Smothered Mate Chess Worksheet Generator

Smothered Mate – Worksheet Overview

Smothered Mate is widely considered the most beautiful checkmate in chess. It occurs when a Knight delivers checkmate to a King that is completely surrounded ('smothered') by its own friendly pieces—usually pawns, but sometimes heavier pieces. Because the Knight is the only piece that can jump over others, it is the only piece capable of delivering this mate. The classic version, known as 'Philidor's Legacy,' involves a brilliant Queen sacrifice to force the opponent to block their own King, setting up the Knight for the final blow. These customizable worksheets are a favorite among students and teachers alike, offering a mix of simple one-move smothers and complex sacrifice sequences that delight the imagination.

How to Create Smothered Mate Worksheets

Smothered Mate Worksheet Features

Printing Instructions

• For best results, print the worksheet in portrait orientation on A4 or Letter-size paper.
• Use the “Fit to Page” or “Shrink to Printable Area” setting if your printer has narrow margins.
• Select high-quality or standard print mode to ensure chess diagrams remain clear and easy to read.
• If printing multiple copies for a class or club, use the grayscale option to save ink while keeping diagrams sharp.
• Ensure the solution page is included at the end of the worksheet—this helps students review and self-correct their work.
• For laminated or reusable worksheets, print on thicker stock or laminate the pages so students can solve using markers.
• When printing double-sided, place puzzles on the front and solutions on the back for efficient classroom use.

Smothered Mate FAQs