Do you want to know exactly how cornhole scoring works? On this page we explain step by step how to count points, how cancellation scoring works, and how to avoid common mistakes. Cornhole seems simple, but the scoring system is what creates tension and strategy. For the complete set of official cornhole rules you can always go back to our main pillar Official Cornhole Rules & Scoring or the full Cornhole Knowledge Center.
New to the game? First read What Is Cornhole? to understand the basics of the game.
The basics of cornhole scoring
The scoring in cornhole revolves around three simple point values. These form the basis for all further rules and scoring examples.
- 1 point – “Woody”: A bag that remains on the board at the end of the round.
- 3 points – “Cornhole”: A bag that goes through the hole, either directly or after a bounce.
- 0 points – Foul bag: A bag that is thrown illegally, touches the ground before the board, or is otherwise invalid.
You can find more details about the difference between “woody” and “cornhole” in Clarifying the “Woody” vs “Cornhole” Scoring Terms.
How cancellation scoring works
Most official cornhole games use cancellation scoring. This means that points cancel each other out within each round. Only the difference is added to the total score of the player or team with the higher round score.
Example:
- Player A scores 7 points
- Player B scores 4 points
- Round score = 7 – 4 = 3 points for Player A.
For an even deeper understanding of cancellation scoring, including exceptions, read Understanding Cancellation Scoring in Cornhole.
Examples of scoring per round
Example 1: Simple round
- Team Red: 4 points
- Team Blue: 2 points
- 2 points for Team Red
Example 2: Full cancellation
- Team Red: 6 points
- Team Blue: 6 points
Result: 0 points added
Example 3: High-scoring round
- Team Red: 10 points
- Team Blue: 4 points
6 points for Team Red
What counts as a foul bag?
Not every bag that touches the board automatically counts. A foul bag or invalid bag always yields 0 points. Examples:
- The bag hits the ground first before landing on the board
- The player throws from outside their pitcher’s box
- The player commits a foot fault
- The throw is made out of turn
You can find all foul scenarios in Cornhole Foul Rules: Foot Faults, Illegal Throws & More.
When does the game end?
The standard winning score is 21 points. Variations include:
- Win-by-2 rules
- Score caps
- Sudden death tiebreakers
Learn more in Regulation Cornhole Game Length & Winning Score.
Who starts the next round?
The player or team that won the previous round also starts the next round.
More explanation: How Turn Order Works in Cornhole Matches.
Common misconceptions
- “A bag that’s half hanging always counts” → not always correct
- “Cornholes always count” → not on foul throws
- “First to 21 always wins” → depends on the format
More misconceptions in Common Rule Misunderstandings in Cornhole.
Further learning & training
FAQ: Cornhole scoring
How many points is a woody worth?
A woody is worth 1 point.
How many points is a cornhole worth?
A cornhole is worth 3 points.
What is cancellation scoring?
Points within a round cancel each other out. The difference is added to the total score.
Do you always play to 21?
Usually yes, but some tournaments use other variants. See game length & winning score.
