Darts is a blend of precision, skill, and a bit of strategy. While it may seem simple at first glance—throw some darts at a board and rack up points—there’s much more to the scoring aspect that makes the game both competitive and fun. This guide will take anyone from complete beginner to confident score-tracking player in no time.
TLDR: Scoring in darts depends on where the dart lands on the board. Each numbered segment holds a base value, which can be multiplied by hitting the double or triple ring. Familiarity with the layout of the board and consistent practice helps enhance both scoring and overall performance. The standard game is usually “501,” where players subtract scored points from 501 until they reach exactly zero, finishing on a double.
Understanding the Dartboard
The dartboard is divided into 20 numbered sections, each ranging from 1 to 20. In addition to these segments, the board includes two special circular areas: the bullseye and the outer bull.
- Single Area: The large portions of each numbered segment.
- Double Ring: Outer ring that doubles the score of the number it surrounds.
- Triple Ring: Inner ring that triples the score of the number it lines.
- Outer Bull (Bull): Worth 25 points.
- Inner Bull (Bullseye): Worth 50 points.
The highest possible score with a single dart is 60, which is achieved by hitting the triple 20.
How Scoring Works
Scoring is based on where each of the three darts lands during your turn. The player throws three darts and adds the point values of each dart together to get their total for that round. For example, if a player scores a single 20, a triple 19, and an outer bull, the score for the round would be:
- Single 20: 20 points
- Triple 19: 57 points
- Outer Bull: 25 points
- Total: 102 points
Popular Game Formats and Their Scoring Rules
There are multiple dart game formats, but the two most common are 301/501 and Cricket.
501 (and 301)
This is the most widely played scoring format in both casual and professional settings. All players start with a predefined score—usually 301 or 501—and subtract the score they earn each round from this total. The objective is to reach exactly zero, ending on a double.
Rules to Remember:
- Game begins with 501 (or 301) points.
- Each round’s score is subtracted from the total.
- Players must end the game by hitting a double. For example, if a player has 40 points left, they must hit double 20 to win.
- If a player scores more than the points remaining, it is called a “bust,” and the score resets to what it was at the start of the turn.
Cricket
Cricket is a strategic dart game focused on closing particular numbers on the board (15 through 20 and the bullseye). Scoring in Cricket differs slightly in that it’s more about marking territory than reducing a score to zero.
Cricket Rules:
- Players aim to “close” numbers 15 to 20 and the bullseye by hitting each three times.
- Once a number is closed, any additional hits score points unless an opponent has also closed that number.
- First to close all numbers and have the highest score wins.
Scoring Examples
Understanding how scores are calculated helps players improve their strategies. Here are a few examples for clarity:
Example 1:
A player hits:
- Triple 20 (60)
- Triple 19 (57)
- Triple 18 (54)
Total: 171 points — This is the highest possible score with 3 darts not involving the bullseye.
Example 2:
A player tries to finish a 32-point game, throws:
- Single 16 (16)
- Single 8 (8)
- Misses the board
Result: Total is 24. Player has 8 points remaining, still must hit a double 4 on the next turn to win.
Tips for Better Scoring
Anyone looking to improve in darts should consider these scoring-based strategies:
- Target the Triple 20: It gives the highest score possible with a single dart.
- Practice Finishes: Learn combinations to finish on a double from common numbers (e.g., 32, 40, 50).
- Track Consistency: Keeping a tally of each round’s score can show where improvements are needed.
- Know the Board: Improve muscle memory for different segments to reduce aim errors.
Keeping Score
In casual play, players often use a notepad or chalkboard to keep track of scores. In tournaments, electronic systems or dedicated scorekeepers handle this task. Regardless of the method, accuracy in arithmetic is vital, especially when finishing the game.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Q: What happens if I go below zero in a 501 game?
- A: That’s called a “bust.” Your score for that round is void, and you return to the score you had before that turn.
- Q: Do I have to finish a game on a double?
- A: In standard 501 rules, yes. You must end exactly on zero with a double, like double 20 to end on 40.
- Q: What is the role of the bullseye in scoring?
- A: The bullseye (inner) is worth 50 points, while the outer bull is 25 points. Both are crucial in games like Cricket and as high-value targets in 501 games.
- Q: How many darts are thrown per turn?
- A: Each player throws three darts per turn, unless a game rule states otherwise.
- Q: Is it necessary to memorize all the scores?
- A: Not necessarily, but being familiar with common scoring patterns improves decision-making and speeds up the game.
Darts is a game that rewards both precision and thoughtful gameplay. Once the scoring system is understood, players can focus on technique, aim, and strategy, making the game much more enjoyable and competitive across all levels of experience.