Discovered Check

A discovered check occurs when one piece moves out of the way, revealing a checking line from another piece. The key feature is that the checking piece does not move — the check is revealed.

Core Idea

In a discovered check:

• One piece moves
• Another piece gives check
• The king is forced to respond immediately

Because the king is in check, the opponent has no freedom to ignore the threat.

Why Discovered Checks Are Powerful

Discovered checks are strong because they:

• Create forcing positions
• Limit defensive options
• Often win material or tempo
• Frequently lead to follow-up tactics

Unlike ordinary attacks, the defender must respond to the check first.

Common Pieces Involved

Discovered checks usually involve:

• Rooks or bishops on open files or diagonals
• A piece (often a knight or rook) moving with tempo
• A king with limited escape squares

Typical Defensive Responses

The opponent can usually only:

1. Move the king
2. Capture the checking piece (if possible)
3. Block the checking line

If these options are restricted, the discovered check becomes decisive.

Practical Tips

• Always ask what happens after the check
• Look for pieces aligned with the king
• Consider whether a pin or overload removes defenses
• Don’t play a discovered check unless you’ve calculated the follow-up

Discovered checks are not about giving check — they are about forcing concessions.

Related: discovered-attack-after-check