If you're new to the game of chess, knowing the best starting moves can be crucial to gaining an early advantage. Our expert coaches recommend starting with either 1.e4 or 1.d4 as your opening move, as these are the most popular and flexible options. From there, our guide offers a variety of recommended responses for both white and black pieces, including the Sicilian Defense, the Queen's Gambit, and the King's Indian Defense. With our guide, you'll be able to confidently navigate the opening and set yourself up for success in the rest of the game. Start improving your game today with Study Chess Pro’s guides to the best starting moves in chess.