How do you score darts?

In darts, each player throws 3 darts per turn. The single areas score face value (1-20), the thin outer ring (doubles) scores 2x the number, and the thin inner ring (triples) scores 3x. The outer bull is worth 25 points and the bullseye (inner bull) is worth 50. In standard 501, you subtract your score each turn and must reach exactly zero, finishing on a double.

What is double out in darts?

Double out means you must hit a double (the thin outer ring of the dartboard) with your final dart to win the game. For example, if you have 32 remaining, you need to hit Double 16. The bullseye (worth 50) also counts as a double. If you go below zero or hit exactly zero without a double, it's a "bust" and your score resets to what it was before that turn.

What is the highest score you can get with 3 darts?

The highest possible score with 3 darts is 180, achieved by hitting three triple-20s (60 + 60 + 60). This is called a "maximum" and is celebrated even by professional players. The highest checkout (finishing score) is 170: Triple 20, Triple 20, Double Bull.

How do you play 501 darts?

In 501 darts, each player starts at 501 points. Players take turns throwing 3 darts and subtract their total from 501. The goal is to reach exactly zero. With standard double-out rules, the final dart must land in a double segment. A perfect 501 game can be completed in just 9 darts, though this is extremely rare.

How do you play Cricket darts?

Cricket darts uses numbers 15-20 and the bullseye. Each player must "close" each number by hitting it three times (singles count as 1, doubles as 2, triples as 3). Once closed, you can score points on that number until your opponent also closes it. Win by closing all numbers while having equal or more points than your opponent.

What is the best free darts scoring app?

Dart Dummies is a free darts scoring app that works in your browser with no download required. It features an interactive dartboard for per-dart scoring, supports 301, 501, 701, and Cricket, provides checkout suggestions, tracks player statistics, and includes a comprehensive guide for beginners learning the game.

How to Play Darts — Rules, Scoring & Beginner's Guide

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What is Darts?

Darts is a throwing game where players take turns throwing three small pointed missiles (darts) at a circular board (dartboard) mounted on a wall. The goal depends on the game you're playing, but it usually involves reducing your score to exactly zero.

The Dartboard

A standard dartboard has these areas:

Numbers 1–20 arranged around the board (not in sequential order)
Single areas — the large sections, score face value (e.g., single 20 = 20 points)
Double ring — the narrow outer ring, scores 2× the number (e.g., double 20 = 40)
Triple ring — the narrow inner ring, scores 3× the number (e.g., triple 20 = 60)
Outer bull (bull) — the green ring in the center, worth 25 points
Inner bull (bullseye) — the red dot in the center, worth 50 points (counts as a double)

The highest possible score with 3 darts is 180— three triple-20s. This is called a "maximum" and even professional players celebrate it!

How to Throw

Stand at the oche (throwing line) — 7 feet 9¼ inches (2.37m) from the board
Grip the dart near the center of gravity with 3–4 fingers. Don't squeeze too tight
Aim with your dominant eye, lining the dart up with your target
Throw with your forearm — keep your upper arm still, snap your wrist forward
Follow through — your hand should point at the target after release

Setup

The bullseye should be 5 feet 8 inches (1.73m) above the floor
The throwing distance (oche) is 7 feet 9¼ inches (2.37m) from the face of the board
Make sure you have good lighting on the board — shadows make it harder to aim
Stand on a mat or mark a line on the floor for the oche

Learn to Play Darts

What is Darts?

The Dartboard

How to Throw

Setup