Miscellaneous

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General tips

From:   Hank Youngerman
Address:   HankYoungerman@home.com
Date:   25 August 1998
Subject:   Backgammon Tips
Forum:   rec.games.backgammon
Google:   35e231ec.86915432@news

I have been playing in a group where the quality of play is very weak.
I've been trying to put together a list of "tips."  I was wondering
what readers of this group would put on the list.

Here's what I have so far:

1. Put yourself in your opponent's position.  If doubled, would you
even THINK of dropping?  If so, it must be a good double.  (Woolsey's
Law.)

2a. When in doubt, double.
2b. When in doubt, take.
2c. When in doubt, hit.

3. When you are in no danger of spending time on the bar, move your
checkers where you want them.  If hit, bring them back in and put them
there again.

4. When you have a choice of equally good plays, make the one that is
HARDER to accomplish.

5. When you have to leave a shot, leave your checkers where they will
do the most good if not hit.

6. Every roll is a new cube decision.

7. Whomever has the most blots in the opening usually wins.

8a. "Four in a row is more than you think."
8b. "Five in a row is less than you think."


Any others to add?

And thanks to Woolsey, Robertie, Goulding, and Magriel, who I think
collectively authored all of the above.
 
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