Back Rank Mate
The king is stuck on the back rank, usually blocked by its own pawns, and a rook or queen gives mate.
What to look for
Look for open files or ranks leading to the king. Check whether the king has a flight square.
Recognize the mechanism
Map the king’s flight squares before considering a rook invasion. A pawn shield can protect the king from one direction while trapping it against its own back rank. Trace the checking file all the way to the destination and notice any defender that can interpose.
Common practical mistake
Do not call every last-rank rook check mate. An available flight square, a capture of the rook, or a block changes the answer. Creating a flight square may be the defender’s practical resource.
Training goal
Recognize when a king has no escape and can be mated by a heavy piece.