I'm a patient and experienced chess teacher with 12 years of experience teaching children and adults. My teaching approach is practical and fun. We look at the chess games that you've played, and I teach the fundamentals of chess strategy and tactics based on these games.
I have more than twenty years of tournament experience, and I was awarded the title of First Category player by the United States Chess Federation, along with a rating of 2050 (Expert). I have tournament wins against master-level players rated as high as 2300.
Whether you prefer in-person or online lessons I will work with your schedule to meet your needs. In-person lessons are available in Austin, Texas.
The best way to improve is to regularly play rated games, analyze the games with a strong player, and learn from the books and videos that are well-matched to your skill level. I provide advice on all these resources and have teaching materials prepared if you are interested in spending some time on them.
Please message me here at this site for more information and to chat about your needs and goals.
Overview
Hired 28 times
Background checked
1 employee
14 years in business
Business hours
SunClosedMon12:00 pm - 3:00 pm
Payment methods
This pro accepts payments via Cash, Check, PayPal, Square cash app, and Venmo.
Services offered
Level of experience
No experience
Beginner
Intermediate
Work location
I travel to my customers
I work remotely (phone or internet)
Projects and media
Projects and media
Reviews
Customers rated this pro highly for professionalism, work quality, and punctuality.
Exceptional 5.0
13 reviews
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Read reviews that mention:
Patrick B.
May 30, 2026
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Hired on Thumbtack
Chris is a really excellent and patient teacher. He really understands the art and sport of chess and meets me where I am as an adult beginner / improver. In addition to being an outstanding teacher, Chris is just a really nice guy. I highly recommend him.
Details: 45 - 64 years old • Beginner • Remotely (phone or internet)
Chess Lessons
Janal D.
Jan 9, 2025
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Hired on Thumbtack
Chris is truly great. I’ve been taking lessons with him for several months and he’s a fantastic educator. He takes his time to review the content, always welcomes questions and makes space for learning challenges while pointing out successes throughout the process. I would definitely recommend him as a chess tutor!
Details: 26 - 44 years old • No experience • At the pro’s location • Remotely (phone or internet)
Chess Lessons
Linda F.
Aug 15, 2024
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Hired on Thumbtack
Working with a tutor involves developing a relationship, which takes time. After working with Chris, I know how to checkmate, and I understand the game much better. Chris is very good at explaining concepts. He always sends puzzles to reinforce what we did in the lesson. As I continue to work with Chris, my confidence in decision making has improved, and my chess score has risen slowly but steadily.
Details: 65 years or older • Intermediate • At the pro’s location • My home, venue, etc. • Remotely (phone or internet)
Chess Lessons
Scott M.
Feb 15, 2020
Chris is an excellent teacher and he's really helped me improve my game. In one lesson he showed me an opening that I used to win against a strong player. We go over games that I've played and he always has helpful suggestions. I highly recommend Chris as a chess teacher.
Srini R.
Feb 24, 2020
Chris taught both my 12 and 9 year olds Chess. His knowledge of the game, together with his passion and patience with kids is the ideal combination to teach children to see and play the game in a structured way.
Chris is very responsive, and offers both online and in-person lessons which we appreciated and used.
I highly recommend Chris as a Chess teacher!
Credentials
Background Check
Christopher Cohen
FAQs
What should the customer know about your pricing (e.g., discounts, fees)?
I give a free one-hour consultation before the lessons begin. If you have played games on chess websites I review the games at no additional cost to assess your skill level.
Most of my students meet once a week, but if you'd like more than one lesson per week I offer a twenty percent discount.
Lesson prices are $40 for a one hour session and $50 for a ninety minute lesson.
My fee includes lessons and materials that I customize to meet your needs. If you have quick questions during the week I reply by ****** at no additional cost.
What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
We chat about your wants and needs, and then I assess your skill level. I have customized lessons and materials prepared, but the best way to improve is to go over games that you've played. I give a free consultation and am happy to answer any questions that you have.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I was awarded the title of First Category player by the United States Chess Federation, and I achieved a rating of 2050 (Expert).
