Points and Scoring

What it is

Under IBJJF rules a takedown scores 2, a sweep 2, knee on belly 2, a guard pass 3, mount 4 and back control 4. Every position must be held for 3 seconds to count, side control by itself scores nothing, and a submission ends the match whatever the score. The points reward getting to and holding better positions.

Where it shows up

• Takedown 2: from standing to the ground with you on top, held 3 seconds. Pulling guard scores nothing.
• Sweep 2: from guard or half guard to the top. A reversal from under mount or side control scores nothing.
• Guard pass 3: past the legs into side control, north-south, knee on belly or mount, held 3 seconds. Side control itself scores nothing; the pass into it does. Pass straight into mount is 3 plus 4, so 7.
• Knee on belly 2, mount 4, back control 4 with the hooks in and the legs not crossed. Each needs the 3-second hold.

Key details

• Hold for 3 seconds. Every position scores only once it is held, so settle before you move on.
• Chains add up: pass to knee on belly to mount is 3, then 2, then 4.
• Advantages do not add to the score. They are the first tiebreaker, then fewer penalties, then the referee decides.
• Penalties climb in four steps: a warning marked on the scoreboard, then an advantage to the opponent, then 2 points to the opponent, then disqualification. A serious foul, such as a slam, an illegal technique or fleeing the mat to avoid a submission, is an immediate disqualification.
• Match time for adults: white belt 5 minutes, blue 6, purple 7, brown 8, black 10. A tap by hand, foot or voice, or the referee stopping it, ends the match whatever the score.

Common mistakes

• Mistake: moving on from a pass after 2 seconds to chase mount. The pass is not held, and if the mount is not held either you score nothing.
• Mistake: counting side control as points. It is the pass that scored, and if you never passed (say, after a reversal) you have nothing.
• Mistake: crossing your feet in back control. It is an advantage only, not 4 points, and your crossed ankle is there for them to attack.
• Mistake: collecting penalties while ahead. The third one gives them 2 points and the fourth is a disqualification.