So, what’s darts score? Simply put, in darts, your score is the total number of points you accumulate by throwing darts at a numbered dartboard. This article will delve deeper into understanding different scoring systems, strategies, and common questions surrounding darts scoring, equipping you to become a more informed player or spectator.
⚠️ Still Using Pen & Paper (or a Chalkboard)?! ⚠️
Step into the future! The Dart Counter App handles all the scoring, suggests checkouts, and tracks your stats automatically. It's easier than you think!
Try the Smart Dart Counter App FREE!Ready for an upgrade? Click above!
Understanding how to calculate and strategize around your score is crucial for success in darts. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, mastering the scoring system is the foundation of the game. This guide will break down everything you need to know, from the basics to more advanced techniques.
What’s Darts Score: A Detailed Look at the Scoring System
The standard dartboard features numbers from 1 to 20, each with a double and a triple ring surrounding the main number. The bullseye at the center is worth 50 points (the outer bull) and 25 points (the inner bull). What’s darts score in a particular round depends on where your darts land. If a dart hits the number 20, it scores 20 points. If it hits the triple 20, it’s worth 60 points (20 x 3). Similarly, a dart in the double 20 area counts as 40 points (20 x 2). The total score for a turn is the sum of all darts thrown in that turn. Many beginners find it hard to understand the strategy involved and what’s the best way to work out what’s darts score. Practice is key! You can download a Practice darts app with scoring to help your learning curve.

Calculating what’s darts score quickly and accurately is essential for competitive play. Many players use mental math, while others might use a scorekeeping app or even a physical scorecard. Some even use a mobile app. Understanding the value of each segment on the board is vital. This improves your ability to strategize your throws effectively and calculate your remaining score.
Variations in Darts Scoring
While the standard scoring system is widely used, some darts variations modify the scoring method. For example, some casual games might use simplified scoring rules, or specific tournament formats may have unique scoring structures. Knowing the specific rules before starting a game is essential to avoid confusion.
Understanding Game Formats and What’s Darts Score in Different Games
Different game formats influence how what’s darts score translates to victory. Let’s examine a few common formats:
- 501: This is probably the most common game in professional and casual darts. Players start with a score of 501 and subtract their turn score until they reach exactly zero. The final dart must land in a double to finish.
- 301: Similar to 501, but starting at 301. The rules regarding the final dart remaining in a double still apply.
- Cricket: This format focuses on closing out specific numbers rather than reaching a target score. Players aim to “close” numbers by hitting them three times, after which they can score points by hitting that number additionally while the opponent hasn’t closed it. Once all numbers are closed, whoever scored the most points wins.
- Around the Clock: In this game, players work their way around the board hitting each number in order (1, 2, 3, and so on). A player has to hit each number at least once before hitting the next number.
Each game format requires a different strategic approach to managing what’s darts score and working towards a win. Understanding the nuances of each will significantly improve your game.

Many beginners find that learning the proper throw is often the most difficult part of learning to play darts. However, you need to practice constantly, as well as understanding what’s darts score. One of the most common problems is understanding how to calculate what’s darts score quickly.
Tips and Tricks for Improving Your Darts Score
Regardless of what game format you play, several strategies can help you boost your score and increase your chances of winning. Here are a few:
- Practice your aim: Consistent practice is crucial for accuracy and higher scores. Even small improvements in accuracy can make a big difference.
- Master the different throws: Experiment with various throwing styles to find what works best for you. Some players benefit from throwing with a slight wrist movement while others prefer a full arm swing. Aim at perfecting your favorite style. Your aim, however, should always remain the same.
- Focus on your mental game: Darts is a game of both skill and precision and concentration. Staying focused and avoiding distractions will significantly enhance your performance. Try deep breathing exercises. This helps relax the muscles and improve your throwing style.
- Learn to strategize: Plan your shots in advance. Consider how your throw will affect your final score, especially near the end of the game. This ensures that you have a path to finish.
- Use a scorekeeping app or system: Many apps and websites offer scorekeeping functionalities. Using one can save time and improve accuracy, allowing you to focus on your game. In the same vein, you can also download a Practice darts app with scoring.
By implementing these tips, you’ll see improvements in your score and your overall dart game. Remember consistency is key.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Calculating What’s Darts Score
Even experienced players sometimes make mistakes when calculating their scores. Here are some common errors to watch out for:
- Miscounting segments: Double-check that you correctly identify the number and the multiplier (single, double, or triple).
- Adding incorrectly: Ensure accurate addition of each dart’s score for your total turn score.
- Forgetting to subtract from the total score: Don’t forget that in games like 501, you need to subtract your score from the starting score each round.
- Incorrectly calculating the final shot: In games that require a double out, failing to hit a double on the final dart is a game-ending error. This must be avoided at all costs.

