Benko Chess Club

Test Your Arbiter Knowledge

150 questions on the Laws of Chess, arbiter decisions, tournament practice and Fair Play

How to use the tests

1 Answer the questions before opening the solutions. 2 Compare your answers with the answer key. 3 For every mistake, read the explanation and return to the relevant FIDE rule.

The tests are designed for practical revision: Laws of Chess, rapid/blitz, clocks, illegal moves, draw claims, Swiss pairings, ratings, titles, Fair Play and real tournament situations.

Test #1 – Laws of Chess and Basic Arbiter Decisions

50 questions • For practice: complete the test before opening the solutions. Then check every answer.

1. Who is responsible for ensuring that the FIDE Laws of Chess are observed during a competition?

  1. Only the organizer
  2. The arbiter
  3. The team captain
  4. The players themselves
Show solution

Correct answer: B

The arbiter supervises the application of the rules, the proper conduct of play and Fair Play.

2. The player to move touches one of their own pieces without first saying 'j'adoube'. What must the player do?

  1. May move any piece
  2. Must move the touched piece if a legal move exists
  3. Automatically loses
  4. The opponent chooses the move
Show solution

Correct answer: B

A deliberately touched piece must be moved if a legal move with that piece exists.

3. When may a player adjust a piece on its square?

  1. At any time
  2. Only when the opponent is to move
  3. When it is the player's turn and the intention to adjust is clearly announced beforehand
  4. Only with the spectators' permission
Show solution

Correct answer: C

A player who has the move may adjust a piece after clearly announcing the intention to do so.

4. Castling is legal only if...

  1. the king crosses an attacked square
  2. the king has not previously moved and does not pass through check
  3. the rook moved earlier and returned
  4. the king is currently in check but escapes by castling
Show solution

Correct answer: B

The king and the relevant rook must not previously have moved; the king may not be in check, cross an attacked square or finish in check.

5. When is a move completed in a normal game played with a chess clock?

  1. When the player touches a piece
  2. When the player releases the piece on a square
  3. When the player presses the clock after making the move
  4. When the opponent records the move
Show solution

Correct answer: C

The move is made when the piece is released, but it is completed when the player presses the clock.

6. What is checkmate?

  1. The king is attacked and a defence exists
  2. The king is attacked and there is no legal way to remove the check
  3. The player has no legal move but is not in check
  4. A player loses on time
Show solution

Correct answer: B

Checkmate occurs when the king is in check and no legal move can remove the check.

7. What is stalemate?

  1. The player is in check and has no move
  2. The player is not in check but has no legal move
  3. Both players have no time left
  4. The kings stand next to each other
Show solution

Correct answer: B

Stalemate is a draw: the player to move is not in check and has no legal move.

8. The position K versus K is...

  1. a win for White
  2. a win for Black
  3. a dead position and a draw
  4. played on until a flag falls
Show solution

Correct answer: C

If checkmate is impossible by any sequence of legal moves, the game is drawn because of a dead position.

9. A first completed illegal move in a standard game is penalized by...

  1. immediate loss of the game
  2. adding two minutes to the opponent's time
  3. a warning with no time adjustment
  4. cancelling the game
Show solution

Correct answer: B

After correcting the position, two minutes are added to the opponent's time for the first completed illegal move in a standard game.

10. A second completed illegal move by the same player in a standard game leads to...

  1. another two minutes for the opponent
  2. loss of the game by that player, unless the opponent cannot checkmate by any series of legal moves
  3. restarting the game
  4. an automatic draw
Show solution

Correct answer: B

For a second completed illegal move, the player loses unless the opponent has no possible mating sequence.

11. A player promotes a pawn using an upside-down rook and says it is a queen. The best arbiter practice is to...

  1. always accept it as a queen
  2. stop the clock and provide the proper piece
  3. declare the game lost
  4. allow the opponent to choose the promotion piece
Show solution

Correct answer: B

Promotion must be clear and properly completed. An upside-down rook is still a rook; the arbiter should provide the required piece.

12. An en-passant capture is possible...

  1. whenever two pawns stand next to each other
  2. only on the immediately following move after the opponent's pawn advances two squares from its starting square
  3. at any later time
  4. only in blitz chess
Show solution

Correct answer: B

The right to capture en passant exists only for the immediately following move.

13. A draw offer is correctly made when the player...

  1. offers the draw before moving and immediately presses the clock
  2. makes a move, offers the draw, then presses the clock
  3. speaks to the spectators
  4. offers the draw only to the arbiter
Show solution

Correct answer: B

The correct sequence is: make the move, offer the draw, press the clock.

14. A threefold-repetition claim is valid when the same position has occurred, or will occur, three times with...

  1. the same pieces, the same player to move and the same possible moves
  2. only the same arrangement of pieces
  3. only the same move number
  4. only the same material
Show solution

Correct answer: A

The player to move, the squares occupied by pieces of the same kind and colour, and all possible moves must be the same, including castling and en-passant rights.

15. The 50-move rule may be claimed after 50 moves by each player without...

  1. check or checkmate
  2. a capture or a pawn move
  3. an exchange of queens
  4. a draw offer
Show solution

Correct answer: B

A player may claim a draw after 50 moves by each player without a capture and without a pawn move.

16. The 75-move rule is...

  1. a claim that must be made by a player
  2. an automatic draw, unless the final move results in checkmate
  3. a win for the player with more material
  4. only a recommendation
Show solution

Correct answer: B

After 75 moves by each player without a capture or pawn move, the game is automatically drawn unless the last move delivered checkmate.

17. If both kings stand on adjacent squares so that they attack each other, the position is...

  1. legal
  2. illegal
  3. checkmate
  4. stalemate
Show solution

Correct answer: B

Kings may never stand on adjacent squares where they attack each other.

