bithead@ihlpf.UUCP (P.STEIN) (11/14/85)
>> Here is the 24th game in the "other" notation. (I believe the postings >> by Ken Thompson were in the algebraic notation. I forget what this >> notation is called). >> >> 1. P-K4 P-QB4 22.R-R3 B-N2 >> 2. N-KB3 P-Q3 23.B-K3 R-K2 > > >This "other" notation is called "inferior." No, this other notation has been called "English" or "Descriptive" notation. Serious chess players of English speaking countries should endeavor to be well versed in both algebraic and descriptive notation. Although FIDE and our own USCF endorse algebraic, the only "inferior" notation is that which cannot accurately describe a game. A game in descriptive, if properly recorded, should pose no difficulties even to those of another nationality. I think in days past the USCF has tried to approach the notation issue with undue vigor, going as far as to promote the sale of algebraically marked chess boards. I oppose this practice not because I hold algebraic to be inferior, but because ANY markings on a chess board are objectionable. Algebraic notation has its merits and I believe it's a great idea to introduce it to those not initiated in another form of notation, but left-handed people shouldn't be forced to write right-handed! Pete Stein ( ihnp4!ihlpf!bithead )
ashby@uiucdcsp.CS.UIUC.EDU (11/15/85)
When I called descriptive notation inferior, I didn't mean to touch off another descriptive vs algebraic debate. I was simply trying to be humorous; I guess I should have used a :-) somewhere. Oh, well.