What is Algebraic Notation?

Algebraic notation is the standard international system for recording chess moves. Each of the 64 squares on the chessboard is identified by a unique coordinate: a letter (a–h) for the file and a number (1–8) for the rank, with a1 at White's lower-left corner. Pieces are identified by uppercase letters: K (King), Q (Queen), R (Rook), B (Bishop), N (Knight); pawn moves omit the letter. A move is recorded as the piece letter followed by the destination square (e.g. Nf3). Captures use "x" (e.g. Bxe5), check is indicated by "+", and checkmate by "#". Castling is recorded as O-O (kingside) or O-O-O (queenside). Promotion is shown with "=" (e.g. e8=Q). See also annotation for recording evaluative symbols.