Darts is more than just throwing sharp objects at a board. It is a game of skill, math, and strategy. If you want to play darts or improve your understanding, knowing how to score a dart board game is essential. Whether you play for fun or in competition, scoring correctly keeps the game fair and exciting. This guide explains dartboard scoring in simple words, so anyone can follow along—even if English is not your first language. You’ll learn how to count points, understand different dart games, avoid common mistakes, and use scorekeeping tricks to play smarter.
Dartboard Layout: What Each Area Means
Before you can score, you need to know the dartboard layout. The board is split into numbered sections, rings, and special zones.
- There are 20 numbered segments. Each segment has a number from 1 to 20.
- The bullseye is in the middle. It has two parts: The outer bull (25 points) and inner bull (50 points).
- There are two thin rings:
- The outer ring (double ring): Hits here count as double the segment’s number.
- The inner ring (treble ring): Hits here count as triple the segment’s number.
Here’s a quick view:
| Area | Points |
|---|---|
| Single segment | 1–20 (segment number) |
| Double ring | 2x segment number |
| Treble ring | 3x segment number |
| Outer bullseye | 25 |
| Inner bullseye | 50 |
Tip: Many beginners forget to count the rings. Always check if your dart is in a single, double, or treble area.
Scoring Basics: How Points Are Counted
Scoring in darts is simple in theory. Each dart earns points based on where it lands. After each turn (usually three darts), you add up the points.
- If your dart lands in a numbered segment: Score that number.
- If it hits the double ring: Multiply the segment’s number by two.
- If it hits the treble ring: Multiply by three.
- Outer bullseye: 25 points.
- Inner bullseye: 50 points.
Let’s see a practical example. Imagine your three darts land in:
- Segment 20 (single): 20 points
- Segment 5 (treble ring): 15 points (5 x 3)
- Outer bullseye: 25 points
Your total for that turn is 20 + 15 + 25 = 60 points.
Non-obvious insight: Darts that bounce out or stick into the board’s wire do not count. Only darts that stay in the scoring area are valid.
Main Dart Games And Their Scoring Rules
There are many ways to play darts. The most popular games are 501, 301, and Cricket. Each has its own scoring rules.
501 And 301: Countdown Games
These games are played by starting with a score (501 or 301) and subtracting your points until you reach exactly zero.
- Each player starts with 501 or 301.
- After every turn, subtract the points you scored from your total.
- You must finish by hitting a double (the outer ring).
For example:
- You have 40 points left.
- You throw a dart and land in double 20 (20 x 2 = 40).
- You finish the game.
Common mistake: If you score more than your remaining points, your turn does not count, and your score stays the same. This is called “busting.”
Cricket: Marking Segments
Cricket is different. The aim is to “close” certain segments (15–20 and bullseye) by hitting them three times.
- Only segments 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, and bullseye matter.
- Each segment must be hit three times to close it.
- After closing a segment, you can score points by hitting it again, if your opponent has not closed it.
- The winner is the first to close all segments and have the most points.
Here’s a comparison of Cricket vs 501:
| Game | Main Goal | Scoring Method |
|---|---|---|
| 501/301 | Reach zero by subtraction | Count all segment scores |
| Cricket | Close segments 15–20 & bullseye | Mark hits; score points only after closing |
Insight for beginners: In Cricket, hitting a double or treble counts as two or three marks. For example, treble 17 counts as three marks for segment 17.
Scorekeeping: Methods And Tips
Keeping score can be simple or tricky, depending on the game and number of players.
Manual Scorekeeping
Most casual games use a chalkboard or paper. Write each player’s name and update scores after every turn.
- In 501/301, subtract the turn’s points from the running total.
- In Cricket, use marks (like circles or slashes) to track hits on each segment.
Tip: Always double-check your math. One mistake can change the outcome.
Electronic Scoring
Some dartboards are electronic. These boards calculate scores automatically.
- Enter player names.
- The board shows points after each turn.
- For Cricket, it displays marks and points.
