Recording scores is easy but does require the ability to multiply, add and subtract. When the player has thrown their three darts, the score is added up. The total is then subtracted from the team total to produce a current score.
Example:
A player scores D5 (double 5), 20 and 1. The total is 10+20+1=31.
501 = starting score
31 = minus 3 dart score for player
480 = running total
This method of scoring continues uall the way to the end of the match. However, once your score falls to 170 or below it may be possible to finish the game with 3 darts. This is when you should consult the Three Dart Finishing Guide to find a way to finish the game as quickly as possible.
To finish the leg you need to finish on a double. If you score more than, or 1 less than, the required total with three darts, your score will not be counted and the previous score will stand.
As follow is the basic rule of dart:
In a game of 501 the object is for one player or a team to be the first to reach zero from starting total of 501.
In simple terms, after three darts are thrown, the throwing player subtracts the total scored from his current total until he reaches zero.
In order to reach zero each player must finish by throwing a double i.e. if player one has 36 remaining he must hit double 18 to win, while if player two has 45 remaining he must hit single 5, double 20 to win - or a another combination of scores provided the final dart scores on a double.
Some versions of the game require a 'double start' whereby players must begin the game with a double as well as 'checking out' on a double. The World Grand Prix uses the 'double in, double out' rule.
Games can be played to a 'Best of' format whereby a player or team winning three legs in a 'Best of Five Leg' competition wins the match.
The World Matchplay and UK Open events are examples of tournament played on a 'Best of' format with legs as the scoring format. Games on the PDC ProTour are held over the Best of 11 Legs.
Other tournaments will be played in 'Set' format, whereby players must win a set by winning the Best of Five legs, before claiming the match in the Best of Five Sets.
The PDC World Championship and World Grand Prix are played using the Set format, with differing lengths of games at each tournament.
