Castling early can improve your king's safety from "summary" of The Mammoth Book of Chess by Graham Burgess
One of the key strategies in chess is to ensure the safety of your king. Castling is a move that can significantly contribute to the protection of your king. By castling early in the game, you are able to quickly place your king in a secure position behind a wall of pawns. This can help shield your king from immediate threats and potential attacks from your opponent. When you castle early, you are also able to connect your rooks, which can be advantageous in the middle and endgame phases of the game. Connected rooks can work together to control key files and ranks, putting pressure on your opponent's position. This can give you a strategic advantage and increase your chances of launching a successful attack. Furthermore, castling early can help you avoid falling into traps or tactical combinations that could exploit the vulnerability of an uncastled king. By securing your king early on, you can prevent your opponent from launching a quick attack against your exposed monarch. This can help you maintain a solid defensive position and keep your opponent on the defensive.- Castling early is a simple yet effective way to improve your king's safety and overall position on the board. By prioritizing the safety of your king and recognizing the importance of castling early, you can set yourself up for a strong middle and endgame, giving yourself the best chance of success in the game of chess.
