Etiquette in backgammon, in common with most other games, is an unwritten code of practice. It is split into two sections; commonsense and formal behaviour. With any board game that involves two players, there are certain codes of ethics that should be followed. In chess, players do not remind each other of the time, nor do players laugh at bad hands played in poker. These are considered to be in poor taste. In backgammon, similar rules apply. Too often, there are players who hold little respect for their opponent or for the game. Also, many times we might not realize that a habit is actually considered rude. The rules listed below are designed to assist players in recognizing how to act during a backgammon match, both online and offline.

Most of the code is commonsense. Some players, not necessarily gamblers, depend so much on victory in a game that they may become unsportsmanlike in their efforts to secure it. Blowing smoke, whistling, humming – just a few distractions. The best advice to the beginner is to think of backgammon as a game that depends so much on dice that no defeat can lead to disgrace.

The second branch of etiquette deals with formalities. Most of them sound exaggerated but they become necessary in clubs and tournaments when backgammon is a fierce contest rather than a delightful pastime. Not all backgammon players are faultless and the rules are there to prevent abuse.

First and foremost, you must learn how to handle the dice properly. They are the most sensitive part of the game's equipment. You must place then in the dice cup, shake them well and throw them in your right-hand table. If a die jumps out of the table or does not fall square, then you must throw both dice again.

If the throw is correct, you should not touch the dice again before completing your moves. Your opponent must not have to rely on his memory. He should be able to see what moves you are doing. When you have finished your moves, you should pick up the dice and place them in your dice cup, ready for your next throw. You should never take away one die as an indication that you have played that number. This is misleading. Both dice should be thrown and retrieved together.

When playing a game, any game, manners count. If you treat your opponent the way you’d like to be treated, then chances are you will always be able to find an opponent willing to face you. If you act scornfully towards your opponent or patronize him, he will probably not return for a re-match. That means that you shouldn't act self-satisfied when you like your roll, or when your opponent rolls an unfortunate roll.

Remember that when you are playing online backgammon, there is a real person behind the board, even if he is thousands of miles away, in another continent, or a different time zone. He wants to enjoy the game, just as you do, and he wants a fair and equitable game. Let him concentrate when he needs to, and wait for him to finish his move before you throw your dice.

Take a moment at the end of the game to say “thanks” just like you would in real life. It doesn’t cost a rent.