How to Keep Score in Table Tennis

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By eHow Contributing Writer

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(18 Ratings)

Scoring table tennis doesn't include "loves" and "deuces" like court tennis. Instead, players battle their way to 11 points (although some people may choose to play to 21).

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

Athletic Gear
Table Tennis Balls
Table Tennis Nets
Table Tennis Paddles
Table Tennis Playing Tables
Table Tennis Video

Step 1

Give yourself a point if your opponent faults on both the first and second serve attempts. A player faults if he or she fails to hit the ball over the net.
Step 2

Award yourself a point if your opponent fails to hit a clean return shot. This could include hitting the ball past the table, hitting the ball into the net or failing to hit the ball altogether.
Step 3

Reward yourself with a point if your opponent strikes the ball twice consecutively. This often happens when a player strikes the ball awkwardly off the side of the paddle.
Step 4

Give yourself a point if your opponent moves the playing surface while the ball is in play. A player should not have his or her hand resting on the table.
Step 5

Enjoy another point if your opponent obstructs the ball in play. An example of this is making contact with the ball by hand instead of by paddle.
Step 6

Note that a game is won when either player/team reaches 11 points, unless both players (or teams) tie at 10 each. The game is then immediately decided when one player (or team) takes a 2-point advantage (for example, a final score of 13-11).
Step 7

Call out the score of the game before every service, making sure to announce the server's score first.

Comments

raylemon said

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on 9/8/2009 check the ittf website for the rules. it is always the most accurate and updated.

Matches are played at best of 3, best of 5, and best of 7. there is no 2nd fault or not. a fault is a fault. an umpire can choose to give a warning first. there is no 2nd chance if the ball doesnt get over the net in the first place.
changing ends and service is only for doubles.
anyways no offence but i think this article is too vague and has too many mistakes.

Awarding of points are all up to the discretion of the umpire.

Anonymous said

on 11/22/2005 An official game is currently 11 points, information on Table Tennis Rules can be found at the website of the United States Association of Table Tennis [USATT], there is also good articles by people such as Sean O'Neil and Larry Hodges, information on local clubs and upcoming tournaments.

on 11/22/2005 The racket hand is an extension of the racket; if the ball hits the racket hand (below the wrist), the ball is still in play. There are also no second serves, with the exception of a let.