So how do you play Yu-Gi-Oh part 2

 

So what is the significance of spell speeds 1, 2, and 3 maybe a 4th???

Spell speed 1

These effects can be categorized as the slowest of the three spell speeds out there,  effects that start their sentences with "Once per turn" typically are spell speed one. In which case these effects can't typically chain to other effects but if multiple effects activate around the same time then spell speed one effects can chain to each other.

Spell speed 2

These effects are more commonly seen as effects that can be activate from either players turn. These cards can come in the form of a specific type of spell, all trap cards, and monster effects that state that they are "(quick effects.)"

Spell speed 3

These are the fastest of the spell speeds, there is only one type of card that can utilize these effects and those are counter traps which I will showcase down below for the examples of cards. Counter traps can only be chained by other counter traps which is why it makes these cards much more powerful.

Spell speed 1 spell 

Spell speed one monster

Spell speed 2 spell

Real quick this card above is known as a quick play spell you can tell the difference by the little symbol next to the words "spell card."

Spell speed 2 monster

You can tell this card is a quick effect because the effect has quick effect stated in parenthesis.

And once again let me remind you that all normal trap cards are spell speed 2.

Now for spell speed 3 cards which are generally all counter trap cards.

You can tell this from a normal trap by looking at the symbol next to the words "trap card."

But wait is there a spell speed 4???

Well yes and no, while officially there is no such card that Konami has appointed the title of spell speed 4 the community has given this title to cards that cannot be chained to because the card itself forbids it.

An example of a spell speed 4 is:

This card states in the end of the effect that neither player can chain or activate cards and effects in response to its effect. Leaving the opponent to just sit and take all the consequences.