18. A game is won on time only if the opponent...

  1. has a queen
  2. has a possible sequence of legal moves that can produce checkmate
  3. has more time remaining
  4. has at least one pawn
Show solution

Correct answer: B

A flag fall gives a win only if the opponent can checkmate by some possible series of legal moves.

19. A player runs out of time while the opponent has only a king. The result is...

  1. 0-1
  2. 1-0
  3. a draw
  4. the game is replayed
Show solution

Correct answer: C

A lone king cannot checkmate, so there is no possible mating sequence.

20. In standard chess, a player should record the game...

  1. after every move, clearly and legibly
  2. only if they wish
  3. only for the last 10 moves
  4. only if instructed by the arbiter
Show solution

Correct answer: A

In a standard game, players are required to record their moves except in the specific exceptions provided by the Laws.

21. When a player has less than five minutes left and no increment of at least 30 seconds per move, recording the moves...

  1. always remains compulsory
  2. may cease under the Laws
  3. is done by the opponent instead
  4. is done by the arbiter only for White
Show solution

Correct answer: B

In the relevant time-trouble situation without sufficient increment, the player may be excused from recording moves.

22. A chess clock should be pressed...

  1. with the same hand used to make the move
  2. with the other hand
  3. with a pen
  4. when the opponent says so
Show solution

Correct answer: A

The Laws require the move and the clock press to be made with the same hand.

23. A player keeps a finger on the clock button before making a move. This is...

  1. permitted
  2. improper use of the clock
  3. compulsory
  4. a sign of resignation
Show solution

Correct answer: B

A player may not keep a finger on the clock or hover over it before moving.

24. In a dispute, the arbiter's role is to...

  1. support the weaker player
  2. decide on the basis of the rules, evidence and objectivity
  3. always accept the older player's version
  4. ask the spectators to vote
Show solution

Correct answer: B

The arbiter must remain objective and impartial.

25. If a player wants to claim that the opponent made an illegal move, the player should...

  1. stop the clock and summon the arbiter
  2. put the piece back personally
  3. continue and always claim later
  4. ask the spectators
Show solution

Correct answer: A

For a claim, the player stops the clock and summons the arbiter.

26. A mobile phone ringing during a game is normally dealt with according to...

  1. the arbiter's mood
  2. the FIDE Laws and the competition regulations
  3. an agreement between the players
  4. the number of spectators
Show solution

Correct answer: B

Electronic devices and the applicable penalties must be governed by the Laws and the event regulations.

27. What is the most appropriate sporting conduct by an arbiter when cheating is suspected?

  1. Publicly accuse the player
  2. Follow the procedure and maintain discretion
  3. Immediately record a loss without checking
  4. Ask the opponent what penalty they want
Show solution

Correct answer: B

Fair Play cases require careful procedure, evidence and discretion.

28. A rapid game is one in which the total time per player, including the increment calculated for 60 moves, is...

  1. less than 10 minutes
  2. more than 10 but less than 60 minutes
  3. exactly 90 minutes
  4. always 15+0
Show solution

Correct answer: B

Under the FIDE definition, rapid is more than 10 and less than 60 minutes per player under the prescribed calculation.

29. A blitz game is one in which the total time per player, including the increment calculated for 60 moves, is...

  1. 10 minutes or less
  2. at least 60 minutes
  3. exactly 25 minutes
  4. only 3+2
Show solution

Correct answer: A

Under the FIDE definition, blitz is 10 minutes or less per player under the prescribed calculation.

30. In rapid and blitz, the arbiter must especially understand...

  1. only how prizes are distributed
  2. when to intervene independently and when a timely player claim is required
  3. only the players' names
  4. only the opening ceremony
Show solution

Correct answer: B

Fast-play formats have special rules concerning intervention and claims.

31. Fischer increment means that...

  1. time is added after every move
  2. time is subtracted after every move
  3. the clock never stops
  4. the game is played without a clock
Show solution

Correct answer: A

With Fischer increment, a specified amount of time is added for each move.

32. Bronstein delay means that...

  1. the full delay is always added to the remaining time
  2. time used within the delay is restored up to the delay value, but unused delay is not accumulated
  3. there is no main time
  4. the game ends automatically after 30 moves
Show solution

Correct answer: B

Bronstein delay returns time used up to the stated limit, without accumulating unused delay as Fischer increment does.

33. Which document is the primary source for the rules of play over the board?

  1. FIDE Laws of Chess
  2. Only the club regulations
  3. The rating list
  4. The tournament standings
Show solution

Correct answer: A

The FIDE Laws of Chess are the primary rules governing play.

34. What should the arbiter do if the pieces are incorrectly set up before the game starts?

  1. Allow play to continue
  2. Correct the initial position before starting
  3. Record a draw
  4. Give both players a loss
Show solution

Correct answer: B

The correct initial position should be established before play begins.

35. In the initial position, the light square must be...

  1. on the player's lower left
  2. on the player's lower right
  3. anywhere
  4. in the centre
Show solution

Correct answer: B

The board is placed so that each player has a light square in the right-hand corner.

36. In the initial position, the queen stands...

  1. always on a dark square
  2. on a square of her own colour
  3. next to the rook
  4. behind the pawn on the a-file
Show solution

Correct answer: B

White's queen starts on a light square and Black's queen on a dark square.

37. If a player makes a move with two hands, for example while castling or promoting, this is...

  1. recommended
  2. an irregularity that may be penalized
  3. always checkmate
  4. permitted only for White
Show solution

Correct answer: B

Moves are made with one hand; using two hands may lead to a penalty under the Laws.

