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order of play

The order in which Go moves are played, including the timing of moves in a local sequence or larger plan.

Also known as

move order

Order of play, also called move order, is the order in which moves are played in a Go sequence or position. It includes deciding when to play a move and how to arrange the moves in a local exchange or a broader plan.

Changing the order can alter the opponent’s replies, whether a move is sente or gote, tactical results, and the final outcome of the sequence. The aim is to choose the most effective timing, often keeping the initiative or stopping the opponent from gaining an advantage.

Order of play concerns move order itself, not a fixed pattern such as a joseki, though correct move order is often essential in joseki and tactical sequences. A move order that succeeds in one position may fail in another because surrounding stones, liberties, sente, or available replies differ.