The best opening move for 1-1 in backgammon is 8/7(2) 6/5(2). The bar and 5-points. Watch it on the board, then read the idea behind it.
The idea behind the move
With 1-1 play 8/7(2) 6/5(2): you make the bar point (the 7-point) and the 5-point. The smallest double gives you two of the most valuable points.
What comes next
You get the 5-, 6- and 7-points in a row: a strong wall. One checker is left on the 8-point, and your back checkers stay on the 24-point.
How to read the move
A move like 24/18 means one checker goes from your 24-point to your 18-point. Points are counted from your side: 24 is the farthest, 1 is the deepest in your home board. “(2)” after a move means you play it with two checkers.