# Compare E then D

> Break ties by comparing execution score first, then difficulty score.

> **Visual guide:** [View the decision tree in Figma](https://www.figma.com/board/2AkNbm1qQt3xnnu9RnZWF8/)

## Prerequisites

* [Set up your levels](/levels/index.md) before configuring tiebreakers.

## Configuration

In your level settings under tiebreaker configuration, choose "Compare E then D." This is the **default** for all ranking contexts, so if you haven't changed anything, you are already using it.

## How it works

1. Two gymnasts have the same **final score** on an apparatus.
2. Compare their **execution scores** (E score). The gymnast with the higher E score ranks first.
3. If execution scores are also tied, compare their **difficulty scores** (D score). The gymnast with the higher D score ranks first.
4. If both E and D are tied, the gymnasts share the same rank.

This rewards **cleaner execution** when final scores are equal.

## Example

Two gymnasts tie on Balance Beam with a final score of 13.450:

| Gymnast | Final Score | E Score | D Score | Result  |
| ------- | ----------- | ------- | ------- | ------- |
| Alice   | 13.450      | 8.650   | 4.800   | **1st** |
| Bob     | 13.450      | 8.450   | 5.000   | 2nd     |

Alice wins because her execution score (8.650) is higher than Bob's (8.450), even though Bob had a harder routine.

## For all-around context

When used as the **all-around tiebreaker**, the system compares the all-around execution total and all-around difficulty total (the sums across all apparatus).

## When to use

* **Most standard competitions**. This is the default and most widely used tiebreaker in artistic gymnastics.
* When your governing body prioritizes execution quality over difficulty.
* Suitable for all levels from developmental through elite.

## Related

* [Compare D then E](/tiebreakers/compare-d-then-e.md) - The reverse order
* [How do tiebreakers work?](/tiebreakers/index.md)
* [How to configure individual score settings](/levels/individual-score-settings.md)


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