Get better at chess

So far, I’ve played on Yahoo about 3 times, and lost every game. I did buy myself a Chess board and book, but the book was stolen (!?) and it’s pretty hard to get someone who wants to play chess!

Help!

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I know the basic moves, and have an understanding of the notation used in books. However, I have no knowledge of tactics to use or different game plans. Hmmm…perhaps I should start with the absolute basics then.

How to you judge being better at chess?