Spadework is a collection of chess puzzles focusing on coordinating your pieces. Every position has a two-move solution.
In chess, using one move to set up or allow another move is often referred to as preparation. This strategic concept involves making a move that improves the position or readiness for a subsequent, more significant move, such as a pawn break, piece sacrifice, or tactical combination. For example, a player might move a piece to a more active square or clear a path for another piece to advance, thereby creating favorable conditions for a future action.
This idea is closely related to concepts like tempo—where a player gains time by making a useful move that also advances their position—and prophylaxis, which involves preventing the opponent from executing a planned move. Preparation is a fundamental aspect of both opening and middlegame strategy, allowing players to build pressure or create opportunities without immediately committing to a direct attack or exchange.
Additionally, in some contexts, such as when a move sets up a tactical sequence, it may be described as a quiet move or waiting move, especially if it appears passive but is actually laying the groundwork for a future initiative.