What Happens If You Go Below 0 in Darts?

ঘarts is a game of precision, skill, and strategy. One of the most popular formats of the game is 501 or 301, where players start with a set score and work their way down to exactly zero. But what happens if you accidentally score too many points and go below zero?

In this article, we’ll explore what happens when you bust in darts, the rules surrounding it, and strategies to avoid this common mistake.

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Understanding the Bust Rule in Darts

When playing traditional 501 or 301, the goal is to reduce your score to exactly 0, with your final dart landing in a double or the bullseye (in certain formats). If you go below zero, you commit what is known as a bust.

What is a Bust in Darts?

A bust occurs when:

1. You score more points than you have left (e.g., you have 10 points remaining and hit a 12).

2. You leave yourself with 1 point remaining in a double-out game (since you must finish on a double).

3. You reduce your score to exactly 0 but do not finish with a double.

When a bust happens, your turn immediately ends, and your score is reset to what it was at the beginning of that turn. Your opponent then takes their turn.

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Examples of Bust Scenarios

Scenario 1: Scoring More Than Needed

• You have 16 points left and aim for Double 8 to win.

• Instead, you accidentally hit Triple 5, which is 15 points.

• Your score would be 16 – 15 = 1, but since you must finish on a double, this is an invalid score.

• Bust! Your score resets to 16, and your turn ends.

Scenario 2: Ending with an Odd Number in a Double-Out Game

• You have 5 points left and aim for a Single 1, followed by a Double 2.

• You accidentally hit Single 3, leaving you with 2 points.

• You now need a Double 1 to finish, but you accidentally hit Single 1, leaving you at 1 point.

• Bust! Your score resets to 5, and your turn ends.

Scenario 3: Not Finishing on a Double

• You have 12 points left and aim for Double 6.

• You hit Single 12 instead, reducing your score to 0 but not finishing on a double.

• Since the rules require a double to win, this is an invalid checkout.

• Bust! Your score resets to 12, and your turn ends.

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What Happens After a Bust?

• Your score resets to what it was at the start of your turn.

• Your turn immediately ends (even if you have darts left).

• Your opponent gets to throw next.

This rule prevents players from benefiting from an accidental high-scoring throw when they are close to winning.

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How to Avoid Going Below Zero in Darts

1. Know Your Outshots

Professional players memorize outshots (finishing combinations) to avoid busting. Here are some examples:

• 40 remaining? Aim for Double 20.

• 32 remaining? Aim for Double 16.

• 24 remaining? Aim for Double 12.

• If you have 50 left, aim for Single 10 + Double 20 or just the Bullseye.

2. Play It Safe on Your Last Dart

If you’re not confident in hitting a double, aim for a setup shot instead. For example, if you have 19 left, instead of risking a Single 19 (which would leave you at 0 but not on a double), aim for a Single 3 to leave Double 8 next turn.

3. Avoid Rushing Your Throws

Many players bust because they rush their final dart. Take your time, aim carefully, and mentally double-check your remaining score before throwing.

4. Use a Marker Dart

Some professional players use a marker dart to set up their finish. For example, if you have 32 left but are struggling with Double 16, you might throw a Single 16 first to leave yourself Double 8.

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Strategies to Improve Your Finishing Game

1. Practice Doubling Out

A great way to avoid busting is to practice finishing combinations. Many pros recommend starting practice sessions with a “doubles game,” where you only throw at doubles until you hit one.

2. Use a Dart Scoring App

Some apps and online tools help track your score and suggest the best checkout routes. These can be useful in learning efficient ways to finish a leg without busting.

3. Watch the Pros

Watching professional dart players in tournaments like the PDC World Darts Championship can teach you smart ways to finish a game. Pros rarely bust because they know their numbers and adjust their strategy in real time.

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Conclusion: The Importance of Avoiding a Bust in Darts

Going below zero in darts results in a bust, meaning your score resets, and you lose your turn. This can be frustrating, especially when you’re close to winning, but with the right strategy, preparation, and practice, you can minimize the chances of this happening.

By learning outshoots, playing it safe, and taking your time on crucial shots, you’ll improve your ability to close out games efficiently—and avoid the heartbreak of busting at the wrong moment.

So next time you’re at the oche (throw line), stay focused, calculate your finish, and aim carefully—because in darts, every point matters! 🎯