1) In studying Karpov's games, there are two qualities that stand out (among many things). First, his sense of timing of when to sacrifice/push and when to play more quietly. Second, his precision when it comes to preventing his opponent's counterplay... 2) As an example, look at this position with white to play: #chesspunks

1) I played a classical OTB game in Rochester, NY last night (which I won in a miniature). More interestingly, I learned of the passing of László Tapasztó, who was rated about 2400 when I played him 20 years ago. Although I cannot say I knew the man well... 2) I remember distinctly what he said to me after our game: "You're only 1400? You are much stronger!" I remember feeling really encouraged as he was one of the area's strongest players and I was trying to improve my game.