How does one calculate the endgame of darts? For instance 54.?

Question

You have to end the game with a double. How do you calculate what throws is best for you?

Answer 1

for 54, there are several ways given 3 throws:

20, then 17x2 = 20 + 34 = 54

10, 16, then 14x2 = 10 + 16 + 14 = 54

--you don't need to use all 3 throw on your turn

--the best throw is what you're good at hitting, etc.  For example, if you tend to veer off to the sides while keeping the height steady, leave the 5, 20, 1, 19, 3, and 17 for the last double as you'll have a better chance of getting those than anything else.

--otherwise, just go singles (no doubles or triples) until you're within reach of winning the "double out" on your turn.  The normal sections are much better gaurantees than relying on doubles or triples to make your way towards endgame

--You can also "play it by ear", and determine what you'll need as you keep scoring and nearning the end.  Keep in mind in official games, judges may tell you how many poitns you need, but not HOW to get it.  (e.g. "21 points left" is OK, but "a 1 and a double 10" is not allowed)

--if you get down to 1 left, that whole turn is automatically a bust.  For example....

52 - 15 = 37

37 - 20 = 17

17 - 8x2 = 1 (you still bust and have to redo on your next turn)