How to Do Scoring in Darts: Never Lose Again!

Learning how to do scoring in darts is fundamental to enjoying the game. The basic principle is simple: each player starts with a score (typically 501 or 301), and the aim is to reach zero by accurately throwing darts at the dartboard; the final dart must land on a double or the bullseye to win. This article will guide you through the intricacies of darts scoring, covering everything from basic calculations to advanced strategies and common rules.

Understanding the Dartboard Layout for Accurate Scoring

Before delving into how to do scoring in darts, it’s crucial to understand the layout of a standard dartboard. The dartboard is divided into 20 numbered sections, each radiating from the center. These sections are separated by wires. Understanding each section and its corresponding value is the first step toward mastering darts scoring.

• Numbers: Each section is assigned a number from 1 to 20, arranged in a non-sequential order to minimize the impact of slight errors.
• Double Ring: The outer ring is the double ring. A dart landing in this ring doubles the value of the corresponding section. Hitting double 20 is worth 40 points!
• Treble Ring: The inner ring is the treble ring. A dart landing in this ring triples the value of the corresponding section. Hitting treble 20 is worth 60 points (also known as the ‘ton 80’ if you get all 3 in the T20).
• Bullseye: The center of the board contains two circles. The outer green circle is the single bullseye, worth 25 points. The inner red circle, known as the double bullseye or just “bull”, is worth 50 points and counts as a double for checkout purposes.
• Outer Bull Ring: The outer ring of the bullseye counts as 25 points.

Common Scoring Zones and Their Values

Memorizing the values of different sections on the dartboard can significantly improve your darts scoring skills. Here’s a quick rundown of some key scoring zones:

• 20 Section: Single 20 is worth 20 points, Double 20 is worth 40 points, and Treble 20 is worth 60 points.
• 19 Section: Single 19 is worth 19 points, Double 19 is worth 38 points, and Treble 19 is worth 57 points.
• 18 Section: Single 18 is worth 18 points, Double 18 is worth 36 points, and Treble 18 is worth 54 points.
• 1 Section: Single 1 is worth 1 point, Double 1 is worth 2 points, and Treble 1 is worth 3 points.

How to Calculate Your Score in Darts

How to do scoring in darts involves subtracting the points you score from your starting total (usually 501 or 301) until you reach zero. A “leg” of darts is won when a player reaches zero with a double (or the bullseye). Let’s break down the calculation process:

1. Starting Score: Begin with your chosen starting score (e.g., 501).
2. Throwing Darts: Throw three darts per turn, aiming for specific sections to maximize your score or set up a finish.
3. Calculating Points: Add up the points scored with each dart in your turn.
4. Subtracting from Total: Subtract the total points scored in your turn from your remaining score.
5. Repeating: Continue taking turns, calculating and subtracting points, until one player reaches zero with a double or bullseye.

Example Scoring Scenario

Let’s say you’re playing 501. Here’s how a sample turn might play out:

• First Dart: Treble 20 (60 points)
• Second Dart: Single 20 (20 points)
• Third Dart: Single 5 (5 points)
• Total Score for Turn: 60 + 20 + 5 = 85 points
• Remaining Score: 501 – 85 = 416

In the next round, you continue this process until you get close to zero.

The Importance of the “Checkout” in Darts

The “checkout” is a crucial element of darts scoring. To win a leg of darts, the player must finish on a double or the bullseye. This adds a layer of strategy to the game, as players often aim to leave themselves with a favorable double to finish on. Let’s explore why the checkout matters:

• The Double Rule: The final dart must land in a double or the bullseye. If you reduce your score to 1, or any other odd number (except 25, the outer bull) and it’s your turn, you cannot win on that turn.
• Strategic Planning: Players often plan their throws to set up a specific double for their final dart.
• Common Checkouts: Familiarizing yourself with common checkouts, such as 32 (double 16) or 40 (double 20), is essential for improving your game.

You can even use a Dart Counter App to help you keep track of your scores.

Example Checkout Scenarios

Here are a few examples of how checkouts work in practice:

• Remaining Score: 40. You need to hit Double 20 to win.
• Remaining Score: 32. You need to hit Double 16 to win.
• Remaining Score: 50. You can hit the bullseye to win.
• Remaining Score: 60. You could hit T20 and then D20 or just aim for Bull then D5 (Double 5).

Knowing these common checkouts is vital for anyone learning how to do scoring in darts effectively.

