Removing The Defender
Removing the defender eliminates the piece protecting an important target, usually by capturing it or exchanging it away.
What to look for
Identify the target and its defender. Ask whether you can capture or exchange that defender before taking the target.
Recognize the mechanism
Work backward from the target you want to win. Identify its defender, calculate a capture or exchange that removes it, and then check whether another defender can take over.
Common practical mistake
Do not lose more material removing a defender than the follow-up gains. Include all recaptures and forcing replies.
Training goal
Train the habit of asking what protects the thing you want to win.