When you play the AI oppenent in training mode, it seems possible to beat him or come close. When you play the same AI charactor in a rated game, it's very hard to beat the opponent. I know it's suppose to be more like a real match, but the same charactor has suddenly gone up a couple ratings. How are you suppose to train against this charactor when he/she is not playing up to his/her potential in training mode? Any insight? Thanks.

Are you using the same time controls for your games in Training mode and Ranked Play? If you're used to playing a long game in Training Mode, and switch to a shorter game in Ranked Play, that might be the issue.

Other than the fact that your rating is calculated (and hints are available from the Chess Coach), Training mode is the same as Ranked Play.

Don't get me wrong. I've had the same experiences, but I think that it's mostly psychological -- somehow because a rating means something, you're under more pressure and therefore, you play differently. However, in my case, differently doesn't necessarily mean better.