Benefit: Reduces errors and speeds up the game.
Useful Scorekeeping Symbols
In Cricket, players use symbols to mark hits:
- One hit: /
- Two hits: X
- Three hits (closed): O
This keeps tracking simple and clear.
Advanced Scoring: Doubles, Trebles, And Special Rules
Many beginners miss the importance of doubles and trebles. These rings are key to higher scores and winning games.
- Doubles are required to finish games like 501.
- Trebles boost your points fast. Treble 20 is the highest score for one dart (60 points).
Here’s a quick view of possible scores per dart:
| Hit Type | Points (Segment 20) |
|---|---|
| Single | 20 |
| Double | 40 |
| Treble | 60 |
| Inner Bullseye | 50 |
Non-obvious insight: In high-level play, aiming for treble 20 is common because it offers maximum points. But missing can land you in 1 or 5, so risk is involved.
Example Scoring Situations
Let’s look at two game situations:
Example 1: Finishing 501
You have 32 points left. You need to finish with a double.
- First dart: Misses the board (0)
- Second dart: Hits single 16 (16)
- Now you have 16 points left.
- Third dart: Hits double 8 (8 x 2 = 16)
- You finish and win.
Example 2: Cricket Segment Marking
You need to close segment 18.
- First dart: Hits single 18 (one mark)
- Second dart: Hits treble 18 (three marks)
- Now you have four marks—segment is closed.
Beginner tip: In Cricket, mark each hit immediately so you don’t forget which segments are closed.
Common Scoring Mistakes And How To Avoid Them
Mistakes can ruin a good game. Here are frequent errors and ways to avoid them:
- Forgetting to check rings: Always look carefully at where the dart lands.
- Math errors: Use a calculator or electronic board if unsure.
- Not finishing with a double: In 501/301, you must finish with a double—missing this rule is common.
- Mis-marking segments in Cricket: Double-check marks after every turn.
Pro advice: Practice scorekeeping while watching games. This builds confidence and helps you learn the rules.
Scoring For Teams
Darts can be played solo or in teams. In team games:
- Players take turns for their team.
- Scores are combined or tracked individually (based on game rules).
- In Cricket, marks and points are shared.
Strategy tip: Teams often assign scorekeepers. One person tracks points while others focus on throwing.
Dartboard Scoring Around The World
Different countries may use slightly different rules. For example:
- In the UK, the “double-in” rule is popular. Players must hit a double to start scoring.
- In the US, most games use simple “straight-in” rules.
If you play internationally, check local rules before starting.
Improving Your Scoring Skills
Strong scoring skills help you play smarter. Here’s how to get better:
- Practice mental math: Calculate scores quickly in your head.
- Learn segment values: Remember which segments give the most points.
- Watch pro games: See how professionals score and finish games.
You can also find more details at Wikipedia.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do You Score A Dart That Lands On The Wire?
If a dart lands on the wire and does not stick in a scoring segment, it does not count. Only darts that are firmly in the board and inside a scoring area are valid.
Do You Have To Finish On A Double In Every Game?
No. You only need to finish on a double in games like 501 and 301. In Cricket and other games, finishing rules are different.
What Happens If You Go Below Zero In 501?
If you score more than your remaining points, your score does not change for that turn. This is called a “bust. ” Your next turn starts with the same score you had before.
How Is Scoring Different In Electronic Dartboards?
Electronic dartboards calculate scores automatically. They recognize doubles, trebles, and bullseye areas. This reduces mistakes and speeds up play.
Can Two Darts Score The Same Segment?
Yes. If both darts land in the same segment, you count both scores. For example, two darts in segment 20 score 40 points. In Cricket, each hit is marked separately.
Scoring a dart board game is easy once you know the rules and layout. With practice, you’ll be able to track points, avoid mistakes, and play smarter. Use scorekeeping tips and learn the main games to enjoy darts with friends or in competition. Remember: check segment rings, finish with doubles when needed, and mark your scores clearly. Darts is a game of skill, math, and fun—so grab your darts and start scoring!
