Street dance competitions are full of energy, excitement, and impressive moves, but how are they judged? What exactly makes a dancer stand out and grab the judges' attention?

Whether you're a seasoned competitor or a beginner hoping to step into the scene, understanding the scoring criteria can give you the edge you need to shine in a competition.

Here's an in-depth look at how street dance contests are judged and what to focus on when preparing for one.

1. Technique: The Foundation of Your Moves

Technique is the backbone of street dance. Judges look for precision, control, and proper execution of the moves. Whether you're busting out popping, locking, or breaking, how cleanly you perform each move makes a significant impact on your score.

• Actionable Tip: Master the fundamentals. Before focusing on advanced tricks, ensure you have a solid understanding of basic movements like footwork, isolation, and posture. Perfecting your foundation will make your performance look more polished and controlled.

In competitions, judges will notice when you're able to execute moves with smooth transitions, sharp lines, and no hesitation. This shows not only skill but confidence. A great technique can elevate an average routine into something memorable.

2. Musicality: Syncing with the Beat

Street dance is deeply connected to music. Your ability to interpret the rhythm, melody, and emotion of the track is key in making your performance stand out. Judges will look for how well your movements align with the music, especially during freestyle sections or musical breakdowns.

• Actionable Tip: Practice dancing to various genres of music. By improving your ability to feel and understand different musical styles, you'll develop a better sense of musicality. Pay attention to the beat drops, the tempo, and how the music shifts so that your movements echo the sound.

Musicality isn't just about dancing to the rhythm; it's about making the music your partner. When you dance in tune with the music, your performance becomes more dynamic and engaging, making you more likely to impress the judges.

3. Creativity: Standing Out from the Crowd

One of the most exciting aspects of street dance is the freedom to express yourself. Judges love when a dancer brings something fresh and unique to the floor. Creativity includes not just your moves but your overall approach to the routine—whether it's through innovative transitions, unexpected combinations, or even the energy you bring to the performance.

• Actionable Tip: Take risks! Don't be afraid to experiment with new movements or unusual combinations. While it's important to stay true to your style, blending elements from other dance genres or adding unexpected twists can make your routine stand out.

Creative choreography shows that you're thinking outside the box and pushing boundaries, which is essential in a competition where judges see hundreds of dancers. If you can surprise them, your performance will be memorable.

4. Stage Presence: Owning the Spotlight

Street dance is all about the energy you bring to the stage. A dancer's stage presence can often make or break their performance. Judges are not only assessing your technical skills but also how you command attention and connect with the audience. Confidence and charisma are key here.

• Actionable Tip: Practice dancing in front of a mirror or with a group of people. Get used to performing under pressure, so that when it's time for the real deal, you can focus on projecting your energy into the crowd.

Stage presence is more than just performing the moves correctly. It's about telling a story and capturing the audience's attention. Confidence and attitude can make a routine feel larger than life, even if the moves are simple.

5. Execution of Choreography: Precision in Timing

In choreographed routines, judges are looking for how well you stick to the plan. While freestyle sections are about showcasing individuality, the choreographed parts should be executed precisely. Timing, synchronization (if you're with a crew), and flow are crucial to your overall score.

• Actionable Tip: Rehearse until the moves are second nature. When you're in the moment, the last thing you want to be thinking about is whether you're hitting the right beats. Muscle memory is the key to flawless execution.

Good execution shows that you're disciplined and have put in the work. It also makes your routine look tight and coordinated, which is something judges appreciate. Perfect timing makes your performance look polished and professional.

6. Interaction and Connection with the Crew (If Applicable)

For crew-based street dance battles, how well the team interacts plays a big role in the judging. Crew performances are assessed not just on individual moves, but how the members support each other, maintain eye contact, and stay in sync as a collective unit. A crew's chemistry and unity can sometimes outweigh individual brilliance.

• Actionable Tip: If you're part of a crew, make sure to rehearse together frequently. Focus on synchronization, teamwork, and building trust. The stronger the connection between you and your crew, the more powerful your performance will be.

Good crew chemistry tells the judges that you're a unified force, and a synchronized crew will always leave a lasting impression on the audience. Even though individual performances matter, the collective energy you share as a team can win you points.

7. Overall Impression: The Final Feeling

Lastly, judges take everything into account and award an overall impression score. This category is subjective, but it takes into account your overall performance, energy, and how you bring all the elements together. Judges will ask themselves: Did you make an impact? Was the performance memorable?

• Actionable Tip: Always leave it all on the dance floor. Whether you're dancing solo or with a crew, give 100% energy from start to finish. The passion and fire you show during your performance can sway judges more than anything else.

An outstanding overall impression comes from consistently hitting all the right notes, blending technique, musicality, creativity, and stage presence seamlessly. When you truly feel the music and deliver your best, it resonates with the judges and audience alike.

Understanding these scoring criteria gives you a solid foundation for what to focus on in a street dance competition. Whether you're competing alone or with a crew, remember to bring your energy, style, and heart to the stage. Perfect the fundamentals, be creative, and own your performance—these are the keys to leaving a lasting impression and taking home that trophy.