Hi Sia,
You know the rules,yes, when you play, try to make sure, when you move, that the piece is being protected by another, your opponent generally then won't take your piece, unless its to their advantage.
Another tip, is to ask yourself why, you have to assume that your opponent has a reason for making their last move, so just sit there, say to yourself, why have you done that?, see which square that piece would end up in, on their next move, also see if they have another piece that could move to the same square.
Thats enough to be going on with,
ummmm,
Thats one beautiful Chess Table, ever you decide to sell it, let me know.