Darts checkout strategy

Knowing that 100 is treble 20, double 20 is the start. Good finishing also means choosing the route that still leaves a chance when the first dart misses, and setting up a finish when you can't take one out.

1. Plan for the miss

When you aim at a treble, the most likely miss is the single of the same number. Choose routes where that miss still leaves a finish. On 100, if your treble 20 drops into the single 20 you're left on 80, which is still treble 20, double 10. That's one reason players choose T20 D20 over other ways of making 100. Every checkout page on this site has a "what if you miss" table for exactly this.

2. Finish on doubles that split

Double 16, double 8 and double 20 are popular because a dart in the single still leaves another double. See the doubles guide for how each double splits.

3. Avoid the bull unless there is no choice

The bull is a small target. On 110 the two-dart route is T20 then Bull, but many players prefer a three-dart route through single 10 and double 20, because a missed bull often leaves an awkward score. On 170, 167, 164 and 161, the bull is the only way out.

4. Count down, not up

Know your score before you step up to throw. After each dart, work out what's left and what you need next. This takes practice, and the checkout trainer shows the remaining score after every dart to help.

5. Set up when you can't finish

Above 170, or on a bogey number, use your visit to leave a two-dart finish or a favourite double. Leaving 32 or 40 is ideal, and anything in the 60s to 100 leaves a two-dart chance.

6. Have a favourite route and stick to it

There is often more than one sensible way out. What matters is that you choose the same way every time, so the numbers come automatically under pressure. Use the checkout calculator to see the options, pick yours, then drill it.