Kata Panel Scoring with Auto-Drop
Kata panel scoring (the Kata Points format) is the numeric system: each judge scores every performance, the highest and lowest scores are dropped, and the remainder decides the ranking. It pairs with the ranking-list bracket, where competitors perform in order rather than head-to-head.
Panel configuration
In the scoreboard configuration you set:
| Setting | Options |
|---|---|
| Number of judges | 3, 5, or 7 (default 5) |
| Score range | Minimum and maximum, default 5.0 – 10.0 |
| Increment | Default 0.1 |
| Drop high/low | On or off (on for WKF- and AAU-style scoring) |
Entering scores
Competitors appear in performance order. After each kata, the operator enters one score per judge — five inputs for a five-judge panel. The running total and average update as scores go in, and submitting moves the queue to the next competitor. Judges can also submit their own scores from their phones using the judge device, feeding the same panel.
The auto-drop
With drop enabled on a five-judge panel, the single highest and single lowest scores are discarded and the remaining three count. A panel of 7.0 / 7.2 / 7.5 / 7.8 / 8.0 scores as 7.2 + 7.5 + 7.8 — the 7.0 and 8.0 are dropped automatically. This is the standard mechanism for limiting the influence of any single judge, and it happens with zero table math.
Three-judge panels: dropping two of three scores leaves a single judge deciding — most events run three-judge panels with drop off and five- or seven-judge panels with drop on.
Ranking and results
The division ranks by score, highest first. Standings update live on the kata TV display as each competitor finishes, and final placements flow into results and award certificates like any other division.
Ties
The scoreboard does not force an automatic tie-break — governing bodies differ on the procedure (compare dropped scores, re-perform, judges' decision). When two competitors finish level, apply your federation's rule and adjust the placement accordingly. The scores themselves remain on record either way.