At the end of the contest the numbers on the board show which side has more points. That numerical result is the score. It is the official record of who succeeded under the rules.

Scores accumulate through goals, tries, baskets, times, or other sport-specific methods. Intermediate scores shape tactics as teams chase leads or protect them. Final scores enter permanent records and historical comparisons. Some sports use aggregate scores across multiple legs to decide ties.

Athletes play with constant awareness of the current score and the time remaining. A scoreline can motivate a comeback or enforce caution. Officials and scorers ensure accuracy because disputes about the score undermine the result itself.

• Numerical record of points achieved
• Determines the winner of a contest
• Influences in-game strategy
• Preserved in official records