Typically, in the last round of open tournaments the level of play is markedly lower, the number of blunders higher.

Errors have nothing to do with luck; they are caused by time pressure, discomfort or unfamiliarilty with a position, distractions, feelings of intimidation, nervous tension, overambition, excessive caution, and dozens of other psychological factors.

Patience is the most valuable trait of the endgame player. In the endgame, the most common errors, besides those resulting from ignorance of theory, are caused by either impatience, complacency, exhaustion, or all of the above.

The business of the endgame is maneuvring to control critical squares, advancing or blockading passed pawns, preparing a breakthrough by the king, or exploiting the subtle superiority of one piece over another.

When you defend, try not to worry or become upset. Keep your cool and trust your position - it's all you've got.

Under no circumstances should you play fast if you have a winning position. Forget the clock, use all your time and make good moves.

I always urge players to study composed problems and endgames.