One of the greatest mistakes beginning backgammon players make is assuming that backgammon is more like checkers than chess. Your backgammon pieces may be called checkers, but backgammon strategies are as complex, nuanced, and studied as anything you'd find on a chess board.
Anchoring
Anchoring is a fundamental part of backgammon strategies. Your opponent cannot land on any point occupied by two or more of your checkers. Establishing anchors in your opponent's home board will prevent him from bearing off and leave him vulnerable to a blot being hit, especially if you hold two consecutive points.
Hit and Run and Candlesticks
Most beginning players employ one of two backgammon strategies: hit and run, or candlesticks. Neither course will be successful in the long run. Hit and run means racing to your home board while taking all available shots at your opponent's blots. Candlesticks is the very cautious backgammon strategy of anchoring and blocking and exposing few blots.
With experience you will begin to use backgammon strategies that focus on smart positioning and a mix of safe and bold play. Don't be afraid to pass on shots or expose blots if it will help you build a strong offensive or defensive position.
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Distribution and Connectivity
Another advantage of avoiding candlesticks is that your backgammon strategies will become more flexible. Good checker distribution will help you take advantage of your rolls. Adjust your backgammon strategies as the board positions change.
No Child Left Behind
Don't assume that the best backgammon strategy is to always move the checkers that are farthest from your quadrant. A strong defensive position late in the game can put the pressure on your opponent, especially if you hit a blot while your home board is nearly full.
Study
Your backgammon strategies will benefit from practice, but you can also draw on the experience of veteran players by studying backgammon strategy books. Backgammon by Paul Magriel has long been cited as the Bible of backgammon beginners, but we also recommend reading more recent publications such as Robin Clay's Backgammon: Winning Strategies and Paul Lamford's Starting Out in Backgammon.