38. When claiming threefold repetition for a position that will arise after the intended move, the player should...

  1. make the move and then claim
  2. write down the intended move, not play it, stop the clock and summon the arbiter
  3. ask the spectators
  4. offer a draw without a scoresheet
Show solution

Correct answer: B

For a position that will arise, the player records the intended move and summons the arbiter before making it.

39. If a claim under the 50-move rule is incorrect, the arbiter...

  1. declares a draw
  2. adds time to the opponent as required for the time control and the game continues
  3. disqualifies the claimant
  4. restarts the game
Show solution

Correct answer: B

An incorrect claim is rejected and the prescribed time adjustment is made before play continues.

40. What is a 'dead position'?

  1. A position without queens
  2. A position in which neither player can checkmate by any series of legal moves
  3. A position with little time left
  4. A position after 20 moves
Show solution

Correct answer: B

A dead position ends the game immediately as a draw.

41. If a player displaces pieces, the player should...

  1. press the clock and leave
  2. restore the correct position on their own time
  3. automatically lose the game
  4. have the game cancelled
Show solution

Correct answer: B

A player who displaces pieces must restore them on their own time unless the arbiter decides otherwise.

42. May a spectator tell a player that the player's flag has fallen?

  1. Yes
  2. No
  3. Only if the spectator is the player's parent
  4. Only in rapid
Show solution

Correct answer: B

Spectators must not intervene in a game.

43. The arbiter may impose penalties such as a warning, adding time, reducing time or declaring the game lost...

  1. never
  2. in accordance with the Laws and the seriousness of the offence
  3. only in a final
  4. only on children
Show solution

Correct answer: B

The Laws provide a range of penalties that the arbiter may apply according to the circumstances.

44. If it is discovered during a game that the board is oriented incorrectly, the arbiter should...

  1. continue without any change
  2. transfer the position to a correctly oriented board when required
  3. record 0-0
  4. disqualify White
Show solution

Correct answer: B

The error is corrected by transferring the established position to a properly oriented board.

45. If the king and queen were placed on the wrong starting squares and the game is already under way, the arbiter applies...

  1. the rules for an incorrectly started game
  2. an automatic 1-0 result
  3. no action at all
  4. only a verbal warning
Show solution

Correct answer: A

An incorrect initial position is dealt with under the relevant Laws, including restarting the game when the applicable rule requires it.

46. What does 'appeal' mean in a tournament context?

  1. A draw offer
  2. A formal challenge to an arbiter's decision
  3. Pawn promotion
  4. Pairing
Show solution

Correct answer: B

An appeal is a request for review by the competent body when the event regulations provide for it.

47. The arbiter should explain a decision to a player...

  1. calmly and briefly, without an endless argument
  2. by shouting
  3. through the spectators
  4. never
Show solution

Correct answer: A

The arbiter's authority includes a calm explanation, not an unlimited debate.

48. What is the main purpose of a scoresheet?

  1. Decoration
  2. A record of the game and evidence for claims and reconstruction
  3. To make the player spend time
  4. To show spectators the player's handwriting
Show solution

Correct answer: B

The scoresheet can establish moves, repetitions, the 50-move count and help reconstruct positions.

49. When does a game end by draw agreement?

  1. When one player offers a draw
  2. When the opponent accepts the offer
  3. When the arbiter hears the word 'draw'
  4. When the spectators applaud
Show solution

Correct answer: B

A draw offer alone does not end the game; it must be accepted.

50. The most important principle when studying the Laws as an arbiter is to...

  1. memorize text without practical understanding
  2. understand both the wording of the rules and typical practical situations
  3. rely on the players
  4. ignore the appendices
Show solution

Correct answer: B

Good arbiter knowledge is demonstrated by correct decisions in practical situations, not by definitions alone.

Answer key

1-B 2-B 3-C 4-B 5-C 6-B 7-B 8-C 9-B 10-B 11-B 12-B 13-B 14-A 15-B 16-B 17-B 18-B 19-C 20-A 21-B 22-A 23-B 24-B 25-A 26-B 27-B 28-B 29-A 30-B 31-A 32-B 33-A 34-B 35-B 36-B 37-B 38-B 39-B 40-B 41-B 42-B 43-B 44-B 45-A 46-B 47-A 48-B 49-B 50-B

Test #2 – Ratings, Titles, Swiss Systems and Tournament Administration

50 questions • For practice: complete the test before opening the solutions. Then check every answer.

1. According to FIDE regulations, the FA title is...

  1. a club title
  2. the entry-level international arbiter title
  3. a player title
  4. an automatic title for an IM
Show solution

Correct answer: B

FIDE Arbiter is the first international arbiter title in the FIDE title system.

2. Compared with FA, the IA title is...

  1. a lower level
  2. a more advanced international arbiter title
  3. the same as NA
  4. only an honorary title
Show solution

Correct answer: B

International Arbiter is the more advanced international arbiter title.

3. Under the regulations effective from 1 March 2026, an arbiter-title norm may not be older than...

  1. 1 year
  2. 3 years
  3. 6 years
  4. 20 years
Show solution

Correct answer: C

Under the regulations effective from 1 March 2026, a norm may not be older than six years on the application date.

4. In a serious assessment of arbiter knowledge, a candidate should generally demonstrate at least...

  1. 50%
  2. 60%
  3. 70%
  4. 80%
Show solution

Correct answer: D

A serious arbiter knowledge assessment normally requires a high passing standard, here set at 80%.

5. A FIDE-rated Swiss tournament should use...

  1. any local pairing method
  2. one of the published FIDE Swiss systems
  3. manual pairings without rules
  4. a knockout draw
Show solution

Correct answer: B

A FIDE Swiss system must comply with the published/approved system; any acceleration must also be announced as required.

