When a non-doublet is used to move a single checker, if it is possible to do so, Nactation requires that the larger be die moved first. Exceptions occur when there is an an intervening blocking point, or a blot that must be hit or avoided. In the case of of 21/10, we have the 6 being played on the far side of the board, 21/15, and the 5 being played down, 15/10. That puts the play in the S (Split) family. The other plays in the S family are 21/15 13/8 and 24/18 13/8. To determine which one gets the capital letter, check the destinations of blots and spares that are moved during the plays. First, compare destinations in the inner board, then on the far side, and, finally, in the outer board. In the inner board, and on the far side, destinations closer to the six point are preferred. In the outer board, positions are preferred when the checker destination that is closest to the 6pt is as far back as possible. 1st —. S = 21/15 13/8 — Far side blot destination on 15pt In this case, blot and spare destinations in the outer board are irrelevant. By the way, Paul’s Nactation of 53R is precise and correct. Nice job! Both dice are played on the far side, bar/22 18/13, and at least one checker lands somewhere between the 17pt and 13pt (inclusively). Mike | ||||||||||
