Darts Basics for Beginners

Official Measurements

These figures follow official tournament rules (PDC/WDF among others) and are the reliable reference for a home setup too:

The diagonal check measurement (bullseye centre to the oche) lets you verify the correct throw distance even when the board isn't hung at exactly the standard height.

Understanding the Board

The dartboard is divided into 20 numbered segments (1–20, deliberately arranged out of numerical order around the board so high and low numbers don't sit next to each other). Each segment has three scoring zones:

Basic Equipment

Steel-tip vs. soft-tip: Steel-tip darts are played on classic sisal boards and are the standard at clubs and tournaments. Soft-tip darts are played on electronic boards with automatic scoring – hence the slightly longer 2.44m throw distance.

Dart weight: Beginners are generally best served by steel-tip darts in the 20–24g range – lighter than the often heavier standard weight, but easier to control while you're still developing your basic technique and feel for the throw.

Basic Stance & Your First Throw

Stand side-on to the board, dominant leg slightly forward, weight distributed steadily across both feet. The throwing arm moves like a hinge from the elbow – not from the shoulder. More important than power is a consistent, repeatable motion: most beginner mistakes come from an inconsistent routine, not from too little force.

A good first practice step: don't aim for high scores at first – practise hitting the same spot on the board consistently instead. Accuracy before speed.

Once your basic technique feels solid, move on to the rules of the key game modes.