Author: Orad Reshef
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Criss-cross pip count
The second pip counting method we will learn, the criss-cross count, is another easy algorithm for calculating the relative count. Like the 321 colourless count, it starts with a crude phase that gives you a count within 5 or so pips and can be further perfected using a unit adjustment refinement phase. The main benefit…
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321 colourless pip count
The 321 count is a colourless pip counting method that produces a relative pip count. It’s a sort of hybrid descendent of Zare’s half-crossover count and Urquhart’s colorless count. It is so easy and works so well that it feels like magic. It’s the first one I learned, and the one I still use most…
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Pip counting
As we’ve seen in the last module, knowing the pip count can be critical to many decisions in a backgammon match. Fortunately, the exact count is provided in mobile apps and in online play. However, when playing over the board, you need to figure out the count for yourself! In this module, we will learn…
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Doubling in closeout positions
Gary managed to bear all his checkers in and had even started bearing them off, but you luckily landed a shot and stopped him. You then managed to close him out! You think you’re the favourite, but are you ahead enough to double? If you do, should Gary take? The cube action for a position…
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Market losers
When you’re considering doubling, one thing you need to keep in mind is if it’s necessary to double at this moment. Typically, you want to delay offering the cube for as long as possible, to creep as close as possible to Point ③ in the spectrum at the very right edge of the doubling window.…
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Cubeful and cubeless equity
In our introduction to the doubling cube, we described, in terms of win percentages, why a player that’s trailing would be willing to accept a double. In a real backgammon game, both plays must consider gammons, which make the story more complicated (albeit way more interesting). For example, compared to a game with 70% win…