6. The number of rounds in a Swiss tournament should be...

  1. determined in advance
  2. decided after the last round
  3. kept secret
  4. always nine
Show solution

Correct answer: A

The number of rounds is a fundamental competition condition and should be declared in advance.

7. As a rule, two players in a Swiss tournament must not...

  1. come from the same city
  2. play each other more than once
  3. have the same score
  4. receive the same colour
Show solution

Correct answer: B

One of the basic Swiss principles is that the same pair should not meet twice.

8. A score group is a group of players...

  1. with the same score
  2. from the same federation
  3. of the same age
  4. with the same colour history
Show solution

Correct answer: A

Swiss pairings are organized around score groups.

9. A floater is a player who...

  1. is moved to another score group for pairing purposes
  2. withdraws from the tournament
  3. arrives late for a round
  4. always receives White
Show solution

Correct answer: A

Floaters are used when a score group cannot be paired entirely within itself.

10. A bye in a Swiss tournament is usually assigned to...

  1. the lowest eligible player who has not previously received a bye
  2. the player with the highest score
  3. the first player to arrive
  4. any player who asks for it
Show solution

Correct answer: A

Subject to the applicable pairing rules, the bye is generally assigned to the lowest eligible player without a previous bye.

11. Colour preference refers to...

  1. the preferred shirt colour
  2. the need or preference to receive White or Black
  3. the colour of the board
  4. the colour of the scoresheet
Show solution

Correct answer: B

The pairing system considers colour balance and previous colour sequences.

12. Three identical colours in a row are...

  1. always forced
  2. avoided whenever the pairing rules allow
  3. not tracked
  4. assigned only to seeded players
Show solution

Correct answer: B

The system tries to avoid excessive sequences of the same colour.

13. Buchholz is...

  1. the sum of the opponents' scores
  2. the number of wins with Black
  3. the average age of the players
  4. the number of draws
Show solution

Correct answer: A

Buchholz is based on the scores achieved by a player's opponents, subject to the applicable tie-break rules.

14. Buchholz Cut 1 means that...

  1. the strongest opponent is removed
  2. the lowest contribution is removed under the applicable rule
  3. all draws are removed
  4. only direct encounter is counted
Show solution

Correct answer: B

Cut 1 removes one lowest Buchholz contribution in accordance with the applicable rules.

15. Sonneborn-Berger is based on...

  1. the scores of opponents defeated plus half the scores of opponents drawn with
  2. only the number of checkmates
  3. only rating
  4. only colours
Show solution

Correct answer: A

Sonneborn-Berger weights results by the scores achieved by the opponents.

16. Direct Encounter is...

  1. the result among players tied on points when the criterion is applicable
  2. the result against the top seed
  3. the number of games
  4. the rating list
Show solution

Correct answer: A

Direct Encounter uses the results among the tied players when the criterion can validly be applied.

17. The standard FIDE rating formula is based on...

  1. Rnew = Rold + K × (score − expected score)
  2. only the number of wins
  3. only Buchholz
  4. only the player's age
Show solution

Correct answer: A

Rating change depends on the K-factor and the difference between the actual and expected score.

18. K=40 applies to a new player on the rating list until the player has completed events with at least...

  1. 10 games
  2. 20 games
  3. 30 games
  4. 100 games
Show solution

Correct answer: C

The FIDE Rating Regulations specify the relevant 30-game threshold for a new player.

19. K=20 generally applies to a player...

  1. below 2400, subject to the current regulations
  2. always above 2600
  3. only to children
  4. only in rapid
Show solution

Correct answer: A

For many established players below 2400, K=20 is the usual factor, subject to the current regulations.

20. K=10 applies once a player's published rating has reached...

  1. 2000
  2. 2200
  3. 2300
  4. 2400
Show solution

Correct answer: D

Once the published rating has reached 2400, K=10 applies under the relevant rating rules.

21. For a game to be FIDE-rated, it must be played according to...

  1. a private agreement
  2. the FIDE Laws of Chess and the relevant rating regulations
  3. only the club rules
  4. an online poll
Show solution

Correct answer: B

Rating requires compliance with the FIDE Laws and the applicable rating regulations.

22. A tournament intended for FIDE rating must be...

  1. registered/reported through the required FIDE procedure
  2. played secretly
  3. held without an arbiter
  4. run without published regulations
Show solution

Correct answer: A

FIDE-rated events must be properly registered and conducted in accordance with the reporting procedure.

23. The CM title is normally associated with reaching a rating of...

  1. 2000
  2. 2100
  3. 2200
  4. 2400
Show solution

Correct answer: C

Candidate Master is normally associated with the 2200 rating threshold, subject to the current title regulations.

24. The FM title is normally associated with reaching a rating of...

  1. 2100
  2. 2200
  3. 2300
  4. 2500
Show solution

Correct answer: C

FIDE Master is normally associated with the 2300 rating threshold.

25. The IM title normally requires...

  1. only 2200
  2. a 2400 rating requirement and norms
  3. only winning a club tournament
  4. only nine rounds
Show solution

Correct answer: B

The IM title normally requires the rating threshold and norms, except where the regulations provide another route.

26. The GM title normally requires...

  1. a 2500 rating requirement and norms
  2. 2300 without norms
  3. only a national title
  4. only a rapid rating
Show solution

Correct answer: A

The GM title normally requires the higher rating threshold and norms, subject to any special routes in the regulations.

27. A title-norm tournament must carefully monitor...

  1. the number of federations, titled players, ratings and games
  2. only the colour of the tablecloth
  3. only the number of spectators
  4. only the prizes
Show solution

Correct answer: A

Norm eligibility depends on the opponents, federations, titles, rating averages, number of games and other conditions.

