Backgammon Tips. Part 1

1. If you can make two points in your board and point on their head, do it. Making points in order is not as important as making points.

2. Doubles are the hardest rolls to play correctly. It's recommended that you play them as simply as possible.

3. Don't take unnecessary risks on the hope that they will work out.

4. Don't be afraid to shift from the six point. Anytime you can put your opponent on the bar against a 4 point board, do so.

5. Don't bury your builders deep.

6. Look at plays that increase your gammon chances and weigh the risk involved. If you have your opponent on the ropes, don't hesitate to knock them out!

7. When faced with prime vs. prime situations, it is important for you to have the prime in the first place because winning without it is unlikely. You need a prime to get your opponent to break theirs. Take the risks necessary to win the game.

8. Many expert players will make the mistake of putting their checkers where they will be the most useful instead of playing deep behind enemy checkers. Don't leave unnecessary shots when your opponent has a strong board or prime simply to make a "pure" play.

9. Many times, when a game appears to be all but over, players will tend to get lazy and simply bring their checkers around the board without giving it much thought. However, it pays to be vigilant. Many games have been won from a 1pt anchor, so always stay on your toes. Don't allow your opponent get an anchor.
Remember: Anchors in your home board Bad; opponent's checkers on the bar Good.

10. Play aggressively when behind and trying to contain that last checker. Slot needed points in your board and in your primes. If you get hit that's just one more checker you have back to hit them with when they're on their way around!