Rules for the Opening

I have been finding that opening preparation works to a very limited extent in my online and OTB play. I'm tempted to think that this is due to my own rating and the rating category of the people that I play. On reviewing after the fact, I've found that we differ from the book knowingly or unknowingly by not following the main line is, or by getting into gambit play, or changing the move order.

It makes these rules from Reuben Fine all the more important for someone like me to keep in mind.

1. Center pawns first.
2. Develop with Threats.
3. Develop knights before bishops.
4. Don't move the same piece twice.
5. Make no more than one or two pawn moves.
6. Do not bring the queen out too early.
7. Castle asap, preferably on the king's side.
8. Play to get control of the center - usually with minor pieces.
9. Keep at least one pawn in the center.
10. Do not sacrifice without a clear and adequate reason, e.g.:
    • it secures a tangible advantage in development (3 tempii or more)
    • it deflects the opponent's queen
    • it prevents the opponent from castling
    • it enables a strong attack to be developed
    
    

More opening rules at DrDave's.