Figure skating combines athletic jumps, graceful spins, and artistic expression into one of the most watched winter sports. But the scoring system can seem mysterious to newcomers. Let's break it down.
The Two Scores
Each skater receives two scores that are added together:
Technical Element Score (TES)
Points for specific moves: jumps, spins, step sequences, and (in pairs/ice dance) lifts and throws.
Program Component Score (PCS)
Points for artistry: skating skills, transitions, performance, composition, and interpretation of music.
Jump Types (Easiest to Hardest)
- Toe Loop: Take off from back outside edge, assisted by toe pick
- Salchow: Take off from back inside edge
- Loop: Take off from back outside edge without toe assist
- Flip: Take off from back inside edge with toe pick
- Lutz: Take off from back outside edge with toe pick (opposite edge from flip)
- Axel: The only forward-facing takeoff - adds half rotation (triple axel = 3.5 rotations)
Rotation Values
- Single: 1 rotation
- Double: 2 rotations
- Triple: 3 rotations
- Quad: 4 rotations (the most difficult)
How Jumps Are Scored
Each jump has a base value. Judges then add or subtract based on execution:
- GOE (Grade of Execution): -5 to +5 scale
- Clean landing, good height, speed = positive GOE
- Fall, under-rotation, wrong edge = negative GOE or no value
Spins and Step Sequences
Spins earn points based on position variety, speed, and centering. Step sequences reward footwork complexity and musical interpretation.
Deductions
- Fall: -1 point per fall
- Time violation: -1 point
- Costume malfunction: -1 point
Competition Format
Short Program
Required elements in a shorter time frame. Sets the starting order for the free skate.
Free Skate (Long Program)
Longer program with more freedom in element choice. Combined scores determine the winner.
Disciplines
- Men's Singles
- Women's Singles
- Pairs: Throws, lifts, side-by-side jumps
- Ice Dance: Emphasis on dance, lifts must stay below shoulder height
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