Quote from: wagnmkrThanks for that Marv.
No, I did not know that wee gem of information as I am a complete newbie. One of my wishes as I blew out the candles on my 80th birthday cake was that I wanted to learn the game if I could. This is the start!!
Since a player starts off with eight pawns, it's theoretically possible for him to have nine queens in play. However, the chances of this happening are vanishingly small. Even three queens is very rare.
When using the more common Staunton pattern set, a promoted queen is often indicated by an upside down rook.
My experience is that pawn promotion is more useful as a threat, rather than a fait accompli. Tying up several of your opponent's pieces trying to block or capture a pawn near the eighth rank gives you time to set up your own traps.
The other move you'll need to study is castling. It's the only move where you're allowed to move two of your pieces and you can only do it once per game. Unlike promotion, it occurs frequently so understanding it and using it is essential.