PGN stands for Portable Game Notation. It is a standard plain-text format used to record chess games. PGN files contain the detailed moves and other information related to a chess game, making it possible to store and share game data in a universal and readable format.
A typical PGN file consists of two main sections. The header section holds metadata about the game, such as player names, event details, date, result, and other relevant information. This section uses tag pairs to specify each metadata item. For example, the tag pair [Event "World Chess Championship"] signifies the event name. The actual chess moves, known as the game section, follow the header section. The moves are written in a specific format, usually in algebraic notation, where each move is designated by the piece and its destination square.
PGN files are widely supported by chess software and databases, enabling players to save, analyze, and share their games across different platforms. They can be opened and viewed using various chess programs or even on web browsers. Additionally, PGN files can be easily copied and pasted into text documents or websites.
Due to its simplicity and compatibility, PGN has become a popular choice for sharing and archiving chess games. It allows players to review and study games, as well as enables chess communities to analyze and discuss different strategies and variations.