28. If an accelerated Swiss system is used, it should be...

  1. announced in advance and comply with a FIDE-published/approved system
  2. hidden from the players
  3. changed after round three
  4. used without any rules
Show solution

Correct answer: A

Acceleration should be declared in advance and conform to the applicable FIDE system.

29. When using Swiss-Manager or Vega, the arbiter...

  1. does not need to understand pairing rules
  2. must understand the logic and verify the program's output
  3. only needs to click 'automatic pairing'
  4. is not responsible for errors
Show solution

Correct answer: B

Software is a tool; responsibility for a valid pairing remains with the arbiter.

30. If a player withdraws from the tournament, the arbiter should...

  1. record the withdrawal and exclude/pair the player correctly
  2. leave the player in all future pairings
  3. give the player wins in the remaining rounds
  4. delete the player's previous games
Show solution

Correct answer: A

A withdrawal must be recorded correctly so that pairings and standings are not distorted.

31. Failure to appear for a game is governed by...

  1. the default time stated in the competition regulations
  2. always 60 minutes
  3. always five seconds
  4. a decision by the spectators
Show solution

Correct answer: A

The permitted lateness/default time must be specified by the competition rules.

32. In a team competition, a captain may...

  1. give chess analysis during a game
  2. do only what the team regulations permit
  3. move a player's pieces
  4. use an engine
Show solution

Correct answer: B

Captain communication is strictly limited by the applicable team-event rules.

33. Fair Play procedure requires the arbiter to...

  1. avoid spreading unsupported accusations
  2. publicly announce a suspicion immediately
  3. ask the spectators to decide
  4. penalize without a rule
Show solution

Correct answer: A

Discretion and proper procedure are essential in Fair Play matters.

34. A player may have an electronic device in the playing venue...

  1. always switched on
  2. only when permitted by the rules/arbiter and under the prescribed conditions
  3. as long as it is in a pocket
  4. whenever it is silent
Show solution

Correct answer: B

Electronic devices are strictly regulated and any exceptions must be expressly permitted.

35. If the arbiter takes custody of a player's phone under the event regulations, the arbiter should...

  1. follow the procedure and take reasonable care of the item
  2. leave it with spectators
  3. read the player's messages
  4. publish the phone's contents
Show solution

Correct answer: A

The arbiter must respect privacy and the prescribed procedure.

36. For an appeal against an arbiter's decision, it is essential that...

  1. the procedure, deadline and any required deposit are clearly defined
  2. the matter is debated on social media
  3. the spectators vote
  4. the game is automatically replayed
Show solution

Correct answer: A

The appeal procedure should form part of the competition regulations.

37. The Chief Arbiter is responsible for...

  1. the overall arbiter organization and proper conduct of the event
  2. only photography
  3. only prizes
  4. only cleaning the playing hall
Show solution

Correct answer: A

The Chief Arbiter coordinates the arbiter team and the proper conduct of the competition.

38. A Deputy/Assistant Arbiter works...

  1. according to the responsibilities assigned by the Chief Arbiter
  2. only on player requests
  3. independently without coordination
  4. instead of the catering organizer
Show solution

Correct answer: A

An arbiter team must work in a coordinated way.

39. In a disputed position, the best evidence often includes...

  1. both scoresheets and the actual board position
  2. a spectator's comment
  3. someone's impression
  4. a photograph from another round
Show solution

Correct answer: A

Reconstruction should rely on scoresheets, the position and other reliable evidence.

40. In a rating report, the arbiter must pay attention to...

  1. correct FIDE IDs, results, time control, dates and rating category
  2. the colour of the chairs
  3. the music
  4. the number of social-media posts
Show solution

Correct answer: A

Identity or time-control errors can invalidate or complicate rating processing.

41. Standard, rapid and blitz ratings are...

  1. always one and the same list
  2. separate rating categories
  3. only for titled players
  4. only for juniors
Show solution

Correct answer: B

FIDE maintains separate rating lists for standard, rapid and blitz chess.

42. A game against an unrated player in a rating calculation...

  1. is handled under specific rating rules
  2. is always deleted
  3. is always worth 100 rating points
  4. always uses K=10
Show solution

Correct answer: A

The FIDE Rating Regulations include specific rules for games involving unrated players.

43. If a result is entered incorrectly in the pairing program, the arbiter should...

  1. correct it before publishing the next round when possible and document the correction
  2. ignore it
  3. penalize both players
  4. change the pairings manually without a record
Show solution

Correct answer: A

Correct results are critical before the next pairing is produced.

44. The next round's pairing should not be published before...

  1. the previous round's results have been checked as far as reasonably possible
  2. the closing ceremony
  3. the spectators arrive
  4. lunch
Show solution

Correct answer: A

An incorrect result can produce an incorrect pairing.

45. If two players in a norm event are from the same federation, this is...

  1. always forbidden
  2. a relevant fact when checking norm requirements
  3. irrelevant
  4. a reason for an automatic draw
Show solution

Correct answer: B

The distribution of opponents by federation is part of norm eligibility under the current Title Regulations.

46. In an arbiter knowledge test, special attention should be paid to...

  1. the exact exceptions contained in the rules
  2. beautiful handwriting
  3. reading speed
  4. chess openings
Show solution

Correct answer: A

Questions often turn on exceptions such as mating possibility, illegal moves, 50/75 moves, repetition and electronic devices.

47. If the competition regulations impose a stricter restriction on draw offers before a certain move, the arbiter...

  1. applies the published condition if it is consistent with the FIDE framework
  2. ignores it
  3. changes it verbally during a round
  4. allows all draw offers
Show solution

Correct answer: A

Special competition conditions must be published in advance and be consistent with the FIDE framework.

