How to Play Darts: Rules, Scoring and Games for Beginners

Darts is easy to start playing. Stand behind the throwing line, aim at the board and throw three darts. The difficult bit is getting them to land where you intended.

Then there’s the scoring.

What’s a treble? Why is the bullseye split into two parts? Why are people trying to reach exactly zero? And why did your winning dart apparently not count?

Don’t worry. The basic rules are simpler than they first appear, and you don’t need to memorise every possible checkout before picking up a dart.

This guide explains how to play darts, how the board is scored and how a standard game of 501 works. We’ll also cover a few easy darts games for beginners and share some tips that may help you find the target more often.

If the maths still sounds like the least enjoyable part, Electric Darts at Spinners does it all for you. Real darts, a smart board and automatic scoring. Much easier.

How Do You Play Darts?

Darts is played by throwing small, pointed darts at a circular numbered board. Players normally throw three darts during each turn before collecting them and allowing the next person to play.

There are many different darts games, but 501 is the version most closely associated with traditional pub and professional darts.

In a game of 501:

1. 1. Each player starts with a score of 501.

1. 1. Players take turns throwing three darts.

1. 1. The value of each dart is deducted from the player’s remaining total.

1. 1. The aim is to reduce the score to exactly zero.

1. 1. The winning dart must land in a double.

You can play one-on-one or split a larger group into teams. The same basic scoring rules apply.

At Spinners, you can also choose from six different Electric Darts game modes. The screens explain each game and keep score automatically, so beginners can start playing without learning complicated calculations first.

How Is a Dartboard Scored?

A standard dartboard is divided into 20 numbered sections. These numbers are arranged around the outside of the board in a deliberately mixed order.

The large areas of each section score the number shown. For example, a dart landing in the main area of the 18 segment scores 18 points.

The board also contains narrower scoring rings:

• • Single: The large inner or outer section scores the number shown.

• • Double: The thin outer ring scores twice the number.

• • Treble: The thin inner ring scores three times the number.

• • Outer bull: The green outer section of the bullseye scores 25.

• • Bullseye: The red centre scores 50.

• • Outside the scoring area: No score.

The highest possible score with one dart is 60, achieved by hitting treble 20.

The highest possible score in a three-dart turn is 180. That requires all three darts to land in treble 20 and normally produces a slightly louder celebration than the circumstances really justify.

What Is a Double in Darts?

The doubles are located in the narrow ring around the outer edge of the dartboard. Hitting this ring scores twice the value of the numbered segment.

For example:

• • Double 20 scores 40

• • Double 16 scores 32

• • Double 10 scores 20

• • Double 1 scores 2

The inner bullseye, worth 50 points, can also be used as a double when finishing a standard game of 501.

Doubles are especially important because the final dart must normally land in one. If you have 40 points left, hitting double 20 would take your score to exactly zero and win the game.

What Is a Treble in Darts?

The treble is the narrow ring roughly halfway between the centre and the outside of the board.

A dart landing in it scores three times the value of that segment. Treble 20 is worth 60, treble 19 is worth 57 and treble 18 is worth 54.

Trebles help players reduce their remaining total quickly. They can also form part of a checkout combination towards the end of a game.

The treble ring is small, so don’t worry if you can’t hit it consistently as a beginner. Three darts safely landing in the single 20 can be far more useful than three ambitious attempts scattered around the board.

How Do You Play 501 Darts?

In 501, every player begins with 501 points and tries to reduce that total to exactly zero.

After each turn, the value of the three darts is added together and deducted from the player’s remaining score.

For example, if you throw:

• • Single 20

• • Treble 20

• • Single 5

You score 85 points. Your total would fall from 501 to 416.

Players continue taking turns until someone reaches a score that they can finish with a double.

If you have 32 remaining, for example, you can win by hitting double 16. If you have 16 left, you could finish on double 8.

You must reach exactly zero. If your score goes below zero, reaches one or reaches zero without the final dart hitting a double, your turn is a bust.

What Does Bust Mean in Darts?

A bust happens when a player can’t legally complete their turn.

You go bust if:

• • Your score falls below zero

• • You leave yourself with one point

• • You reach zero without finishing on a double

When you bust, the entire turn is cancelled. Your score returns to what it was before you threw your first dart of that turn.

Imagine you have 20 points remaining. Your first dart hits 12, leaving eight. Your second dart then hits a single 8 rather than double 4. Although your total has reached zero, you haven’t finished on a double.

The turn is a bust, and your score returns to 20.

It can feel a little harsh. That’s darts.

What Is a Checkout in Darts?

A checkout is the combination of darts used to reduce your remaining score to exactly zero, finishing with a double.

Some scores can be completed with one dart. These include:

• • 40 with double 20

• • 32 with double 16

• • 24 with double 12

• • 16 with double 8

• • 10 with double 5

Higher scores may need two or three darts.

For example, 60 could be finished with single 20 followed by double 20. A confident player might aim straight for the treble 20, but that only works if it lands perfectly.

