In very general terms, there are 3 general tactics employed. You want to be able to switch strategies quickly as the action of the match unfolds.

The Blockade

This is comprised of building a 6-thick wall of checkers, or at least as thick as you are able to achieve, to block in your competitor’s checkers that are on your 1-point. This is considered to be the most suitable procedure at the begining of the match. You can assemble the wall anywhere between your 11-point and your two-point and then shuffle it into your home board as the match advances.

The Blitz

This is composed of closing your home board as fast as as you can while keeping your opposer on the bar. e.g., if your opposer rolls an early two and shifts one checker from your 1-point to your 3-point and you then roll a 5-5, you will be able to play six/one six/one 8/3 eight/three. Your challenger is now in big-time difficulty because they have two checkers on the bar and you have closed half your inside board!

The Backgame

This plan is where you have 2 or more checkers in your opponent’s inner board. (An anchor is a position consisting of at least two of your checkers.) It must be employed when you are extremely behind as this strategy much improves your circumstances. The better areas for anchor spots are close to your competitor’s smaller points and also on adjacent points or with one point in between. Timing is essential for a competent backgame: after all, there’s no reason having 2 nice anchors and a solid wall in your own inner board if you are then forced to break up this right away, while your challenger is moving their checkers home, considering that you don’t have other extra checkers to shift! In this situation, it is better to have pieces on the bar so that you are able to maintain your position up till your opposer provides you a chance to hit, so it may be an excellent idea to attempt and get your opposer to get them in this situation!