What is Annotation?

Annotation is written commentary added to the moves of a game, providing explanatory, evaluative, or instructional content. Annotations may include verbal commentary, symbolic notation, and alternative variations. Standard annotation symbols include:\n• ! — good move\n• !! — brilliant move\n• ? — mistake\n• ?? — blunder\n• !? — interesting or speculative move\n• ?! — dubious move\n• + — check\n• # — checkmate\n\nAnnotation is an essential tool for chess study, allowing players to understand the reasoning behind moves and learn from both their own games and those of masters.