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In exceptionally simple terms, there are 3 main game plans used. You need to be able to hop between game plans instantly as the action of the game unfolds.

The Blockade

This comprises of assembling a 6-deep wall of checkers, or at least as thick as you might manage, to block in the competitor's checkers that are on your 1-point. This is judged to be the most suitable strategy at the start of the match. You can build the wall anyplace within your 11-point and your 2-point and then shuffle it into your home board as the match continues.

The Blitz

This involves locking your home board as quick as as you can while keeping your challenger on the bar. e.g., if your challenger tosses an early 2 and moves one checker from your one-point to your three-point and you then toss a 5-5, you can play 6/1 six/one 8/3 8/3. Your opponent is then in big-time calamity because they have two pieces on the bar and you have locked half your home board!

The Backgame

This strategy is where you have 2 or higher anchors in your opponent's home board. (An anchor spot is a point consisting of at a minimum two of your checkers.) It needs to be employed when you are significantly behind as it much improves your opportunities. The best areas for anchors are close to your competitor's lower points and also on adjoining points or with a single point separating them. Timing is crucial for a competent backgame: after all, there is no point having two nice anchors and a solid wall in your own inner board if you are then required to break up this straight away, while your competitor is getting their pieces home, taking into account that you do not have any other extra checkers to shift! In this situation, it is more tolerable to have pieces on the bar so that you might preserve your position up until your challenger gives you an opportunity to hit, so it can be a wonderful idea to attempt and get your challenger to get them in this case!