48. If a player asks why a pairing was produced, the arbiter should...

  1. calmly explain the basic reason without changing a valid pairing
  2. immediately change the colour assignment
  3. cancel the round
  4. say that software can never make an error
Show solution

Correct answer: A

Transparency is useful, but a valid pairing is not changed because of pressure.

49. A common practical risk in small FIDE-rated events is...

  1. an incorrect FIDE ID, time control or tournament report
  2. too many grandmasters
  3. too many cameras
  4. a lack of opening theory
Show solution

Correct answer: A

Administrative data and reporting errors are common and can have important consequences.

50. Final standings should be published using...

  1. the tie-break criteria announced in advance
  2. criteria invented after the event
  3. alphabetical order only
  4. age only
Show solution

Correct answer: A

Tie-break criteria should be known before the competition begins.

Answer key

1-B 2-B 3-C 4-D 5-B 6-A 7-B 8-A 9-A 10-A 11-B 12-B 13-A 14-B 15-A 16-A 17-A 18-C 19-A 20-D 21-B 22-A 23-C 24-C 25-B 26-A 27-A 28-A 29-B 30-A 31-A 32-B 33-A 34-B 35-A 36-A 37-A 38-A 39-A 40-A 41-B 42-A 43-A 44-A 45-B 46-A 47-A 48-A 49-A 50-A

Test #3 – Practical Arbiter Cases

50 questions • For practice: complete the test before opening the solutions. Then check every answer.

1. White plays Kg1 to a square that is attacked, then presses the clock. Black summons the arbiter. What is the decision?

  1. Legal move
  2. Illegal move; restore the position and apply the prescribed penalty
  3. Black must make a move
  4. Automatic draw
Show solution

Correct answer: B

A king may not finish on an attacked square; the illegal move was completed when the clock was pressed.

2. A player says 'j'adoube' while the opponent is thinking and adjusts a piece. Is this correct?

  1. Yes
  2. No; only the player who has the move may adjust pieces
  3. Only in blitz
  4. Only the king
Show solution

Correct answer: B

A player who is not to move may not adjust pieces on the board.

3. White touches a knight and an opponent's pawn. The knight can legally capture that pawn. What must White do?

  1. Make any move
  2. Capture the pawn with the knight
  3. Resign
  4. Offer a draw
Show solution

Correct answer: B

Where legally possible, the touched own piece and the touched opponent's piece determine the required capture.

4. White touches the queen, but the queen has no legal move. What happens?

  1. White loses the game
  2. White may make any legal move
  3. White must pass the move
  4. Black chooses White's move
Show solution

Correct answer: B

Touch-move applies only when the touched piece has a legal move.

5. A player moves a pawn to the eighth rank, presses the clock, but does not replace the pawn with a new piece. This is...

  1. a legal move
  2. an illegal move / promotion irregularity
  3. checkmate
  4. a draw
Show solution

Correct answer: B

Promotion must be completed by replacing the pawn with the chosen piece.

6. A player claims a draw by threefold repetition but has no scoresheet and the positions are unclear. The arbiter...

  1. automatically accepts the claim
  2. checks the evidence and rejects the claim if it cannot be established
  3. awards a win
  4. asks the spectators
Show solution

Correct answer: B

The arbiter must verify the claim using the scoresheets, position and other reliable evidence.

7. A player claims a draw under the 50-move rule, but the immediately preceding move was a pawn move. Decision?

  1. Draw
  2. Reject the claim
  3. Checkmate
  4. Replay the game
Show solution

Correct answer: B

A pawn move resets the 50-move count.

8. Black's flag falls. White has king and bishop; Black has king and rook. Result?

  1. White wins if a mating position can arise by some legal sequence of moves
  2. Always a draw
  3. Black wins
  4. The game is replayed
Show solution

Correct answer: A

The test is whether a legal mating sequence is possible, not whether mate is likely in the current position.

9. Black's flag falls. White has only a king. Result?

  1. White wins
  2. Draw
  3. Black wins
  4. 0-0
Show solution

Correct answer: B

With only a king, White cannot checkmate by any series of legal moves.

10. A player accidentally knocks over several pieces and then presses the clock. The arbiter should...

  1. allow the game to continue without restoring the pieces
  2. restore the position and adjust time/penalty as appropriate
  3. record checkmate
  4. change colours
Show solution

Correct answer: B

The correct position must be re-established; the arbiter may adjust the clock and apply a penalty if appropriate.

11. In a rapid game neither player records the moves. This is...

  1. normal under the rapid rules
  2. always forbidden
  3. a loss for both players
  4. permitted only for titled players
Show solution

Correct answer: A

Rapid games do not carry the same move-recording obligation as standard games.

12. In a standard game, a player writes down a move before playing it. This is...

  1. permitted as analysis
  2. not permitted, except in a specific procedure such as an intended-move draw claim
  3. compulsory
  4. permitted only for White
Show solution

Correct answer: B

A move should not be recorded in advance except where the Laws specifically require an intended move to be written for a claim.

13. A player uses headphones during the game without permission. The arbiter...

  1. ignores it
  2. applies the rules on electronic devices and Fair Play
  3. adds time to that player
  4. asks the opponent whether it is disturbing
Show solution

Correct answer: B

Headphones create an electronic/communication risk and must be dealt with under the event rules and Fair Play procedure.

14. A parent tells a child, 'Watch out, your queen is hanging!' The arbiter should...

  1. thank the parent
  2. warn/remove the spectator and assess the effect on the game
  3. allow the advice
  4. replay the move
Show solution

Correct answer: B

Outside assistance is prohibited and the arbiter must protect the integrity of the game.

