Doubling Backgammon Strategy Using PRAT

PRAT is a popular backgammon strategy used to decide when to use the backgammon doubling cube. It is based on evaluation of three criteria in the backgammon game. The 'P' stands for position; the 'RA' stands for race and the 'T' stands for threats. The simple backgammon strategy is that if the player is ahead on two of the three criteria he should use the backgammon doubling cube.

There are several issues involved in assessing the position of the backgammon game. The number of checkers back, anchor position, prime position and greater flexibility are some of them. Even novice backgammon players can easily assess whose position is better - theirs or their opponent's.

Evaluating race is simpler. If there is no contact between checkers then it boils down to the number of checkers left in the backgammon game or if one wants to be more thorough it depends on the pip count. The player with the lower pip count is ahead in the race. If there is contact between checkers some adjustment may need to be made.

The last criterion for the backgammon strategy in the context of the backgammon doubling cube is the evaluation of threats. Threats are assessed on the basis of the danger of being gammoned or the number of checkers in danger of being shot.

There are compelling reasons why PRAT is a popular backgammon strategy for the use of the backgammon doubling cube. It is not quantitative in the sense it does not involve calculation of game winning chances or equity. At the same time it goes beyond mere hunches and gut feeling. It is the ideal middle path.