Basics of Life and Death on the Side

As with the six- and eight-point-shape the corner, there are basic patterns on the side that you should learn. Here are two cases that are easy to memorize. Knowing them is very useful, because they occur so often.

Six dead, eight alive

The Japanese expression ６死８生 means ‘six dead, eight alive’ and refers to the number of stones that are needed to make life on the second line at the side.

Diagram 2 — Dia. 1

At the side of the go board 6 stones are dead.

Diagram 3 — Dia. 2

With seven stones, it depends on who plays first (verify yourself).

Diagram 4 — Dia. 3

Eight stones are alive: Even if white Hane on both sides (black blocks, of course) four spaces remain inside.

Four dead, six alive

On the third line as well, there is a number based mnemonic device.

Diagram 5 — Dia. 4

On the third line four stones are dead.

Diagram 6 — Dia. 5

However, five stones can live.

Diagram 7 — Dia. 7

If black starts, it is possible to make life as shown. A or B instead of 7 also make a living shape.

Diagram 8 — Dia. 8

The tiger mouth at 3 instead of descending is a fatal mistake.

Diagram 10 — Dia. 9

With six stones, black is alive even if white goes first (verify for yourself).

Practical application

Diagram 11 — Dia. 10

Consider the two stone extension of the black stones. If black fails to escape to the center, they will be forced to make life in a very restricted area. Knowing the basic principles shown above helps judging a position, i.e. anticipating danger aka. Aji.