Grandmaster Edmar Mednis, a world expert on the endgame, shows how to proceed in the minimum number of moves from the opening to a favorable endgame, essentially avoiding the middle game. He analyzes 11 different openings, including open and closed systems, in each case explaining the best routes to particular endgame positions. These positions are analyzed, using master games to illustrate various winning plans. Because of the clear exposition of endgame principles, the student will learn not only about these specific positions, but also about the endgame in general.