Become Fighter
Points, advantages and penalties: Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu guide
How IBJJF-style matches are scored and how to use that to win.
Most major gi and no-gi events use an IBJJF-style scoring system. Rules vary between events and change over time, so always read the current rulebook for the competition you enter.
In the usual scheme: takedown 2 points, sweep 2, knee on belly 2, guard pass 3, mount 4 and back control with hooks 4. You must hold a position for about three seconds to score. A submission wins immediately.
Key points
- Points are awarded only after control for roughly three seconds.
- Advantages go to a player who nearly scores or nearly submits. They break ties.
- Penalties go to stalling, illegal grips and unsafe techniques, and they can add up to a loss.
- Illegal moves vary by belt: check the rules for slams, certain leg locks and neck cranks.
- Time limits depend on age and belt. Know yours.
Common mistakes and how to fix them
- Not reading the rulebook. Read it for every event. Rules differ by organisation, belt and age.
- Ignoring advantages. Use near-misses. A single advantage can decide the match.
- Stalling when ahead. Keep attacking within safe positions. Stalling earns penalties.
The rest is in the app
The step-by-step breakdown, the timed drill with the coach calling the shots and the quiz are part of Become Fighter Pro, where this lesson sits in the Competition craft module of Jiu-jitsu foundations.
Get it on Google Play. Coming soon to the App Store.
More from Competition craft
- Gi versus no-gi: Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu guide
- Match strategy: takedown or guard pull: Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu guide
- Competition day: nerves and warm-up: Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu guide
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Combat sports training is hard on the body. Warm up, stay within your limits and check with a doctor first if you have a health condition. Practise in a clear space and stop if you feel pain or dizziness. Learn partner work only under a qualified coach.