By being aware of these potential errors and taking extra care, you can minimize mistakes and enhance your overall gameplay experience.
What’s Darts Score: Beyond the Basics
Understanding basic score calculation is a starting point. To become a truly skilled player, it’s crucial to understand advanced concepts such as:
- Checkout strategies: Learn common checkout combinations (sequences of throws that lead to a zero score) for different remaining scores. This is especially crucial in games like 501.
- Analyzing opponent’s scores: Observing your opponent’s score and playing style can allow you to adjust your strategy and exploit any weaknesses.
- Understanding leg and set scoring: In most professional darts matches, games are played in sets and legs. Knowing how this scoring structure affects the overall match outcome is crucial.
This allows you to calculate what’s darts score strategically and also apply this knowledge to the final leg of the game. In a close game, this can be the difference between winning and losing.
Mastering these advanced techniques helps you to understand the game on a deeper level and to improve your competitive edge. You’ll become a more astute and strategic player.

Many players also use a variety of different throwing styles, and understanding what’s darts score is essential to success. For example, you can view the darts best walkout from players, to help motivate yourself. Understanding your own score and your opponent’s score is important in order to strategize.
Another aspect to consider, is what type of darts you are using. Are you using darts steel or soft tip? Different darts are better suited to different throwing styles.
Understanding the line darts players stand behind is also important. The position that the darts players stand at the oche is very important, as this dictates how they can throw. This helps with accuracy.
Frequently Asked Questions about Darts Scoring
Here are some frequently asked questions about what’s darts score and how it works:
- Q: What happens if I bounce a dart off the board? A: If a dart bounces off the board, it doesn’t count; you don’t get any points for the throw.
- Q: Can I use my own scoring system? A: While you can in casual games, standard scoring systems are generally used in competitive matches. This helps ensure fairness and consistency.
- Q: What are some good resources for improving my understanding of what’s darts score? A: Many online resources, including videos and tutorials, can help you learn more about darts scoring. Practicing with friends or joining a darts league is a great way to improve quickly and consistently.
- Q: How many legs are in a darts semi-final? A: This depends on the specific tournament rules, but a how many legs darts semi final is often best of 9.
By understanding these frequently asked questions, you’ll be able to tackle any scoring challenge you come across during your darts journey.

Understanding what’s darts score is only half the battle! You also need to understand advanced techniques and how to strategize in order to improve your game. Understanding what’s darts score in any given game can help you to plan how you are going to improve your game, and how you are going to win.
Conclusion
In conclusion, understanding what’s darts score is fundamental to mastering the game of darts. From the basic principles of adding scores from different sections on the board to the more advanced strategies and game formats, this comprehensive guide has aimed to cover everything you need to know. Remember to practice regularly, refine your aim, and develop sound strategies. With dedication and understanding of the scoring system, you’ll enhance your gameplay and find more success in this exciting and challenging game. So grab your darts, hit the board, and start improving your scores today! Are you ready to take your game to the next level? Consider exploring other resources and tips on our website, or browse other articles on dart related topics such as darts triple stack or rtl darts. Also check out our review of the ust dart shaft review. Happy throwing!
Hi, I’m Dieter, and I created Dartcounter (Dartcounterapp.com). My motivation wasn’t being a darts expert – quite the opposite! When I first started playing, I loved the game but found keeping accurate scores and tracking stats difficult and distracting.
I figured I couldn’t be the only one struggling with this. So, I decided to build a solution: an easy-to-use application that everyone, no matter their experience level, could use to manage scoring effortlessly.
My goal for Dartcounter was simple: let the app handle the numbers – the scoring, the averages, the stats, even checkout suggestions – so players could focus purely on their throw and enjoying the game. It began as a way to solve my own beginner’s problem, and I’m thrilled it has grown into a helpful tool for the wider darts community.