The Top 10 Get Points
After every race, points are awarded to the top 10 finishers: 1st=25, 2nd=18, 3rd=15, 4th=12, 5th=10, 6th=8, 7th=6, 8th=4, 9th=2, 10th=1. There is also a bonus point for the driver who sets the fastest lap — but only if they finish in the top 10.
Drivers AND Constructors
There are two separate championships. The Drivers' Championship is won by the driver with the most points. The Constructors' Championship is won by the team — both drivers' points combined. A team can win the Constructors' title even if neither driver wins the Drivers' title.
The points gap matters more than wins. A driver who finishes 2nd consistently can beat a driver who wins some races but also DNFs. Consistency is everything.