childhood
Born on 12 August 1913 in Tula, Russian Empire (now Russia).
Learned chess at a young age and quickly developed into a strong player.
His early life was marked by the upheavals of the Russian Revolution and World War I.
education
Studied engineering at the Moscow Institute of Mechanical Engineering, graduating during World War II.
He applied his engineering mindset to chess, developing a systematic approach to the game.
career
One of the strongest Soviet grandmasters of the 1940s and 1950s, and a World Championship Candidate in 1953.
Won the Soviet Championship in 1948 (tied) and was a member of the Soviet Olympiad team.
Known for his deep strategic understanding and his brilliant endgame play.
His book Think Like a Grandmaster (1971) is one of the most influential instructional works ever written, introducing the concept of "candidate moves" and systematic thinking.
Play Like a Grandmaster and Train Like a Grandmaster completed his famous trilogy.
Later became a successful trainer and writer, and served as a Soviet chess official.
stories & anecdotes
Kotov's "candidate moves" method — systematically identifying and evaluating a shortlist of moves — became a standard tool for chess players worldwide.
He was known for his discipline and his methodical approach to preparation.
His books have inspired generations of players, from beginners to grandmasters.
quotes
"The first thing a chess player must learn is to think systematically."
publications
Think Like a Grandmaster (1971) — his most famous work.
Play Like a Grandmaster (1978) — the second volume.
Train Like a Grandmaster (1981) — the third volume.
The Soviet School of Chess (with Mikhail Yudovich) — a classic survey.
Play through Alexander Kotov’s games
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Editorial note: this profile was adapted from supplied research notes. Historical details and attributed quotations should be fact-checked before formal publication.