Backgammon Tips

• The break-even point for accepting a double is about 25%. That is, if your chances of winning the game are at least 25%, you should take it then. Why? Suppose you play 4 games in which you're doubled. If you drop every time, you'll lose 4 points. If you take and win 25% of the games, one of four, you'll win 2 points and lose 6 - a net of minus 4. So it evens out. Of course, this doesn't consider gammons (if you have a significant chance of getting gammoned, you're more apt to drop).



• Always double when it can't cost! Suppose you are down 2-0 in a match to 3. You win the next game, the Crawford game, and are now down 2-1. There is NO reason not to double on your first roll of the next game! If you lose the game, so what? Losing 4-1 and losing 3-1 are the same thing. But this way, if you WIN the game, you win the match.



• Don't always make the safe move! In many cases it is better to make a risky move.



• Always have a plan. The plan may change from one roll to the next, but always be focusing on how you can win the game, or if a loss is very likely, how to save the gammon.



• Learn how to use match equity tables and make your match doubling and taking decisions based on them.



• When you must leave an open shot, put your checkers where they will do the most good if not hit.



• Never make a move until you have identified at least one or two viable alternatives