Professional players memorise a long list of checkout routes. Beginners don’t need to do that. Start by trying to leave yourself with an even number that matches a double you feel comfortable aiming for.

If you’re playing Electric Darts at Spinners, the system tracks the scores as you go. That means less time working out what’s left and more time focusing on the next throw.

How Do You Decide Who Throws First?

There are several ways to choose the first player.

A common method is for each player to throw one dart at the bullseye. The person whose dart lands closest to the centre goes first. This is often called throwing for the bull.

For a relaxed game, you can also toss a coin, use the order shown on the screen or simply let the person who organised the outing go first.

The starting player can have a small advantage in 501 because they get the first opportunity to reach zero. If you’re playing several games, alternate who starts each one.

How Far Away Do You Stand From a Dartboard?

In standard steel-tip darts, the front of the throwing line is 2.37 metres from the face of the dartboard. The centre of the bullseye is normally positioned 1.73 metres above the floor.

The throwing line is known as the oche, pronounced “ockey”.

Your feet must remain behind the line when you release the dart. You can lean forwards, but you can’t step across the oche during the throw.

At Spinners, each private Electric Darts bay has floor markers showing where to stand. Pick the marker that suits you and use the same position each turn. A consistent starting point makes it easier to develop a repeatable throw.

How to Throw a Dart

There’s no single technique that works for everybody, but a few basic principles can make your throw more controlled.

Find a stable stance

Stand side-on or at a slight angle to the board, with your leading foot close to the throwing line. Keep both feet steady and place most of your weight comfortably through your front leg.

Avoid moving your whole body as you throw. The less unnecessary movement you make, the easier it becomes to repeat the action.

Hold the dart lightly

Grip the dart firmly enough to control it, but don’t squeeze too tightly.

Most players use their thumb and two or three fingers. Experiment until the dart feels balanced in your hand. Your grip should feel natural rather than forced.

Keep your elbow steady

Raise your throwing arm so that your elbow points towards the board. Try to keep the elbow in roughly the same position during the throw.

Your forearm should do most of the work, moving forwards in a smooth action.

Aim at a specific point

Don’t simply aim at the general area of the board. Choose a precise point within the number or scoring ring you want to hit.

Keeping your eyes on one small target can improve your accuracy and stop your attention wandering during the throw.

Follow through

Release the dart smoothly and allow your hand to continue towards the target. Your fingers should finish pointing towards the section you were aiming for.

Stopping the movement suddenly can pull the dart away from its intended line.

Seven Darts Tips for Beginners

A good darts throw comes from consistency rather than force. These tips can help you settle into the game.

1. Aim for a large target first

Treble 20 may score the most points, but it’s also a very small target.

When you’re learning, aim for the larger single section. Three steady scores are usually better than one lucky treble followed by two misses.

2. Use the same stance every time

Place your feet in the same position at the start of each turn. This gives your body a familiar base and removes one more variable from your throw.

3. Keep your head still

Moving your head or upper body can affect the direction of the dart. Stay balanced and let your forearm create the throwing motion.

4. Don’t throw too hard

Darts don’t need a huge amount of force to reach the board. Throwing harder can make your action less controlled and pull your aim off line.

A smooth throw usually produces better results.

5. Watch where your misses land

Your missed darts can tell you what needs changing.

If your darts repeatedly land below the target, you may need a little more height or follow-through. If they keep drifting left or right, check your stance, grip and release.

Make one small adjustment at a time.

6. Choose a sensible finishing double

Double 16 and double 20 are popular because missing into the single section still leaves another even number.

For example, if you aim at double 16 but hit single 16, you have 16 left and can aim at double 8.

You don’t need to copy the professionals. Choose the double you can see and hit most comfortably.

7. Relax under pressure

Darts becomes much harder when everybody is watching your attempt to win.

Take a breath, follow your normal routine and focus on the exact point you want to hit. Thinking about the result before releasing the dart rarely helps.

The group commentary probably won’t help either. You’ll have to ignore that.

Easy Darts Games for Beginners

501 isn’t the only way to play. Several simpler games are ideal for beginners, families and mixed-ability groups.

Around the Clock

Players must hit the numbers in order, starting with 1 and continuing through to 20.

Once you hit your current number, you move on to the next. The first player to reach and hit 20 wins.

You can make the game harder by requiring players to finish on the bullseye or hit each number’s double.

Cricket

Cricket focuses on the numbers 15 to 20 and the bullseye.

Players must hit each target three times to close it. A single counts as one hit, a double counts as two and a treble counts as three.

Once you have closed a number, you may be able to score additional points on it until your opponent closes it too. The exact rules can vary, so agree on the format before starting.

Killer

Each player is assigned a number. Players first hit their own number enough times to become a “killer”. They can then aim at their opponents’ numbers to remove their lives.

The last player with lives remaining wins.

It’s a good group game because the lead can shift quickly and temporary alliances tend to appear without warning.

