About
The 11-12 Rule is a simple rule that gives cube action for 3 checkers on-roll versus a 2-roll position (i.e., 3 or 4 checkers stacked on the ace point). For example:
The 11-12 Rule is described in Art Benjamin's "Math Overboard: Three Checkers Left and Variations" (PrimeTime Backgammon, Winter 2021).
How to use
Step 1: Compute Black's Simply Adjusted Pip Count (SAPC)
The Simply Adjusted Pip Count (SAPC) is the pip count, plus 1 penalty pip if any point has 2 or more checkers stacked on it.
Step 2: Apply the 11-12 Rule
If Black has 3 checkers and White has 3 or 4 checkers on the ace point, the Double/Take window is when Black's SAPC is 11–12. In other words:
| Black's SAPC | Cube action |
|---|
| 10 or less | Double/Pass |
| 11 or 12 | Double/Take |
| 13 or more | No Double/Take |
All doubles are also redoubles.