Busting and Miscounting: Common Scoring Errors

Understanding the rules about busting and miscounting is vital for any darts player. A “bust” occurs when a player scores more points than needed to reach zero, or when the final dart is not a double. Miscounting can also lead to significant errors in your darts scoring.

What is a Bust in Darts?

A bust happens in several scenarios:

• Overshooting: If your score goes below zero, it’s a bust. Your score reverts to what it was at the start of that turn.
• Non-Double Finish: If you reach zero without hitting a double or the bullseye on your final dart, it’s a bust. Your score reverts to what it was at the start of that turn.
• Leaving 1: If a player reduces their score to ‘1’, this is a bust. Their score reverts to what it was at the start of that turn.

For example, if you have a remaining score of 30 and you hit a treble 10, you’ve busted. Your score returns to 30 at the start of your next turn.

Avoiding Miscounts and Ensuring Accuracy

Miscounting can lead to confusion and potential arguments. Here are some tips to avoid miscounts:

• Double-Check: Always double-check your score after each turn to ensure accuracy.
• Use a Scoreboard: Keep a clear and updated scoreboard to track scores.
• Utilize a Scorekeeper: In competitive matches, have a designated scorekeeper to minimize errors.

Learning how to do scoring in darts also means being aware of these potential errors and taking steps to prevent them. If you are looking at getting a new set up then consider a dartboard enclosure to help protect your walls.

Advanced Scoring Strategies in Darts

Once you’ve mastered the basics of how to do scoring in darts, you can start exploring advanced scoring strategies to elevate your game. These strategies involve planning your throws to maximize your scoring potential and set up favorable checkouts.

Maximizing Your Scoring Potential

To maximize your scoring potential, consider the following:

• Aim for Trebles: Focus on hitting treble segments, especially the treble 20 and treble 19, for high scores.
• Strategic Placement: If you’re not confident in hitting a treble, aim for a single that leaves you with a manageable checkout.
• Grouping: Try to group your darts together in the same segment to increase your chances of hitting a high score.

Setting Up Favorable Checkouts

Setting up favorable checkouts is a critical aspect of advanced darts scoring. This involves planning your throws to leave yourself with a double that you are comfortable hitting. Here’s how to approach it:

• Know Your Doubles: Identify the doubles that you consistently hit well and aim to set them up.
• Strategic Leaves: Plan your throws to leave yourself with a manageable double or the bullseye.
• Consider the Opponent: Take into account your opponent’s remaining score and ability to finish when planning your throws.

Using Statistics and Analysis

Many professional darts players utilize statistics and analysis to improve their scoring and overall performance. Tools like target dart counter camera, when working correctly, can also help. This involves tracking your performance, identifying areas for improvement, and adjusting your strategies accordingly. For example, if you notice you are consistently missing a particular double, you can focus on practicing that double to improve your accuracy. Keeping a steady dart is important to avoid errors.

Practice Drills to Improve Your Darts Scoring

Consistent practice is key to mastering how to do scoring in darts. Here are some effective practice drills to improve your scoring accuracy and checkout skills:

• Around the Clock: Start at the 1 segment and work your way around the board, hitting each number in sequence.
• Doubles Practice: Focus specifically on hitting doubles, starting with double 1 and progressing to double 20.
• Trebles Practice: Practice hitting treble segments, particularly treble 20 and treble 19, to maximize your scoring potential.
• Checkout Drills: Set up specific checkout scenarios and practice hitting the required doubles to finish the game.

Resources for Improving Your Darts Skills

There are numerous resources available to help you improve your darts scoring and overall game:

• Online Tutorials: Watch online tutorials and videos to learn new techniques and strategies.
• Darts Coaches: Consider working with a darts coach to receive personalized instruction and feedback.
• Practice Apps: Utilize darts practice apps to track your progress and identify areas for improvement.
• Darts Forums: Engage with other darts players in online forums to share tips and strategies.

Conclusion: Mastering How to Do Scoring in Darts

In conclusion, understanding how to do scoring in darts is crucial for enjoying and excelling at the game. From understanding the dartboard layout and calculating scores to mastering checkouts and avoiding busts, each aspect contributes to your overall success. By practicing regularly, implementing advanced strategies, and utilizing available resources, you can significantly improve your darts scoring skills. So grab your darts, aim for the treble, and start practicing to become a true darts master! Visit how to make a dartboard for additional resources.