What are the best Scrabble words for Double Word Score squares?

High base-value words maximize DWS: JINX (18×2=36), QUIZ (22×2=44), QUARTZ (24×2=48), FJORD (12×2=24). The key is total word value — DWS doubles everything, so pack as many points into the word as possible.

How do Double Word Score squares work in Scrabble?

DWS multiplies the entire word's score by 2. First calculate all tile values (including any letter multipliers), then double the total. A 15-point word on DWS becomes 30 points. DWS only applies when you first cover the square — it's deactivated for future plays on that spot.

How many Double Word Score squares are on a Scrabble board?

There are 17 DWS squares (pink/rose) on a standard board, plus 8 TWS squares (red). The center star counts as a DWS for the opening move. DWS squares form diagonal lines radiating from the corners toward the center.

Best Scrabble Words for Double Word Squares — DWS Strategy

June 22, 2026 6 min read Word Finder

Double Word Score squares multiply your entire word by 2 — not just one tile, but everything. This makes them fundamentally different from TLS (which only triples one letter). The strategy shifts: instead of positioning one high-value tile, you want maximum total word value crossing the DWS. A 20-point word on DWS = 40 points. Load your word with as many high-value tiles as possible.

DWS squares

×2

Word multiplier

48 pts

QUARTZ on DWS

44 pts

QUIZ on DWS

Top Words for DWS by Doubled Score

These words deliver maximum value when one of their tiles lands on a DWS square. Sorted by doubled total score.

Word	Base	On DWS	Length
QUARTZ	24	48	6
QUIZ	22	44	4
JINX	18	36	4
JAZZY	33	66	5
FOXED	16	32	5
QUIRKY	22	44	6
FJORD	16	32	5
KAYAK	16	32	5
PROXY	17	34	5
WALTZ	17	34	5

DWS vs TLS — When to Choose Which

💡 Key Insight

TLS is better for one expensive tile (Z on TLS = +20 bonus). DWS is better for expensive words (QUARTZ on DWS = +24 bonus). Rule of thumb: if your word scores 12+ points, DWS gives more bonus than TLS on any single tile. Below 12 points, TLS on your best tile wins.

✓ Use DWS When

Word scores 12+ base points. Multiple high-value tiles. Longer words (5-7 letters). Total word value matters more than any single tile.

→ Use TLS When

Short word (2-3 letters) with one power tile. Z, Q, X, or J is your only high scorer. Word total is under 12 points. Precise tile positioning possible.

Strategy Tips for DWS Plays

Stack high-value tiles: DWS doubles EVERYTHING. QUARTZ (Q=10, Z=10) on DWS = 48 points. The more expensive tiles in your word, the bigger the DWS payoff compared to TLS.

First move advantage: The center star is a DWS. Your opening word is automatically doubled. Start with the highest-scoring word you can form — JINX (36), QUIZ (44), or QUARTZ (48) as openers are devastating.

TLS + DWS combo: If a word crosses both a TLS and DWS, apply the TLS first (tripling one letter), then double the entire word. Z on TLS within a DWS word = Z scores 30, then the whole word doubles. This is how 80+ point plays happen.

Don't expose DWS for free: If your word ends one square before a DWS, your opponent can extend it (adding one letter) and claim the DWS bonus on their word. Block DWS lanes or use them yourself.

📚 Dig Deeper

→ Best Words for Triple Letter Squares — single-tile multiplier strategy → Best Words for Premium Squares — complete premium guide

🔤 Try our free Scrabble Word Finder — instant results, no signup

Open Word Finder →

← Back to all articles