The Ultimate Guide to Darts Scoring: Rules, Distance, and Tips for Beginners
WillDarts presents The Guide to Darts Scoring. Learn everything you need to know about darts scoring, including the rules, distances, and formats. We've also got tips for beginners, all explained in a way that's easy to understand. Plus, we've got step-by-step rules and practice drills to help you get the hang of it.
- Introduction to Darts Scoring
- Brief History of Darts Scoring Systems
- Why Scoring Rules Are Essential for Fair Play
- Understanding the Dartboard Layout
- Single, Double, and Triple Scoring Areas
- The Bullseye and Outer Bull
- Number Ring and Scoring Distribution
- Standard 501 Scoring Rules
- Game Objective and Starting Points
- Double-In and Double-Out Variations
- Bust Rule Explained
- Popular Alternative Darts Games and Their Scoring
- 301 and 701
- Cricket
- Around the Clock
- Shanghai
- Killer
- Soft-Tip Darts and Electronic Scoring
- How Electronic Dart Machines Calculate Scores
- WillDarts’ Accuracy in Soft-Tip Scoring
- Tips for Keeping Track of Scores Manually
- Using a Chalkboard or Dry-Erase Board
- Common Scoring Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
- Tournament Scoring Standards
- World Darts Federation Rules
- Professional Darts Corporation Rules
- Asian Soft-Tip League Rules
- Strategies to Maximize Your Score
- Targeting High-Value Segments
- Finishing with Precision
- Mental Math for Faster Play
- FAQs on Darts Scoring Rules
- Conclusion: Play Smarter with Accurate Scoring
Darts is about more than just aiming at a board—it's a game of precision, strategy, and accurate scoring. Whether you're just hanging with friends or in a pro league, knowing the scoring rules can make a big difference.
WillDarts is a top-notch dart machine manufacturer in China. For over 10 years, they've been making sure their scoring systems are on point, whether it's for soft-tip or steel-tip darts. In this guide, we'll go over all the major scoring rules, from classic 501 to modern soft-tip games.

Introduction to Darts Scoring
Brief History of Darts Scoring Systems
Darts originated in England in the late 1800s, and its scoring system has evolved alongside competitive play. The now-standard 501 format emerged in the mid-20th century as the preferred competitive structure.
Why Scoring Rules Are Essential for Fair Play
Standardized scoring ensures fair competition and allows players worldwide to compete under the same conditions.
Understanding the Dartboard Layout
Single, Double, and Triple Scoring Areas
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Single Area: The largest section, worth the number shown.
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Double Ring: Thin outer ring, worth double the number.
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Triple Ring: Thin inner ring, worth triple the number.
The Bullseye and Outer Bull
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Inner Bull: 50 points
-
Outer Bull: 25 points
Number Ring and Scoring Distribution
Numbers are arranged to penalize inaccuracy by placing low values next to high ones.
Standard 501 Scoring Rules
Game Objective and Starting Points
Players start at 501 points and subtract the score of each turn until exactly zero is reached.
Double-In and Double-Out Variations
Some leagues require you to start or finish the game by hitting a double segment.
Bust Rule Explained
If your score goes below zero or ends without a double in Double-Out mode, your turn is void and your score reverts to the previous total.
For detailed rules of Darts 501, please visit our article: Dart Machine Game 501 Rules
Popular Alternative Darts Games and Their Scoring
301 and 701
Same as 501 but with fewer or more starting points for faster or longer games.
Cricket
Players must close numbers 15–20 and the bullseye while keeping the score ahead.
Around the Clock
Players must hit numbers in sequence from 1 to 20.
Shanghai
Score by hitting the same number’s single, double, and triple in one turn.
Killer
Each player is assigned a number and must hit it to gain "lives" while knocking out others.
Soft-Tip Darts and Electronic Scoring
How Electronic Dart Machines Calculate Scores
Soft-tip darts have plastic tips and land in electronic boards that register hits automatically. These machines instantly display and track scores.
WillDarts’ Accuracy in Soft-Tip Scoring
Our WillDarts electronic machines are engineered for pinpoint accuracy, backed by 20+ patents and CE/ROHS certifications to ensure flawless scoring.
Tips for Keeping Track of Scores Manually
Using a Chalkboard or Dry-Erase Board
Traditional steel-tip games often use manual scoreboards, which encourage mental math skills.
Common Scoring Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Double-check scores after each round and keep the scorekeeper’s role consistent.
Tournament Scoring Standards
World Darts Federation Rules
501 Double-Out is the standard for professional tournaments.
Professional Darts Corporation Rules
Align closely with WDF but with stricter time limits per throw.
Asian Soft-Tip League Rules
Often use point-based ranking systems with multiple game modes.
Strategies to Maximize Your Score
Targeting High-Value Segments
Focus on the triple 20 for maximum points.
Finishing with Precision
Plan ahead for the exact double you’ll need to finish.
Mental Math for Faster Play
Quick calculations keep the game moving and your focus sharp.
FAQs on Darts Scoring Rules
Q1: What is the highest possible score with three darts?
A: 180 points (triple 20 with all three darts).
Q2: Do soft-tip darts have different scoring rules?
A: Game modes are the same, but distances and board sizes may differ.
Q3: What does “Double-Out” mean?
A: You must finish the game by hitting a double segment.
Q4: How does Cricket scoring work?
A: Players must close 15–20 and the bullseye while keeping a higher score.
Q5: Can WillDarts machines track scores automatically?
A: Yes, our machines instantly calculate and display scores.
Q6: Is there a penalty for going over zero in 501?
A: Yes, your turn is void and your score reverts to the previous total.
Conclusion: Play Smarter with Accurate Scoring
Darts scoring might seem complex at first, but it'll become second nature with a bit of practice. No matter if you're using a regular steel-tip board or a WillDarts electronic dart machine, keeping score accurately makes the game fair and fun.
Check out WillDarts—they're known worldwide for quality, innovation, and competitive accuracy.

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