How to Make Use of the Pip Count in Backgammon

Timing is an important part of backgammon since the general theme of this game is that of a race between two parties. The pip count is a practical tool to figure out who is leading the game. It can also become the basis of other strategic moves and other strategic decisions.

The pip count is a tool that any player can use to figure out how far behind or how far ahead is he in the game. It is simply a tally of the total number of steps needed by all of a player's checkers to reach the home board and get borne off. The pip count is usually calculated manually when played offline but when you use a computer or play online the pip count is done automatically.

The pip count is important especially when you're figuring out what to move next. For example, when you are about ten percent ahead of your opponent in the pip count this would generally indicate that you are the clear favorite to win this game. The player who is really behind can go for risky moves since he is now in dire straits.

When a player is leading in the pip count this would allow that player to play safe and risk free moves. There is basically no point in making things complicated when all you need to do is leave your opponent far behind and take the prize.

Players who are ahead in the backgammon pip count usually play conservatively. If you're leading you are less likely to hit and more likely to make safer moves. This also means you will leave less blots or no blots at all when you're in the lead. But that doesn't necessarily mean that you won't hit when the opportunity comes. Hitting when it is quite safe will eventually be for your own good in the long run.

When your behind in the pip count you would want to keep in close contact with your opponent. You would always be on the look out for a chance to hit (or at times be hit in order to create blocking points on the opposing home board). Those who are behind in the pip count will leave blots and take greater risks just to establish contact with the opposing army. This also means that you will hit blots even if it leaves blots in the process.

The pip count is a simple yet impressive tool that every player should use. It will be a great help when you finally have to decide on critical moves in backgammon.

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