How is the score determined with a 4-panel judge system?

In a 4-panel judge system, the scoring method involves dropping the lowest two scores and averaging the remaining two highest scores. This system is designed to minimize the impact of any outlier scores that may not accurately reflect the gymnast's performance. By focusing on the two highest scores, judges aim to come to a more consensus-based evaluation of the routine's difficulty and execution.

This scoring approach is often used to ensure that individual biases or errors from judges do not disproportionately affect the final score. By excluding the lowest scores, the system seeks to present a fair and more representative evaluation of the gymnast's performance. This method highlights the importance of consensus in judging, while still allowing for a range of perspectives among the panel.