How to Keep Score in Pickleball

Pickleball has exploded in popularity across the country, drawing players of all ages with its fast pace and fun social vibe. Whether you’re jumping into your first match or sharpening your skills, understanding how to keep score in pickleball sets the stage for every point played. Beginners often get tripped up by the quirky scoring system, especially when switching between singles and doubles formats. Learning how the numbers work sets you up for less confusion and more fun on the court.

Understanding Basic Pickleball Scoring

The unique pickleball scoring system uses a three-number sequence for doubles and a two-number format for singles. Here’s how it breaks down:

• Doubles scoring reads as: Server’s score, Receiver’s score, and Server Number (1 or 2).
• Singles scoring skips the server number and just calls the server’s score and the receiver's score.

In pickleball, only the serving team can win points. The receiving side gets a chance only when they regain the serve, called a "side out." Serve rotation and score-calling are as much a part of the sport as any volley or dink shot you’ll play.

Want a detailed look at why these numbers matter and how to call them out? Check out the Pickleball Scoring And Positioning guide from USA Pickleball for clear visuals and rules.

Scoring in Doubles Pickleball

Doubles pickleball brings its own twist: each player on the serving side gets to serve — except for the first serve in a game where it's just one. Here’s how a turn works:

• The team starts with Player 1 serving from the right.
• If they win a point, the server switches sides and serves again.
• After a fault (mistake) by Player 1, their partner (Player 2) gets to serve from their current side.
• Only after both servers fault does a side out happen and the other team gets the ball.

The score is called out as three numbers — server’s score, receiver’s score, and server number (either 1 or 2). For example, “5-2-1” means the serving team has 5 points, the receiving team has 2, and it's the first server’s turn.

For an easy walk-through on doubles scoring, the Wilson guide on how to score in pickleball runs through common situations and shows why the third number starts at 2 in a new game.

Examples of Doubles Scoring Calls

Picture these scoring calls during a match:

• 0-0-2: Game start, the second server starts due to rules.
• 6-5-1: Your team has 6, opponents have 5, and it’s the first server’s turn.
• 8-3-2: Your team is ahead, it’s the second server’s chance.

Clearly calling scores like this keeps everyone on the same page and avoids awkward score disputes.

Scoring in Singles Pickleball

Singles play is simpler since each side only gets one serve per turn. Here’s what’s different:

• Call the server’s score first, then the receiver’s score (just two numbers).
• Players serve from the right when their score is even, the left when it’s odd.
• If the serving player wins a rally, they score a point and serve again, switching sides for the next point.

There’s no server number here — it’s all about remembering whose serve it is and where to stand.

For more on singles and doubles rules, the Rules of Pickleball and scoring tips from Onix gives a friendly breakdown for new players.

Examples of Singles Scoring Calls

Some quick singles scenarios:

• 2-4: Server has 2 points, receiver has 4.
• 7-7: The game is tied, server will serve from the left side.

Announce the server’s score first every time.

Common Scoring Mistakes and Tips for Accurate Scorekeeping

Pickleball is fast and social, so it’s easy to lose the score mid-game. Here’s how to avoid common errors and keep things clear:

• Forgetting the three-number call in doubles: Always add the server number.
• Not switching serves correctly: Know who serves next and from which side.
• Mixing up the serve sides in singles: Check your point total before picking a side.
• Score confusion after long rallies: Double-check scores with your partner often.

Helpful tips for scoring:

• Announce the full score before every serve.
• Confirm with your partner or opponent if there’s any doubt.

Mastering scoring boosts your confidence and keeps games running smoothly.

Conclusion

Learning how to keep score in pickleball is more than just reciting numbers — it’s part of the game that keeps play fair and fun. Whether you’re playing singles or doubles, understanding the difference in the scoring system prevents mix-ups and helps you focus on your next shot. With practice, calling out the pickleball score will feel second nature and improve your overall gameplay. Grab your paddle, keep practicing match scoring, and enjoy playing pickleball with confidence.