High Score

Set a fixed number of rounds and add the score from every throw. The player with the highest total at the end wins.

This is one of the easiest formats for beginners because there are no checkouts or bust rules to remember.

Shanghai

Players work through the numbers in order, usually beginning with 1. During each round, everyone aims at the same number.

A single scores its normal value, a double scores twice the number and a treble scores three times the number.

A Shanghai is achieved by hitting a single, double and treble of the same number within one turn. Depending on the rules you choose, that may win the game instantly.

At Spinners, six game modes give your group different ways to compete. The screens explain the rules, track every dart and keep the game moving, making Electric Darts a great place to discover a new favourite.

Electric Darts vs Traditional Darts

Electric Darts uses the same basic throwing action as traditional pub darts. You still throw real darts at a real board from behind a marked line.

The main difference is the technology.

Magnets within the smart board detect where each dart lands. Your score is then sent to a touchscreen and large TV screen automatically.

That means:

• • No chalkboard

• • No manual scorecard

• • No mental arithmetic

• • No arguments about what somebody hit

• • Six different game modes

• • Live scores displayed for the group

• • On-screen instructions for beginners

Each Electric Darts bay at Spinners is private and holds up to eight players. You can add your names, take a selfie or choose an emoji before starting.

A standard booking lasts for 55 minutes, although session options can vary. Players must be aged 12 or over.

You don’t need to bring your own darts. The smart boards are synced with the darts provided at the venue, so everything will be waiting at your bay.

Common Darts Mistakes to Avoid

Changing your throw after every dart

One poor dart doesn’t mean your whole technique is wrong. Keep your action consistent and make small adjustments.

Aiming at the whole number

Choose a precise point within the segment. A smaller visual target makes it easier to line up the throw.

Using too much force

Darts is about control, not power. A hard throw often brings extra movement into your arm and body.

Leaning too far forwards

A slight lean is fine, but stretching too far can affect your balance and make the release less consistent.

Forgetting the bust rule

Before trying to finish a game of 501, check what will happen if you hit the single, double or treble sections around your target.

Rushing the final dart

Your third dart deserves the same routine as your first. Take a moment, reset your stance and aim properly.

Frequently Asked Questions About Darts

How many darts does each player throw?

Each player normally throws three darts per turn. Once all three have been thrown and the score recorded, the player collects them and the next person takes their turn.

What is the highest score with one dart?

The highest possible score with one dart is 60, achieved by hitting treble 20.

What is the highest score with three darts?

The highest possible score in one turn is 180. This requires three treble 20s.

How many points is the bullseye?

The outer bull scores 25 points and the inner bullseye scores 50.

Do you have to finish darts on a double?

In a standard game of 501, yes. You must reach exactly zero, and the final dart must land in a double or the inner bullseye.

For casual play, you can agree to remove the double-out rule if you want a quicker or easier game.

What happens if a dart falls out of the board?

A dart must remain in the board until the score is recorded. If it bounces out or falls before being counted, it normally scores zero.

With Electric Darts, follow the score shown by the system and speak to the Spinners team if a throw hasn’t registered as expected.

Can your foot cross the throwing line?

Your feet must remain behind the oche when you release the dart. You can lean over the line, but you can’t step beyond it during the throw.

Is darts suitable for beginners?

Yes. Darts takes seconds to understand, although improving your accuracy takes practice.

Electric Darts is especially beginner-friendly because the screens explain the games and keep score automatically.

How many people can play Electric Darts?

Each private Electric Darts bay at Spinners can hold up to eight players. Larger groups can be split across several bays.

If you’re arranging a bigger celebration or team night, explore the group and party packages at Spinners.

Is there an age restriction for Electric Darts?

Yes. Players must be aged 12 or over to play Electric Darts at Spinners. Venue rules for under-18s can vary by time and location, so check the relevant details when booking.

Can you bring your own darts to Spinners?

No. The smart boards work with the darts provided in each bay, so personal darts can’t be used.

Where can you play Electric Darts at Spinners?

Electric Darts is available at every Spinners venue.

You can play Electric Darts in Chester at the Frodsham Street venue in the city centre.

Spinners Plymouth is at The Barcode, close to Drakes Circus and the Barbican.

You’ll find Electric Darts in Reading at Broad Street Mall in the heart of the town centre.

You can also play Electric Darts in Solihull at Touchwood shopping centre, a short trip from Birmingham.

Ready to Step Up to the Oche?

You don’t need a perfect throw, a set of professional darts or a remarkable talent for subtraction to enjoy the game.

Start with a steady stance, focus on a clear target and use the same smooth action each time. Once you’ve found your rhythm, try 501, Around the Clock or another game that gets the whole group involved.

If you’d rather leave the scoring to the technology, Electric Darts has you covered. Add your names, choose one of six game modes and let the smart board do the maths while you concentrate on the bragging rights.

You can also combine darts with more games at Spinners or order from the food and drink menu while you play.

Book Electric Darts at Spinners and see who delivers when the pressure is on.