Accelerate your chess improvement with tips from a self-taught National Master (2100 FIDE)!

I learned more in a few weeks with Minh than in months on my own. Minh is the real deal—2121 FIDE (ID 12420387, Sept 2025), Vietnamese National Master (2023), and FIDE Instructor (2025–26). Minh’s track record is stellar: 2022 Eastern Asia Youth Rapid Champion, 2023 Vietnam U20 Blitz runner-up, 2024 ASEAN+ U20 second runner-up, and joined first at the 2025 Montreal Open—unbeaten with a win and two draws against three GMs. Minh is also ~2700 on chess.com, and the prep shows.

Minh tailors every lesson to my style. Openings are both sound and fresh, built with Lichess studies and ChessBase PGNs. Post-game work uses Stockfish 17 in ChessBase 18, but Minh turns engine lines into clear plans, typical tactics, and endgame themes I can actually use. Minh also sets training games (often with other students) and gives concrete advice on what to study and which tournaments to play.

Minh is professional, friendly, and flexible—online or face-to-face in Toronto, in English or Vietnamese. Prices are negotiable and a free trial may be available. If you want practical, high-level coaching that moves your rating and understanding, Minh is outstanding.

Lại Minh is a passionate and energetic figure who grew up through grassroots competitions, giving him deep insight into playing styles and the challenges semi-professional players face in advancing their level.