The best way to play backgammon is similar to tennis: it should be played in games, points, sets, matches and tournaments. A player wins one or more points by winning a game, and wins a set by winning a predetermined number of points. The recommended set size is seven points. The first player who obtains seven or more points wins the set. This allows a match to consist of several sets, increase strategy and reduces the element of luck and impact of an unfortunate game. Whether played for money, glory, or love of the game, all of the elements and strategy of backgammon come into play and are important, including the doubling cube and roll over. If the game is played for a given amount of money for each point, most of the strategy will come into play.

There are a wide variety of strategies that you can use in a game of backgammon. Over here, I will provide 5 simple and effective ways for you to win your first game of backgammon.

Be able to play at a rapid pace, but do not rush

The game is most enjoyable when it's played at a steady pace. A typical game should take about 7 to 10 minutes. Games will be shorter or longer depending on whether and when a player is doubled out. A rapid pace allows a few sets to be played in a reasonable amount of time. Calculators should not be used to make calculations during a backgammon session or game. Calculations should be done manually and quickly to keep the game moving at a steady pace. Play with deliberate haste, but don't rush to the point that you make a mistake. You need to become fluent with the different strategies so that you can play at a rapid pace without making mistakes. You need to constantly assess the situation while your opponent is moving, so that you can make most moves quickly.

Become equally comfortable playing with either color pieces

You will have to learn to play your best from both sides of the board and with both colors of pieces. Though you are used to practicing with the white pieces with your inner board to your right, mix it up when you are playing so that it doesn't matter which combination you have in a given game, set or match.

Insist on not using any of the variants except the roll over

Familiarize yourself with the backgammon variants, because some players may suggest that one or more of the variants be used. Strongly encourage the use of the roll over, but be reluctant to use any other variant or optional rule. This is because the optional rules generally increase the element of luck and are not compatible with playing backgammon in sets and matches.

Do not let your opponent know he made a mistake; that is, do not help him adjust or improve his game

Don't let your expressions tell your opponent that he has made a good or bad roll, move, double or roll-over. Play with serious deliberation regardless of whether your decisions are easy or difficult.

Never give up, even if it appears that you are hopelessly behind

A player's fortune can change suddenly in backgammon, particularly when he uses the correct strategy. Never lose your concentration, get reckless or give up hope. Keep using the preferred strategy to the end. Though it doesn't happen often, players can and have come back to win from what happened to be a hopeless situation. The game is not over till it's over.

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