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Annotation (also symbols !!, !, !?, ?!, ?, ??)

By Mark Weeks, About.com

Definition: An annotation is a collection of written comments about a game, a position, or a move, including variations, explanatory text, or both. In annotating, an annotator attempts to explain why a game was won or lost.

Symbols may be used after noteworthy moves. The following table shows the most common symbols.

  • !! : a brilliant move
  • ! : an excellent love
  • !? : a move deserving attention
  • ?! : a dubious move
  • ? : a weak move
  • ?? : a blunder
For example, 31.Qh7! means the move 31.Qh7 was (or, if it is an unplayed variation, would be) excellent.

Annotation should not be confused with notation, which is a method for recording moves. An annotation can be done using any notation.

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