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I'm Just Not That Smart

Posted By: Stanley E. Richards
Date: Friday, 10 December 2010, at 6:05 p.m.

In Response To: Disagree with Stick's Book Review (Stanley E. Richards)

Matt asked if I could reach an XG 3.5 with my method. My initial response was “I’m not sure.” My final answer is “No Way!”

I remember Stick posting about the laughably small amount of memorization which is required in backgammon compared to chess. Many of you have such great memories that you can apply a “chess-like” approach to backgammon. Some of us just do not possess such memories.

I’m just not smart enough to study backgammon as many of you approach the game. My point is that if one simply concentrates on the basics of backgammon that one can still become an outstanding player. Rich estimated about 1 out of 100,000 backgammon players can play at a 5.0 PR. As an exclusive online player of 5 to 9 point matches for money, I know that about 2% to 4% of my competitors play at a 6.0 PR or better. One reason that I am comfortable in stating my 5.9 PR over the last 100 matches is that this level cannot be considered bragging at this site. Many BGO players play much better than this. Nevertheless, if your goal is to become better than 95% of online money players, my approach suffices.

My confidence in my intelligence is not suffering. I graduated with high honors in engineering for a reason. Nevertheless, I recognize that this very difficult game attracts people who are more gifted in math, logic, memory, and science than I. I submit that mastering the complexities of the most difficult backgammon problems is beyond many players. Memorizing hundreds of first, second, and third opening moves is more than many of us can handle. Thus, books which are excellent in teaching the basics may be more beneficial than other books. Actually, backgammon is so challenging that basic concept books can range from intermediate to expert.

The best beginning/intermediate book is Lamford’s Starting Out in Backgammon. The best advance/expert book is Robertie’s Modern Backgammon.

Stanley

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