Under formats that use one, a tie-break decides a set after the players reach the required level score, commonly 6-6. A standard tie-break is usually played to seven points and must be won by two. The shorter format concentrates pressure and introduces mini-breaks, where a player wins a point against serve.

A tie-break compresses a large share of the set's pressure into a short sequence. Strong servers and players who handle important points well often benefit. Tie-break analysis is particularly relevant in close matches between players who regularly hold serve.

At 6-6 in a set using a standard tie-break, the players contest a deciding game. The first to at least seven points with a two-point lead wins the tie-break and the set.