10 Common Darts Mistakes and How to Fix Them

October 6, 2026

These are the ten mistakes I see most in coaching sessions, with a simple fix for each.

Mistake	Quick fix
1. Square-on stance	Turn side-on and lead with your throwing foot. See the stance guide.
2. Gripping too tight	Hold it just firmly enough to control it. White knuckles mean too tight.
3. Moving the elbow too early	Keep the elbow as still as you can until the release.
4. No follow-through	Finish with your hand pointing at the target.
5. Leaning and swaying	Keep your weight steady and your head still.
6. Rushing the throw	Use the same short routine before every dart.
7. Changing technique after one bad leg	Judge changes over weeks, not single legs.
8. Practising only treble 20	Spend at least a third of your practice on doubles.
9. Not knowing checkouts	Learn the key finishes.
10. Never filming yourself	Film side-on. You will spot more in 30 seconds than in a month of guessing.

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