15. In a team match, the captain tells a player, 'Offer a draw.' Is this always permitted?

  1. Yes, without restriction
  2. It depends on the team-event rules; any permitted communication must not contain chess analysis
  3. Captains do not exist in chess
  4. Only in blitz
Show solution

Correct answer: B

Captain communication is specifically regulated and limited.

16. A player claims to have delivered checkmate, but that player's own king remains in check. Decision?

  1. The mate stands
  2. The player's move is illegal
  3. The opponent loses
  4. Draw
Show solution

Correct answer: B

A move cannot legally give checkmate if it leaves the mover's own king in check.

17. A player castles using two hands. The arbiter...

  1. may apply the penalty prescribed for a two-handed move
  2. must always accept it without action
  3. declares a draw
  4. changes the result
Show solution

Correct answer: A

A move is to be made with one hand.

18. A player presses the clock without making a move. This is...

  1. normal
  2. an irregularity; the arbiter intervenes and may penalize
  3. a win
  4. a draw offer
Show solution

Correct answer: B

The clock is pressed only after a move has been made.

19. White plays 1.e4, but the clock was never started. The problem is noticed several moves later. The arbiter...

  1. uses the available evidence and adjusts the clock as fairly as possible
  2. restarts the whole tournament
  3. records a loss for the organizer
  4. must always ignore it
Show solution

Correct answer: A

The arbiter should make a reasonable correction based on the available evidence.

20. One player's scoresheet is missing moves during a period when recording was compulsory. The arbiter may...

  1. require the scoresheet to be completed on that player's time when appropriate
  2. award that player a prize
  3. always ignore it
  4. forbid the opponent from recording
Show solution

Correct answer: A

The scoresheet should be kept up to date when the Laws require it.

21. A player refuses to hand in the scoresheet after the game. The arbiter...

  1. can do nothing
  2. may require the scoresheet to be submitted under the competition rules
  3. must change the result
  4. gives a new form to a spectator
Show solution

Correct answer: B

Scoresheets form part of the tournament documentation.

22. White claims that Black's flag has fallen, but White's flag has also fallen and it cannot be established which fell first. In a typical applicable case the decision may be...

  1. draw
  2. White wins in every case
  3. Black wins in every case
  4. replay the game
Show solution

Correct answer: A

Where the order of flag falls cannot be established, the applicable rules for the format may lead to a draw.

23. In a blitz game a player makes an illegal move and presses the clock. The opponent immediately summons the arbiter before making a move. The decision depends on...

  1. the current blitz rules for a completed illegal move
  2. the colour of the pieces
  3. the spectators
  4. the opening played
Show solution

Correct answer: A

Fast-play formats have specific procedures and a claim must be timely.

24. If the opponent makes a move after an illegal move and only then claims, the arbiter...

  1. always takes back 20 moves
  2. applies the rules governing the timing of the claim and whether correction is still possible
  3. automatically awards a win
  4. asks a computer
Show solution

Correct answer: B

The timing of a claim matters, especially in rapid and blitz.

25. Player A has 4:59 remaining in a standard game with no increment and stops recording moves. This...

  1. may be permitted under the Laws
  2. is always a loss
  3. is always forbidden
  4. is permitted only for Black
Show solution

Correct answer: A

Below five minutes without the required increment, an exception to the recording obligation may apply.

26. A player with a disability asks for a reasonable accommodation. The arbiter should...

  1. refuse immediately
  2. apply the FIDE rules and provide a reasonable accommodation without compromising Fair Play
  3. ask the player to leave the event
  4. award a loss
Show solution

Correct answer: B

The arbiter should facilitate equal participation in accordance with the rules.

27. A blind or visually impaired player uses a special board. This is...

  1. permitted under the relevant supplementary rules
  2. forbidden
  3. cheating
  4. only allowed in training
Show solution

Correct answer: A

FIDE has additional provisions for players with disabilities.

28. Castling in Chess960 is performed...

  1. always exactly as in classical chess regardless of the starting position
  2. according to the special Chess960 rules for the final squares of the king and rook
  3. not at all
  4. only with the queen
Show solution

Correct answer: B

Chess960 requires special castling rules because the initial arrangement is different.

29. The playing hall is noisy and a player complains. The arbiter should...

  1. provide the best possible playing conditions
  2. always tell the player to tolerate it
  3. cancel the event permanently
  4. award the player a point
Show solution

Correct answer: A

Maintaining suitable playing conditions is part of the arbiter's role.

30. A player repeatedly disturbs the opponent with draw offers. The arbiter may...

  1. warn or penalize the player for disturbance
  2. allow unlimited repeated offers
  3. require the opponent to accept
  4. remove the clock
Show solution

Correct answer: A

Repeated draw offers may constitute disturbance of the opponent.

31. During the game a player tells the opponent, 'This is theoretically drawn.' The arbiter...

  1. may treat it as disturbance or improper communication
  2. must declare a draw
  3. gives the player a bonus
  4. must always ignore it
Show solution

Correct answer: A

Commenting on the position during play is not permitted.

32. A game ends in checkmate, but the mating player's flag had already fallen and the flag fall was demonstrably noticed earlier. The result depends on...

  1. the sequence of events and the timeliness of the relevant claim/intervention
  2. the beauty of the mate
  3. the players' ratings
  4. the spectators
Show solution

Correct answer: A

The arbiter must determine what happened first and which event was properly established under the applicable rules.

33. If the last legal move delivered checkmate, the game ends...

  1. immediately by checkmate
  2. only when the clock is pressed
  3. only when the scoresheet is signed
  4. only after an appeal
Show solution

Correct answer: A

A legal checkmate ends the game immediately.

