🏀 Effective Field Goal Percentage Calculator
Evaluate shooting efficiency by weighting three-pointers as 1.5 field goals made.
How to Use This Calculator
Track Shooting Stats
Record field goals made/attempted and three-pointers made from the box score.
Enter the Totals
Use game, season, or even practice numbers—just stay consistent.
Calculate eFG%
Press the button to compute effective field goal percentage.
Interpret the Result
Compare to benchmarks (50%+ is strong for most competitive levels).
Formula
eFG% = (FGM + 0.5 × 3PM) ÷ FGA
Effective field goal percentage captures the idea that three-pointers are worth one extra point. Each made three is treated as 1.5 field goals made, providing a truer view of shooting efficiency than raw field goal percentage.
Variables
- FGM: Total field goals made (2s + 3s)
- 3PM: Three-pointers made
- FGA: Total field goal attempts
Example
Player shoots 9/18 with four made threes. eFG% = (9 + 0.5×4) ÷ 18 = (9 + 2) ÷ 18 = 11 ÷ 18 = 0.611 or 61.1%.
Understanding eFG%
eFG% is a staple for modern basketball analytics. It discourages long two-point jumpers and rewards shots at the rim or beyond the arc, aligning closely with points-per-shot value.
Benchmark Guide
- > 60%: Elite shooter/finisher
- 55 – 60%: Excellent efficiency
- 50 – 55%: Solid contributor
- 45 – 50%: Needs shot selection tuning
Coaching Tips
- Encourage catch-and-shoot threes and layups/offensive rebounds for high-value attempts.
- Review shot charts to identify low-efficiency zones to avoid.
- Track eFG% by play type (spot-up, pick-and-roll) to tailor training.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is eFG% different from FG%?
FG% treats all makes equally, while eFG% gives extra credit to three-pointers. A player who shoots many threes can have average FG% but strong eFG%.
Does eFG% include free throws?
No. Free throws are excluded because they are not field goal attempts. To include free throws, use true shooting percentage (TS%).
Can I use eFG% for team stats?
Absolutely. Sum team FGM, 3PM, and FGA to evaluate team shooting efficiency for a game or season.
Is eFG% useful in youth basketball?
Yes. Even if three-pointers are rare, tracking eFG% teaches players the value of high-percentage shots and helps coaches spot inefficient attempts.
How do I improve eFG%?
Focus on shot selection, spacing, and assisted opportunities. Work on both finishing at the rim and knock-down perimeter shooting.