In exceptionally simple terms, there are three fundamental game plans employed. You need to be agile enough to switch strategies almost instantly as the action of the match unfolds.
The Blockade
This consists of creating a 6-thick wall of pieces, or at least as deep as you might manage, to barricade in the competitor’s pieces that are on your 1-point. This is considered to be the most acceptable procedure at the begining of the match. You can assemble the wall anywhere inbetween your 11-point and your 2-point and then shift it into your home board as the match progresses.
The Blitz
This involves closing your home board as quick as as you can while keeping your opposer on the bar. i.e., if your competitor tosses an early two and shifts one piece from your one-point to your 3-point and you then toss a five-five, you will be able to play 6/1 six/one 8/3 eight/three. Your challenger is then in big-time trouble considering that they have two checkers on the bar and you have locked half your inside board!
The Backgame
This strategy is where you have two or higher checkers in your competitor’s inner board. (An anchor spot is a position occupied by at least two of your checkers.) It would be employed when you are extremely behind as it greatly improves your chances. The strongest areas for anchors are towards your opponent’s lower points and either on abutting points or with a single point separating them. Timing is critical for a competent backgame: after all, there’s no reason having 2 nice anchor spots and a complete wall in your own inner board if you are then forced to break apart this right away, while your opposer is moving their checkers home, seeing that you do not have other extra checkers to shift! In this case, it is better to have checkers on the bar so that you can preserve your position until your challenger gives you a chance to hit, so it can be a wonderful idea to attempt and get your competitor to hit them in this situation!