Lessons in the Fundamentals: Ji (地)

Dia.1 - Territory

The ultimate goal of the game of Go is to surround territory (地, ji). All the empty intersections that stand surrounded by your stones count as points (目, moku). In order to effectively surround territory, a basic understanding of shape and how to deploy effective shapes must be achieved. In Diagram 1, you can conclude that white 9 points of territory using 6 stones, while black surrounds only 4 points of territory, using the same number of stones.The edges of the board are, in principle, the best place to start acquiring territory: the edges form a natural border that makes it much more difficult for any invasion to succeed. Additionally, playing a stone into secured territory will decrease your score by one point and waste an otherwise valuable move.

Effective ways to secure territory in an actual game

As a beginner, you should bear in mind that it is easier to make territory on the corners, and from there, stake a claim on the sides. Many beginners find it tempting to open a game at Tengen (天元 ), the centermost point of the board, which is usually not beneficial for those that have not developed a firm grasp of the game. Tengen surrounds no territory, and either allows the opponent to calmly take the corners and sides for himself, or invites direct fighting. Situations arising from playing at tengen can be quite difficult for experienced players to manage, let alone beginners.