Backgammon: A Battle Between Opposing Strategies
Most novice backgammon players reveal their checkers and hit his opponent's checkers time and again. But it was proven that this tactic, even if it looks sound is not likely the best strategy. Listed below are several factors worth considering in creating a winning plan.
How to distribute the pieces
Make sure to equally distribute all your checkers on the table's surface. You seldom have to put six or more checkers in one position. If your checkers are not equally dispensed chances are you will have less flexibility in taking advantage of the dice's roll. Try to position checkers in a way to gain advantage of good rolls. In addition, make sure that your checkers are posted at a maximum six spaces between them; this will be useful in case one of your pieces is covered.
When to reveal your checkers
At the start of the game, feel free to leave some of your checkers expose. This tactic in a way will help you build a better offensive move or a defensive play. Also, this exposed checkers will be a good "bridge" to step on. At the latter part of the game, (especially if you are holding an inferior position) strengthening your position is the best tactic.
Piece-jam
So as to thwart your opponent's checkers from escaping at your home board, make an effort to place your checkers face-to-face with their counterpart (there should be spaces in-between checkers) getting them stuck.
Hitting
Usually it is best to hit your opponent's most advanced checker. However, a player should only attempt to hit a particular piece if it will be advantageous to his position.
As an illustration; try to strike the checkers that soon afterward will be covered to stop your opponent in occupying a vital position. It is a no-no to hit an opponent checker that is already on the line. Avoiding such attempt will help you build another important position. But if you're really keen on hitting a piece, make sure that your checkers are covered in case your opponent hits you in return. Always keep track of the checkers you desire to hit.
Establishing anchors
Attempt to make an anchor or defensive positions in your opponent's home board. This action serves two purposes: first, your checkers will have a place if ever you're hit and second, your opponent is deprived of a home. The positions after line 20 and 21 are the most important a player should occupy at the start of the game. If in the course of the game you are doubled, lines (22, 23, 24) which happens to be the farthest positions away from the line are the most important that a player must occupy. Establishing an adjacent anchor is the best thing a player can do. You can on purpose leave checkers exposed in order to create anchors.