[sesm]

Chess engines are very important for grandmasters, for sure. But for beginners they are mostly useless. That’s what I was arguing about.

Regarding openings - the best place to learn are books/studies/even Wikipedia articles that explain the ideas behind the major moves and variations, which chess engines don’t do. Also, a human can explain which opening are good to play at your skill level and which are not.

Regarding free coaches, playing with a friend/relative over the board and discussing the game afterwards has a similar effect.

[tchaffee]

Chess engines aren't useless for beginners. That's an empty claim and is as easily dismissed as it was made.

I gave a list of reasons why a chess engine is good for learning. Refute those as a start.

Here's another reason: an AI engine will point out illegal moves, and patiently over hundreds of games in your home. A free coach isn't going to come to your house and do that.

Neither will most friends or relatives. People get bored and move on.