Some Backgammon Terms and Tips
There are many backgammon game terms that a novice player needs to learn. Mere definition of terms can sometimes be too abstract though. Explaining the terms in the context of tips makes them more memorable. So here are a few backgammon game terms and tips.
Blots and Hits
Even a novice backgammon game player already knows that a blot is a single checker on a point, open to a hit. A hit is when your opponent's move lands on your blot.
When hit, the checker goes to the bar. A player who has a checker on the bar cannot make any other move except to bring that checker back into the game through the 24 point.
Try to avoid leaving blots. If you have no choice, remember that you suffer a greater loss when a checker close to home is hit. The farther out a checker is, the smaller your loss. Consider this when deciding which checker to protect and which one to risk.
Slotting
Slotting means intentionally making a blot on a strategic point that you intend to occupy. It is a risk that you will have to weigh carefully. Often, the risk is taken in order to occupy the opponent's 5 point or 4 point.
Knowing what risks to take and when to take it is a skill that you need to develop keenly in backgammon. Experts advise that checkers can be exposed in the early part of a game for purposes of offense or defense, but it is better to bring your checkers together toward the latter part of the game.
Duplication
When you are forced to make or leave a blot, strive to maintain a uniform distance between your blots and your opponent's checkers. This is called duplication in backgammon. It means there is only a single number your opponent must get in order to make a hit. This greatly limits your opponent's chances of hitting.
You can also use this to protect your blot when your opponent has a checker on the bar. Make sure that the number required for your opponent to hit your blot is the same number required for your opponent's checker to re-enter the game.
Diversification
Diversification is the opposite of duplication in backgammon. You use this to your advantage when you ensure that the gaps between your checkers vary greatly. This way, you get a higher probability of getting a good move with every roll. Make sure, though, that your checkers are always within six points from each other.
The sooner you absorb these terms and tips into your backgammon game, the better you will get at using them to win.