One of the things we have noticed is that newer players often struggle with playing the opening roll. The playing of the opening roll has been extensively analyzed and the correct play(s) for each is well established.
A good brief overview of opening moves can be found at https://www.backgammonforlosers.com/opening-moves/ Don’t let the name of the site or the associated book deter you, it is a very good resources on the basics of backgammon.
If you do nothing else read this brief introduction and learn the opening moves for the various rolls, there are only 15 possible opening rolls so it is not that big of a task, and many of the plays are obvious once you see them.
mkebackgammon.org 