ChessRanger
Rules & notation

Threefold repetition

A draw may be claimed when the same position occurs three times with the same player to move.

It is the position that must repeat, not the moves — same piece placement, same side to move, same castling and en-passant rights — three times in the game, not necessarily in a row.

It is how perpetual check ends in a draw, and how a player who is worse can save the game by forcing the opponent's pieces to shuffle back and forth.

Why it matters

Recognising an available repetition is a practical drawing resource; missing that your opponent can force one can cost you a win you thought was still alive.

The mistake everyone makes

Repeating the position a third time by accident in a position you were winning, handing the opponent a draw claim.

Related terms

Perpetual check
An unbroken series of checks the opponent can never escape, forcing a draw by repetition.
Fifty-move rule
Either player may claim a draw after 50 moves with no capture and no pawn move.
Fortress
A drawn setup the stronger side cannot break down despite being materially ahead.

See Threefold repetition in your own games

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