34. A player clearly resigns and immediately changes their mind. The arbiter...

  1. treats the clear resignation as ending the game
  2. always restores the game
  3. asks the spectators
  4. restarts from move one
Show solution

Correct answer: A

A clear resignation ends the game.

35. Two players agree on a result before the game. This is...

  1. a serious Fair Play violation
  2. permitted
  3. compulsory in the final round
  4. a catering issue
Show solution

Correct answer: A

Pre-arranging a result is a serious breach of sporting integrity.

36. A player refuses to comply with an arbiter's decision. The arbiter may...

  1. apply disciplinary measures within the rules
  2. leave the hall
  3. ask for a vote
  4. offer a draw
Show solution

Correct answer: A

The arbiter has authority to maintain order and apply the penalties provided by the rules.

37. At a children's tournament the arbiter should...

  1. apply the rules clearly, calmly and pedagogically without compromising the integrity of the event
  2. allow parents to give advice
  3. avoid using clocks
  4. change results to comfort children
Show solution

Correct answer: A

A pedagogical manner does not mean abandoning the rules.

38. If there are not enough queens available for promotion, the arbiter should...

  1. provide the required piece or stop the clock while the problem is resolved
  2. allow a coin to represent the queen
  3. forbid promotion
  4. declare a draw
Show solution

Correct answer: A

The organizer/arbiter should ensure that the necessary pieces are available.

39. A player moves a piece with one hand and presses the clock with the other. This is...

  1. improper
  2. ideal
  3. compulsory
  4. permitted only in time trouble
Show solution

Correct answer: A

The move and the clock press are to be made with the same hand.

40. In a game without increment, a player who cannot win by normal means while the opponent is trying to win on time may, where the applicable rules provide for it, claim...

  1. a draw under the applicable quickplay-finish procedure
  2. a win by rating
  3. a new queen
  4. a different time control
Show solution

Correct answer: A

Some competitions may use specific quickplay-finish provisions; the arbiter must know whether they apply.

41. The organizer wants to change the time control after round three. The arbiter should...

  1. warn that competition conditions must not be changed arbitrarily during the event
  2. always accept the change
  3. ask only the top seed
  4. delete the rating report
Show solution

Correct answer: A

The time control and competition conditions should be established in advance, especially for rated events.

42. A player appears in the list with an incorrect FIDE ID. The arbiter should...

  1. correct the player's identity before submitting the report
  2. leave it if the name looks similar
  3. create a new FIDE ID manually
  4. delete the result
Show solution

Correct answer: A

The correct FIDE ID is essential for rating processing.

43. In the final round two players make a quick legal draw, but spectators complain. The arbiter...

  1. applies the Laws and competition regulations; spectators do not decide the result
  2. changes the result
  3. always orders the game to continue
  4. awards a win to a third player
Show solution

Correct answer: A

If there is no draw restriction and no evidence of misconduct, spectator dissatisfaction does not change the result.

44. A player signs an incorrect result, but the mistake is discovered before the standings are published. The arbiter...

  1. establishes the facts and corrects the result when the actual result is clear
  2. must always keep the signed result
  3. deletes the game
  4. replays the round
Show solution

Correct answer: A

The actual result is more important than an administrative error when it can be reliably established.

45. If a player deliberately stops the clock without a valid reason, the arbiter...

  1. may penalize the player for disturbance or improper clock stopping
  2. must always allow it
  3. records a draw
  4. provides another clock
Show solution

Correct answer: A

The clock is stopped to summon the arbiter or for another justified reason.

46. A player leaves the playing venue while having the move without permission. The arbiter...

  1. checks and applies the rules governing leaving the playing venue
  2. always ignores it
  3. gives the player advice
  4. asks the spectators
Show solution

Correct answer: A

Player movement during a game is regulated for Fair Play reasons.

47. If the opponent is absent when the round starts, that player's clock...

  1. is started according to the competition rules
  2. must always wait until the player arrives
  3. starts only after the spectators sit down
  4. is not used
Show solution

Correct answer: A

The round start and default-time rules must be applied consistently.

48. If a player makes an illegal move that leaves the king in check and the opponent does not immediately notice, the arbiter in a standard game...

  1. should intervene when the illegal move is observed, according to the Laws
  2. must never intervene
  3. must wait for a spectator
  4. declares a draw
Show solution

Correct answer: A

In standard chess, the arbiter has a more active role in correcting illegal moves.

49. When should the competition regulations be published?

  1. Before the tournament begins
  2. After the final round
  3. Only verbally after a dispute
  4. Never
Show solution

Correct answer: A

Players should know the competition regulations in advance.

50. An arbiter sees the phrase 'unless the opponent cannot checkmate'. What kind of exception does this refer to?

  1. an exception in decisions such as flag fall or an illegal move where no mating sequence is possible
  2. the colour of a piece
  3. a prize rule
  4. Buchholz
Show solution

Correct answer: A

The possibility of checkmate by a legal sequence is an important exception in several loss-of-game decisions.

Answer key

1-B 2-B 3-B 4-B 5-B 6-B 7-B 8-A 9-B 10-B 11-A 12-B 13-B 14-B 15-B 16-B 17-A 18-B 19-A 20-A 21-B 22-A 23-A 24-B 25-A 26-B 27-A 28-B 29-A 30-A 31-A 32-A 33-A 34-A 35-A 36-A 37-A 38-A 39-A 40-A 41-A 42-A 43-A 44-A 45-A 46-A 47-A 48-A 49-A 50-A

Official FIDE sources for verification

Note: FIDE regulations change over time. For serious study and official application, always check the latest FIDE Handbook and the current materials of the relevant federation.