Backgammon Tips

Always have a well devised plan. Even though the plan may change from roll to roll, concentrate on how to win the game the best way.

It is important to learn how to use match equity tables for better gaming. Make your match doubling and decisions using this table.

Use Woolsey's law for doubling

Try and see yourself from your opponent's point of view. If you think of dropping if doubled, then it ought to be a good double.

Corollary to Woolsey's Law

If you never turn the cube, you never give your opponent a chance to make a mistake.

Always try to double when the game is not likely to cost you anything. For example you are down 0-2 and win the next game. You must double on your first roll of the next game. If you lose you lose, but if you win the game, you win the match.

Redoubling

When your opponent doubles you to two, you can redouble to four anytime it's your turn to roll. For instance, you are 1-0 behind and your opponent doubles. It is important that you turn the cube on the next roll. If you lose the game you lose overall, but if you win the game you win the match.

Typically the break

even point for accepting a double is 25%. Thus if your chances of winning are 25% then you must take. For example if you have played 4 games and doubled. If you drop you lose 4 points. With 25% you are bound to win 2 points and lose 6 getting a minus 4 and thus even out.

If you compelled to leave a shot, put your checkers where they will do the most good if not hit.

Backgammon is a game played best by a person who makes the least amount of errors. Never make a move until you have decided on a couple of good alternatives. The worst mistake is made by not seeing the best move.

Learn about the history of backgammon, its journey from the ancient age to the digital age.