In very simple terms, there are 3 general tactics employed. You must be able to switch strategies quickly as the course of the match unfolds.
The Blockade
This consists of creating a 6-thick wall of checkers, or at least as thick as you are able to manage, to block in your competitor’s checkers that are on your 1-point. This is deemed to be the most suitable tactic at the start of the match. You can create the wall anywhere inbetween your 11-point and your two-point and then shift it into your home board as the match continues.
The Blitz
This involves locking your home board as fast as as you can while keeping your competitor on the bar. For example, if your competitor tosses an early two and shifts one checker from your one-point to your 3-point and you then toss a 5-5, you will be able to play six/one six/one 8/3 eight/three. Your opposer is now in serious dire straits since they have two pieces on the bar and you have locked half your inside board!
The Backgame
This strategy is where you have 2 or more anchors in your opponent’s home board. (An anchor is a position occupied by at a minimum 2 of your pieces.) It would be employed when you are extremely behind as it much improves your opportunities. The best places for anchor spots are towards your opponent’s smaller points and either on adjacent points or with a single point separating them. Timing is essential for an effectual backgame: after all, there’s no point having two nice anchors and a solid wall in your own home board if you are then required to dismantle this right away, while your opposer is shifting their pieces home, owing to the fact that you do not have any other additional pieces to move! In this case, it is more favorable to have pieces on the bar so that you might preserve your position up until your opposer gives you a chance to hit, so it may be a great idea to attempt and get your opponent to get them in this situation!