Chess is a very consuming game and it needs your focus, attention, and strategy skills. To win a game, you need chess strategy and tactics. That may seem alike to you but they are not.
Chess strategy and tactics are differentiated by long term and short term. A chess strategy is a strategy you use for the entirety of the game - you move your pieces in a way that is harmonious and interconnected.
On the other hand, chess tactics are for short term goals. Chess tactics are a series of moves that help you get your pieces where you want to be. A tactic could be a fork, a pin, or a sacrifice. A tactic can be used to make your opponent move a zugzwang which means an undesirable move. It means a urging or compulsion to move in German.
Chess strategies are used in your opening, middle game and end game. All three aspects of the game are important and should be balanced. Your opening should provide opportunity for your middle game and your middle game should help you end the game and achieve your goal of capturing your opponent's king or a check mate.
Chess strategy and tactics are learned through vigorous and constant play. You can also read up on chess strategy and tactics, practice them on your board. It is best to be familiar with the chess board before employing all sorts of chess strategy and tactics. Remember, chess strategy and tactics are used to achieve a main goal, they are not the end themselves.
