Darts is easy to pick up, but understanding the basic rules and scoring system can make your first game much easier and more enjoyable. Whether you’re playing casually with friends or stepping up to the oche for the first time, this guide covers everything you need to know to get started.
A standard dartboard is split into 20 numbered sections, with each section worth a different number of points. Players throw from the oche, which is the line marking the correct throwing distance from the board.
In a standard game, players take turns throwing three darts per visit to the oche. Once all three darts have been thrown, the score is added together and the next player takes their turn.
The aim in a standard 501 darts format is, to get down from a score of 501 to exactly zero before your opponent does.
The sections on the dartboard score the number shown around the outside of the board. However, the sections within these in green and red score higher scores:
For example, hitting the triple section of the 20 scores 60 points, which is the highest score possible with a single dart
A checkout is the combination of darts used to finish a game by getting your score to exactly 0.
In most standard 501 games, you must finish by hitting a double. For example, if you have 40 remaining, hitting double 20 checks you out.
If you score more points than you have remaining, or leave yourself on one point, this is known as a bust. Your score returns to what it was at the beginning of that turn.
Darts is generally relaxed and social, but there are a few simple rules worth following.
Always stand behind the oche when throwing and wait until the previous player has collected their darts before approaching the board. Avoid distracting someone while they’re throwing, and keep track of scores clearly so everyone knows where they stand.
Once you’ve got the basics of scoring, there are plenty of different darts games you can try. For fun or to practice your skills and improve.
501 is the classic choice and a great way to learn scoring and checkouts. 301 works in a similar way but starts from a lower total, making games quicker and more manageable for beginners
For something more casual, interactive darts is perfect, with target dartzone’s there is a wide variety of fun, engaging and competitive games, to try some of the games for yourself you can book interactive darts at Powerleague here.
Trying different formats is a great way to improve your accuracy while keeping games varied and competitive.
Players usually throw three darts each turn from behind the oche. In 501, the aim is to reduce your score from 501 to exactly zero, normally finishing on a double.
Your score depends on where the dart lands. Standard sections score their displayed number, while doubles and triples multiply that number by two or three.
Players throw three darts per turn before play passes to the next person.
The highest possible score in one turn is 180, achieved by hitting three triple 20s.
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