Plays to Avoid in Backgammon
The popularity of Backgammon has spawned a cottage industry of guides and strategies. While having several Backgammon strategies is helpful, it also confuses other players. Often they adopt one tactic and use it throughout the game, with disappointing results.
The difference between good and mediocre players is not just the number of strategies that you are familiar with; it is knowing when to use them and at which instance. What seems like a great move now may be a hindrance to your progress in Backgammon later on.
Of the numerous errors that can be made in Backgammon, one of the most frequent is trying to move the checkers into the home board way too early.
Often, a player will use a big roll to move a checker closer to the bearing off position. However, it usually becomes a blot, an easy target for the opponent. If it gets hit, your opponent has established an anchor, and you have not had the chance to even set up your other checkers on the board. Your Backgammon strategy for bearing off should be based on your overall game plan, not just on a single roll.
Another common Backgammon mistake is being too timid. There are players who are hesitant to leave a checker in a certain point, afraid that it will get trapped or hit. Yes, it is possible, but you should include the chances of being hit in your Backgammon strategy. In order to win, you need to take chances. Just having your checkers stuck together will not get you anywhere.
Learn to look at the game, and how it has progressed compared with your strategy. By going over your positions (and your opponent's) you will be able to gauge the amount of risk involved in leaving a checker isolated.
Panic is common, especially among those playing Backgammon for money for the first time. Often, when the opponent gets big consecutive rolls and moves some checkers into the home board, the tendency is to remove the anchors and try to "make a move".
Such a move will throw your Backgammon strategy into disarray, because anchors serve a very important function. They will not only provide you with a strategic reentry point, but also impede the progress of your opponent. By all means keep the anchor there for as long as you can.
When you do get the big rolls, do not go out and attack indiscriminately. If possible, hit the checkers on his 5 point. However, if he has pieces deeper into the home board, then target those.
Everyone starts out as a rookie in Backgammon, even the pros. They all made mistakes and they have become what they are now by learning from it. By learning and better yet, avoiding these mistakes, you will be more adept at Backgammon.