Golf Scoring System Explained

Date Published: 23/12/2024

If you’re new to golf, you might wonder how the golf scoring system works. In this guide, we’ll explain everything you need to know, from handicaps to match play, so you can approach the game with confidence and strategy.

How does the golf scoring system work?

Before diving into scoring methods, it’s important to understand how the golf handicapping system works.

Golf scoring handicap system 

A handicap is a measure of a golfer’s skill level and allows players of varying abilities to compete on a fair playing field.

Your handicap is calculated using your best eight scores out of your last 20 rounds. It adjusts over time based on your most recent performances, ensuring it accurately reflects your current skill level. This makes it possible for golfers of different abilities to compete fairly.

While calculating a handicap can seem complex, tools like the iGolf make it simple. You don’t need to be a club member to track your handicap using iGolf.

Scoring stroke play 

Stroke play is the most common scoring format in golf and is straightforward to understand. Each golfer counts how many strokes it takes to complete each hole. This number is recorded on the scorecard, and the total score for 18 holes determines the player’s final result.

Some variations, such as scrambles or club championships, use either gross scoring or net scoring:

• Gross Scoring: This doesn’t factor in handicaps and is often preferred by advanced players.
• Net Scoring: This system incorporates handicaps. For example, if your gross score is 70 and your handicap is 10, your net score is 60.

Match play scoring 

Match play focuses on head-to-head competition between two players or two teams. Instead of counting total strokes, players compete to win individual holes.

Example:

• If your team scores a 4 on a hole and the opposing team scores an 8, you win the hole and go “1-up.”
• At the end of the round, the player or team with the most holes won is declared the winner.

Match play is a popular format for tournaments like the Ryder Cup and Presidents Cup, adding a strategic element to the game.

Mulligan scoring 

A “mulligan” refers to redoing a shot without penalty, typically after a poor first attempt. For example, if your first tee shot is bad, another player may offer you a “mulligan,” letting you retake the shot and choose the better outcome.

Important Note:
Mulligans are not allowed in official competitions but can be a fun and forgiving rule in casual rounds with friends.

Key Golf Rules to Remember

To score properly in golf, understanding the rules is crucial. Here are some of the most common scenarios:

• Penalty Areas: If your ball lands in a penalty area (e.g., a lake), you incur a one-stroke penalty. You must drop the ball behind or laterally from the penalty area.
• Out of Bounds (OB): When a ball is hit out of bounds (marked by white stakes or fencing), a two-stroke penalty is applied. You must re-tee and hit your third shot.
• Lost Ball: If you cannot locate your ball after three minutes of searching, you must replay your last shot. This results in a two-stroke penalty, often referred to as “stroke and distance.”
• Unplayable Lies: If your ball lands in an unplayable spot (e.g., a bush or near a tree trunk), you may drop the ball elsewhere (not closer to the hole) with a one-stroke penalty.

Entering scores

Usually one person records the score on the scorecards throughout the round for everyone. In golf tournaments the marker (the person scoring) will need to sign to confirm the scores along with the players. 

Scores can also be entered into apps like iGolf to easily keep track of scores. Using the MyEG app to record scores will also calculate your Handicap Index®  for future games. So what are you waiting for? Start your golfing journey today and join iGolf today.