How Chessbook works

Import and export ​

You can bring existing opening material into Chessbook instead of entering every move by hand. Open Repertoire settings → Import to choose a source.

What can I import? ​

  • PGN: upload a file or paste PGN text containing the moves you want to use.
  • Lichess studies: connect to Lichess and choose a study to import.
  • Your Lichess or Chess.com games: use moves from your own games as a starting point for a repertoire.

Importing your games and connecting an account for ongoing game tracking serve different purposes. An import helps build your repertoire; account tracking helps compare later games with the moves you have saved.

What if I already have a move in that position? ​

When a pre-made repertoire conflicts with moves you already have, Chessbook offers Skip moves I've already covered or Replace my existing moves. Check that choice before completing the import.

A pre-made repertoire can also be imported and adapted. You do not have to treat its recommendations as permanent choices.

How do I export my repertoire? ​

Open Repertoire settings → Export to PGN. PGN is a chess notation format you can use in other chess tools.

You can trim sideline transpositions for a smaller file, or include all transpositions for tools that expect each route through the repertoire to be written out. A transposition is a different move order that reaches the same position.

Locked moves are omitted from the export. The export screen explains when your repertoire contains locked moves, so check that notice if you need a complete copy.