As with every board game, Backgammon strategies range from the basic to the complex. While it may be tempting to try and implement advance concepts, its virtually impossible unless you know the fundamentals.
1. Distribution is key.
What this means is that your checkers need to be spaced out in such a way that you'll be able to maximize each roll you get. It's not going to matter if you get all sixes if your checkers are all clustered together.
2. Be careful about leaving exposed pieces.
A key element of any Backgammon strategy is knowing when to move your checkers and when. The time will come when you'll have to have a piece isolated, or open to attack. Most newbies are too timid, and end up losing an opportunity to gain advantage.
You need to have shots though, so make sure that you have some pieces in your board, as this will allow you to take more chances.
3. The Running Game
The best Backgammon strategy to use when you get big dice rolls is to employ the run and gun approach. Basically this involves using all your incoming rolls to getting your checkers home. However, this tactic isn't as viable when you get small rolls. If the opportunity isn't there, don't force it.
4. Learn how to build primes.
Backgammon strategies aren't just all about offense. If you don't get the benefit of a good roll early, and find yourself behind the pip count, the best option would be to get into a blocking game, and construct primes. This means aligning several checkers side by side, the objective being to trap the opposing pieces.
This technique is crucial, and needs to be learned by all players who are serious about the game.
5. Set up anchor points.
An anchor point in Backgammon means having at least one checker in the opposing home board; there are several reasons why you should do this, chief among them being it affords you a chance to get back in the game in good position when hit. The best place to place anchors are the high points (20 and higher) and it should be done early in the game.
6. Know the Back Game
If you are way behind and getting low rolls, the Backgammon strategy to use would be the Back Game. Here you install two checkers in your opponent's board, preferably setup like a prime. The purpose is to trap the incoming checkers. By altering the opponent's movement, you stay in the game until you get the right rolls.
7. Keep focused on your overall plan.
Always keep in mind that your checkers are part of a whole; as you play, make sure that they are placed in such a way so that they can help one piece progress to the home board.