Going from Expert to Master

Question

What is the difference in mindset or technique that really makes the difference between an expert and a master? I am trying to decide whether or not to start playing again and try to make that leap.

Answer 1

To become a master from expert, I think having a mentor is the most important factor. I know personaly a chess player who got elo rating from 2000 to 2300 with a well-known mentor from Switzerland.

Moreover, I think knowing theory and playing against very good players (2400+) can really help.

Answer 2

I once wrote a blog post about becoming a master; several themes seemed crucial:

• Playing regularly in tournaments
• Doing it while you are young
• Keeping in mind that the effort required per 100 points of ELO increases the higher you go. That applies "across the board" - endgames, openings, etc.
• Having a "mentor" (not the same as "coach")

If you have not played for while though, you might first want to make sure you are still as good as you were before stopping.

Answer 3

I would definitely invest in a chess teacher, it will be worth your while, If you are poor this doesn't work, sorry.