How To Get Better at Darts Grouping? Tips For Beginners
Key Takeaways
- Dart’s Grouping is where you land each of your three darts side by side in proximity.
- One of the best beginner-friendly grouping practice games you can play is the sticky note game
- Darts uses muscle memory: the more you practice grouping, the easier it is in games.
How To Get Better at Darts Grouping?
There are various practice games that can help with better grouping darts, which include:
- The post-it note game
- Moving the grouping target around the dartboard
- Go where the first dart lands
- Practice grouping sets
The Post-it Note Game
The post-it note game is a simple trick I found really helpful to improve my grouping.
How does it work:
- Take a sticky note and stick it to the face of the board.
- You can also use pieces of paper pinned to the board.
- Place the targets anywhere you like.
- Random positions are better than placing it in the same general area you usually aim for, such as around treble 20 for example.
- However, if you are a beginner, I wouldn’t worry too much about the sticky notes positioning.
- The idea is to aim for the sticky note with all three darts, one after the other, and try to land them side by side.
- When you begin, you can use a bigger target, but as you get better, gradually reduce the size of the sticky note until you are grouping on the board without it.
Move The Grouping Target Around The Dartboard
As I mentioned, you can place your targets anywhere on the dartboard.
This will also help if you are having difficulty, not only with grouping, but also help with the precision of being able to hit certain areas of the board better.
For example:
- If you are struggling to hit the 20s.
- You can place a sticky note in the big single bed and aim to group in that region of the board.
- Over time will help you to get better at not only grouping but also getting better at weak areas on the board.
Go Where The First Dart Lands
A great practice game you can play to improve at grouping, is to go where the first dart lands.
The game is simple, throw a dart anywhere on the board.
This is known as the marker and provides the target for your next 2 darts.
Additionally, instead of aiming for the dart itself, aim for the flight instead. So technically it doesn’t matter where the first dart is on the board, it’s all about getting the other two as close to it as possible in practice.
The more you learn to group, the easier it will be in pressurized games to land all three side by side in the big trebles.
Alternatively:
- Use a static dart in the dartboard as the marker
- It helps with getting used to throwing three darts in a consistent motion
- No need to reset your stance and focus after the first dart is thrown randomly into the board
Practice Grouping Sets
Once you have got better at grouping darts together anywhere on the board, it’s time to hone your skills further by becoming more direct in your approach.
The natural progression for most players is to begin practicing specific grouping sets.
Many people make the mistake of just trying to get better at landing in the treble 20 bed. Ultimately, if this is only where your focus is then your skill set will become limited and certainly unbalanced.
Learn how to group across the whole dartboard by:
- Starting with the treble 20
- Move down to the 19’s
- Back up to the 18’s and then follow like this all the way around your board.
The benefits will be seen when you have to switch between throws because of a blocked bed or when trying to achieve a favorable out.
Is Darts a Muscle Memory?
The reason grouping gets easier in darts games, off the back of lots of practice, is because of muscle memory.
Repetition causes the muscle to develop memory, and bunching the darts together can become second nature as a result.
It can almost be described as an automatic response that happens every time you throw the first dart, to follow with the other two.
Obviously, if your first dart is bad, it can also have a knock on effect as well.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is Darts Grouping?
Darts grouping refers to the ability to throw darts consistently close together on the dartboard, indicating control and precision in one’s throws.
Why Is Good Grouping Important in Darts?
Good grouping demonstrates consistent technique and accuracy. Even if the first dart isn’t exactly where intended, tight grouping ensures that subsequent darts are close, maximizing scoring potential.
How Can I Improve My Darts Grouping?
Consistent practice, focusing on your stance, grip, and release, can help improve grouping. It’s essential to develop a repeatable throwing motion.
Does My Stance Affect Grouping?
Yes, a stable and consistent stance provides a solid foundation for your throw. Ensure your leading foot is flat on the ground and pointing towards the board.
How Does Grip Impact Grouping?
A consistent grip ensures that the dart is released the same way each time. Find a grip that’s comfortable and allows for a smooth release, and stick with it.
Should I Focus on Speed or Technique First?
Always prioritize technique. Once you have a consistent technique, you can work on adjusting the speed or force of your throw if needed.
How Can I Practice Grouping Effectively?
Aim for a specific segment on the board and try to get all your darts as close together as possible, regardless of whether you hit the intended segment. Over time, your grouping will tighten.
Do Professional Players Have Any Drills for Grouping?
Many professionals practice by aiming at the treble 20 or bullseye and trying to group their darts tightly around that area. Some also use narrower segments or smaller boards to challenge their precision.
How Important Is Follow-Through in Achieving Tight Grouping?
Follow-through is crucial. A consistent and full follow-through ensures that the dart’s trajectory is stable and that the force applied is consistent across throws.
Can Watching Others Help Improve My Grouping?
Absolutely. Watching professionals can provide insights into effective techniques and strategies. However, it’s essential to remember that everyone’s throw is unique, so adapt what you learn to your style.
Should I Consider Coaching to Improve My Grouping?
If you’re serious about improving, a coach can provide personalized feedback and guidance, helping you refine your technique and achieve tighter grouping.
