Scoring in Pickleball can seem confusing at first, but once you understand the basics, it’s surprisingly simple! Whether you're a beginner or just need a refresher, this guide will break down the easiest way to learn pickleball scoring, so you can focus on enjoying the game.
Understanding the Basics
How to Win a Game
✔️ Games are typically played to 11 points.
✔️ You must win by at least 2 points (e.g. 11-9, 12-10).
✔️ Only the serving team can score points.
Unlike many other sports, in pickleball, you don’t score points when your opponents make an error unless you are serving. This makes serving a crucial part of the game!
How to Announce the Score
Before every serve, the server must call out the score in the following format:
[Serving team’s score] – [Receiving team’s score] – [Server number]
For example, if the serving team has 3 points, the receiving team has 2 points, and the first server is about to serve, they would announce:
🗣 "Three – Two – One!"
This helps all players keep track of the game.
Understanding the Server Number (Doubles Play)
In doubles pickleball, each player on a team gets a chance to serve before the other team takes over, except at the very start of the game.
The first server of the team is Server 1.
The second server is Server 2.
How Does It Work?
If Server 1 wins the point, they continue serving from the opposite side.
If Server 1 loses the rally, their partner (Server 2) then serves.
If Server 2 loses the rally, the serve switches to the other team.
🚨 Exception: At the start of the game, only one player serves before the serve switches to the other team. That’s why the first score announcement will be "0-0-2" – meaning the serving team starts with their second server.
Singles Scoring
Scoring in singles is even easier!
You still only score points on your serve.
The server moves left or right depending on whether their score is odd or even.
If the server’s score is even (0, 2, 4, etc.), they serve from the right.
If the server’s score is odd (1, 3, 5, etc.), they serve from the left.
Visual & Video Resources
If you’re more of a visual learner, these resources will help you master pickleball scoring quickly:
🎥 Watch this video explanation: Pickleball Scoring – YouTube
Final Thoughts: Scoring Made Simple
Once you’ve played a few games, pickleball scoring will feel natural. Just remember:✅ Call out the score before serving.✅ Only the serving team can score points.✅ Doubles teams each get two servers (except on the first point).✅ In singles, serve from the right when your score is even and the left when it’s odd.
The best way to learn? Get on the court and play! Before you know it, you’ll be calling out scores and winning points like a pro.
👉 Want to put your skills to the test? Book your next session at www.pure-pickleball.com
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