It
depends on the position, the
player, and the time
control. In sharp tactical
positions, some players may
calculate forcing sequences
as far as 12 moves (24 plies)
ahead. In quiet positions
very little calculation is
needed, though 3-5 moves
(6-10 plies) is a reasonable
average for that kind of
position.
Players calculate
further in more tactical
positions and calculate less
in non-tactical positions.
Some players have strong
instincts and rely more on
these than on the
calculation of variations.
Others prefer to play
'concrete chess' analyzing
out as many possibilities as
possible. The more
'concrete' the player's
style, the further ahead
they will calculate.
(Source:
http://chyss.tripod.com/Questions.html)
The following diagram shows
a very complex position.
Gary Kasparov is reported to have said this was his "Best game ever."
This game involves at least 14 or more calculated moves ahead
(28 plies) and can be
replayed on a pgn viewer at the following page:
