus – Under the stones 7088
Excursus – Eight live, six die 7112
Excursus – Six live, four die 7124
Excursus – Capturing five stones in a pyramid shape on the edge 7138
Excursus – The 1–2–3 principle 7145
Excursus – Mannen ko (ten thousand year ko) 7152
Excursus – Ko fights (II) 7163
Lessons learned 7184
References 7215
My books 7216
About Go Books 7228
7231

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Tsume-Go Strategy 2

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This ePub is provided without Digital Rights Management (DRM),

allowing you to read it on your ePub reader of choice. We trust that

This ePub includes problem diagrams. If your ePub reader supports

To make sure the solution diagram of a problem is hidden, switch to a

Learn to Recognize Vital Points in Go Problems

This book tries a novel approach in offering an important intermediate step

This volume is a successor of “Tsume-Go Strategy” (Volume 1), but it can

© 2016, Thomas Redecker, Berlin. All rights reserved.

“The problems are too difficult!”

… reads a typical complaint which occasionally accompanied the solution

For most of the problems in question these comments were quite

Over a long period of time I thought about a suitable kind of presentation

However, I am firmly convinced that even double-digit Kyū players will

And be seriously warned: There is nothing available like an “easy-to-

Berlin, August 2016

Problem 001 Problem 002 Problem 003

Excursus – Real eyes vs. false eyes

Excursus – Cutting points reduce your options for connecting out

Excursus – Ko fights (I)

Excursus – Capturing a four-stone pyramid shape on the edge

Excursus – Capturing two stones on the edge

Excursus – Capturing three stones on the edge

Excursus – Dead eye shapes

Excursus – Adding a second stone for sacrifice

Excursus – Excursus – “Snakes”

Excursus – Linear shapes vs. bulky shapes

Excursus – The centre of three stones

Excursus – Troubles with descending towards the edge

Excursus – Cutting a keima (knight’s move)

Excursus – Strike at the waist of a keima

Excursus – Under the stones

Excursus – Eight live, six die

Excursus – Excursus – Six live, four die

Excursus – Capturing five stones in a pyramid shape on the edge

Excursus – The 1–2–3 principle

Excursus – Mannen ko (ten thousand year ko)

Dead eye shape

“1” / “2” / “3” / “4” / “5”

Gaps in the middle of an encirclement are also marked with “!!”.

1 start main line

Please note that we display “branching moves” of a superordinate level

Text in bold font refers to a problem (mainly failure diagrams).

Text in normal font refers to a variation.

Losing the initiative. A move which need not be answered.

Initiative. A move which is answered.

A skilful move that is the best play in a local position.

The field of “Life & Death” problems.

< Go to the solution >

< Go to the next problem >

- When tapping on a “correct” solution point, the respective stone will be

This is useful for two reasons:

Next column: Variation tree

Next page: Hints

At the top, there is one sure eye (e) for White.

< Excursus – Real eyes vs. false eyes >

At the right, there is a hole (!!) in White’s encirclement, giving Black

< Return to the problem >

Next page: Solution

White descends to 2, blocking Black’s escape route to the right.

Black uses his second option and cuts at 3.

Black’s last move is also an atari, so White connects at 4.

Black 5 descends on the outside, simultaneously occupying an important

Black might consider giving atari at C instead.

< Return to the hints >