In very general terms, there are 3 basic tactics used. You need to be agile enough to hop between tactics instantly as the action of the match unfolds.
The Blockade
This is comprised of assembling a 6-thick wall of pieces, or at least as deep as you are able to manage, to block in your competitor’s pieces that are on your 1-point. This is judged to be the most adequate course of action at the begining of the match. You can assemble the wall anyplace inbetween your 11-point and your two-point and then shift it into your home board as the game advances.
The Blitz
This involves closing your home board as quickly as as you can while keeping your challenger on the bar. i.e., if your opposer rolls an early two and shifts one checker from your one-point to your 3-point and you then toss a five-five, you will be able to play six/one 6/1 eight/three 8/3. Your opponent is then in serious calamity considering that they have two checkers on the bar and you have locked half your inside board!
The Backgame
This strategy is where you have 2 or higher anchors in your competitor’s home board. (An anchor is a position occupied by at least two of your checkers.) It should be used when you are decidedly behind as it much improves your chances. The strongest areas for anchor spots are near your competitor’s smaller points and also on adjacent points or with a single point in between. Timing is critical for an effectual backgame: besides, there’s no reason having 2 nice anchor spots and a complete wall in your own home board if you are then forced to break apart this right away, while your opposer is shifting their pieces home, seeing that you don’t have any other additional pieces to shift! In this situation, it’s more favorable to have pieces on the bar so that you are able to maintain your position up until your opposer provides you an opportunity to hit, so it will be an excellent idea to try and get your opponent to get them in this case!