In extraordinarily simple terms, there are 3 main techniques employed. You want to be able to switch strategies instantly as the action of the match unfolds.

The Blockade

This consists of creating a 6-deep wall of checkers, or at least as thick as you can manage, to block in your opponent’s checkers that are on your 1-point. This is considered to be the most acceptable strategy at the begining of the match. You can build the wall anywhere inbetween your 11-point and your two-point and then move it into your home board as the game advances.

The Blitz

This is comprised of locking your home board as quick as possible while keeping your competitor on the bar. i.e., if your competitor rolls an early two and moves one piece from your 1-point to your 3-point and you then roll a 5-5, you can play six/one six/one 8/3 8/3. Your opposer is now in serious dire straits because they have 2 pieces on the bar and you have locked half your inner board!

The Backgame

This course of action is where you have two or more anchors in your opponent’s inner board. (An anchor is a position consisting of at least two of your pieces.) It must be played when you are decidedly behind as it greatly improves your circumstances. The better places for anchor spots are near your competitor’s smaller points and also on abutting points or with a single point separating them. Timing is important for an effective backgame: after all, there is no reason having 2 nice anchor spots and a solid wall in your own home board if you are then required to dismantle this right away, while your challenger is shifting their pieces home, because you don’t have any other additional pieces to move! In this situation, it’s more favorable to have checkers on the bar so that you are able to preserve your position up until your competitor provides you a chance to hit, so it will be an excellent idea to attempt and get your challenger to get them in this case!