Darts! It’s a classic pub game, a competitive sport, and a whole lot of fun. But before you start slinging those darts, you need to know how to keep track of the points. Knowing how to take score in darts might seem tricky at first, but with a little practice, you’ll be a scoring pro in no time!
This guide will walk you through the basics of dart scoring, so you can confidently step up to the oche (that’s the throwing line!) and enjoy the game without worrying about the numbers. Get ready to sharpen your darts and your arithmetic skills! Let’s dive in and learn how to score like a champion.
Understanding How to Take Score in Darts
The most common dart game is 501. Each player or team starts with 501 points, and the goal is to be the first to reduce that score to exactly zero. You do this by hitting different sections of the dartboard, each worth a specific number of points. Sounds simple enough, right?
The dartboard is divided into numbered sections from 1 to 20. Hitting a section scores that number of points. The outer ring is the double ring, so hitting a number in that ring doubles its value. The inner ring is the treble ring, tripling the value. The bullseye is worth 50 points, and the single bull is worth 25.
Let’s say you throw three darts. The first hits a single 20 (20 points), the second a double 20 (40 points), and the third a treble 20 (60 points). That’s a score of 120 for that round! You’d subtract 120 from your starting score of 501, leaving you with 381.
A crucial rule is that you must finish the game with a double. This means the last dart you throw to reach zero must land in the double ring. If you go below zero, or end on one, it’s a bust, and your score returns to what it was at the start of that round. This adds a layer of strategy to the game!
Keeping score can be done with a traditional chalkboard and chalk, a whiteboard and marker, or even a dedicated dart scoreboard app on your phone or tablet. Choose the method that works best for you and your group. The important thing is to be accurate and consistent.
Mastering how to take score in darts isn’t just about numbers; it’s about adding to the fun, strategy, and competitive spirit of the game. So, grab your darts, gather your friends, and start practicing! With a little practice, you’ll be racking up points and hitting those crucial doubles in no time. Now you know how to take score in darts.