What is the Woodpecker Method?

The Woodpecker Method is a chess training technique developed by GM Axel Smith and Hans Tikkanen. It involves solving a fixed set of tactical puzzles repeatedly, getting faster each cycle. This repetition builds pattern recognition, allowing you to spot tactical motifs instantly in real games. The method is scientifically proven to improve tactical ability more effectively than solving new puzzles.

How does the Woodpecker Method work?

The Woodpecker Method works through spaced repetition of tactical puzzles. You select 100-300 puzzles and solve them in cycles. Cycle 1 takes the longest as you calculate carefully. Each subsequent cycle gets faster as you recognize patterns. By cycles 4-5, what took 60 minutes might take only 7-8 minutes. This speed indicates the patterns are now automatic - burned into your subconscious.

How many puzzles should be in a Woodpecker Method set?

Most chess trainers find success with 100-300 puzzles per set. Beginners should start with 100-150 puzzles to keep cycles manageable. Intermediate to advanced players can use 200-300 puzzles for more variety. The key is choosing a size you can complete in a reasonable time - typically 30-60 minutes for the first cycle.

What rating should Woodpecker Method puzzles be?

Choose puzzles slightly below your peak tactical ability - typically 100-200 points below your puzzle rating. If you're rated 1500, use puzzles around 1300-1400. The goal is to build speed and pattern recognition, not to struggle with each puzzle. Easier puzzles allow more repetitions and faster cycle times.

How many Woodpecker Method cycles should I complete?

The original Woodpecker Method recommends 3-7 cycles per puzzle set. Most users see significant improvement after 4-5 cycles. You'll know you've mastered a set when your cycle time plateaus and you're recognizing patterns instantly. Then it's time to create a new set with different puzzles.

Is the Woodpecker Method effective for chess improvement?

Yes, the Woodpecker Method is highly effective. It's based on principles of spaced repetition and pattern recognition that are proven in learning science. Many players report gaining 100-200 rating points in tactical ability after consistent Woodpecker training. The method is especially effective for players who plateau from solving random puzzles.

What is the best Woodpecker Method app?

Peck is a free Woodpecker Method training app with curated puzzles from the Lichess database, automatic cycle tracking, progress analytics, and gamification features like streaks and achievements. It's specifically designed for the Woodpecker Method with cycle time tracking and pattern recognition metrics.

Can I use the Woodpecker Method for free?

Yes, Peck is completely free. You get access to millions of high-quality puzzles from the Lichess database, unlimited puzzle sets, full progress tracking, and all features at no cost. No credit card required.

How long does a Woodpecker Method cycle take?

Cycle times vary by set size and skill level. For a 150-puzzle set, Cycle 1 typically takes 45-60 minutes. Cycle 2 is around 20-30 minutes. By Cycle 4-5, most users complete the set in 7-15 minutes. This dramatic improvement in speed indicates successful pattern internalization.

Where did the Woodpecker Method come from?

The Woodpecker Method was developed by Swedish Grandmaster Axel Smith and International Master Hans Tikkanen. They published the method in their 2018 book 'The Woodpecker Method'. The name comes from how woodpeckers repeatedly peck at trees - just as you repeatedly solve the same puzzles. Both authors used this method to achieve their chess titles.

How much does Peck cost?

Peck is free. All features including unlimited puzzle sets, progress analytics, achievements, and leaderboards are available at no cost.

Peck is free because we believe the Woodpecker Method should be accessible to every chess player. We use open-source puzzles from the Lichess database and want to help players improve without financial barriers.

Free • The Scientific Way to Master Chess

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Internalize.

The Woodpecker Method isn't about solving new puzzles every day. It's about solving the same best puzzles faster and faster until the patterns are burned into your subconscious.

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Woodpecker Progress

Set #142 • 150 Puzzles

Faster

Cycle 145m 00s

Cycle 222m 30s

Cycle 311m 15s

Cycle 405m 30s

1.5M+

Puzzles Available

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Avg. Rating Gain

94%

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Everything you need to master tactics

We've combined the most effective training method with modern technology to create the ultimate chess improvement tool.

The Woodpecker Method

Based on spaced repetition, the Woodpecker Method helps you internalize patterns by solving the same set of puzzles repeatedly, faster each time.

7 Cycles of repetition

Halve your time each cycle

Build subconscious pattern recognition

Initial Solve60m

First Repetition30m

Reinforcement15m

Mastery7.5m

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Don't just solve. Internalize.

Woodpecker Progress

Everything you need to master tactics

The Woodpecker Method

Ready to transform your chess?

Don't just solve.
Internalize.