Last updated on June 8, 2025
There are many prerequisites to adopting a winning style of play. In this Deluxe Backgammon post for beginners, we examine how you can acquire a more productive and successful style of play. Here are 10 tips for winning at backgammon.
1. Watch successful backgammon players and take note of their cube decisions.
Observation is one of the best ways to learn how to play. If you have any questions about specific moves or decisions, then ask after the match is complete. Most backgammon players are only too happy to share their thoughts on gameplay.
2. Play in chouettes with skilful players and pose questions in critical situations.
In normal play, it would be considered poor etiquette or even cheating to take advice from onlookers. However, in a chouette, as part of a team, collusion is generally expected. It provides a great opportunity to ask questions and learn from better players (Backgammon Chouette at Backgammon Galore).
3. Teach the game to beginners.
Teaching is a great way to reinforce and expand your backgammon knowledge. It is also useful for players of all standards to periodically review the basics. Take some time to spend with some novices and teach them the basics of the game. Undoubtedly, some of the questions they will ask will make you pause and think. Not only will teaching increase your knowledge of the game, but it also introduces backgammon to a new generation of players (Win at backgammon at wikiHow).
4. Play at a consistent rate, that is don’t rush your decisions.
Even if a move looks obvious, consider all of your alternatives. It is good practice to consider every possible move before committing to a decision. It does take time and a sense of self-control, but the results will be worth the effort in the long run.
5. Be consistent in doubling decisions.
Even if you feel you are losing, it doesn’t make sense to accept a bad double, in the hope of an unlikely victory. The losing points add up, which is a costly method of getting even. Reject the bad double and trust in your ability to win back points at a later stage in the match.
6. Play the numbers.
Probability will deliver better results in the long run as opposed to relying on good luck. Understand the basic maths behind the game so that you can make decisions that will work in your favour over time. Remember that luck is fleeting and generally evens out over time (Odds and Probabilities at GammonVillage).
7. Adopt a positive attitude against all opponents good or bad.
Your thinking controls your game. Play with the expectation of winning. Positive thoughts produce positive actions and results. Psychology plays a huge part in the game, don’t let a stretch of bad luck force you into playing negatively. Make decisions based on analysis and avoid playing with a sense of fear.
8. Seize the Golden points.
The 5-point in your home board is referred to as the “Golden Point”. However, if you manage to secure the opponent’s 5-point, it is known as the “Golden Anchor”. The Golden Point is the key to building a strong prime on your side of the board, which is ideal for blocking your opponent’s back checker. Holding the Golden Anchor prevents your opponent from gaining the same advantage (Anchor at the USBGF).
9. Never race when you are behind.
Playing a running game strategy with an opponent that is ahead in the race isn’t wise. Instead of continuing to move your back checkers forward, opt for a more defensive strategy to stall your opponent’s progress and wait until you can strike with a counter-offensive. Learn to pip count so you can assess your position in the race. Become familiar with the holding and back game strategies (Backgammon strategies at The Spruce Crafts).
10. Develop a winning technique.
To do this, you should learn the correct plays for all of the opening moves and understand the key tactics and strategies of the game. Always remember that the more you play backgammon, the better you will get, as practice makes perfect. The most enjoyable wins in backgammon are hard-fought, where the winner doesn’t rely on luck but rather by outplaying their opponent through strategy and tactics.
Summary
Apply these 10 tips for winning at backgammon, and you will see your game improve. However, if you want further improvement, look at our Deluxe Backgammon Playing Guides.
Related content
How to win at backgammon by wikiHow.
No.3 is my pick. Teach the game to beginners. Gives you the chance to refresh and go over the basics. And you introduce new players to the game.
Hi Phil, you make some good points. Backgammon, back to basics is a post that covers your point about refreshing your knowledge of the game. Keep teaching thos beginners and thanks for taking the time to comment, Deluxe Backgammon