Algebraic notation (chess)
method for recording and describing the moves in a game of chess
Algebraic notation is the standard method of chess notation, used for recording and describing moves. It is based on a system of coordinates to uniquely identify each square on the board. It is now almost universally used by books, magazines, newspapers and software, and is the only form of notation recognized by FIDE, the international chess governing body.
An early form of algebraic notation was invented by the Syrian player Philipp Stamma in the 18th century. In the 19th century, it came into general use in German chess literature and was subsequently adopted in Russian chess literature. Descriptive notation, based on abbreviated natural language, was generally used in English language chess publications until the 1980s. Similar descriptive systems were in use in Spain and France. A few players still use descriptive notation, but it is no longer recognized by FIDE. Consequently, in FIDE sanctioned games, scoresheets recording the game in any system but algebraic may not be used as evidence in the event of a dispute (for example, whether or not a game can be claimed a draw under the threefold repetition rule).
The term "algebraic notation" may be considered a misnomer, as the system is unrelated to algebra.
Naming the squares
Each square of the board is identified by a unique coordinate pair—a letter and a number—from White's point of view.
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