The golf handicap system allows golfers of all abilities to compete together in a competitive match. A golf handicap is a measure of your potential as a golfer, not your average performance, which is a common misconception. Playing with the handicap system under the U.S. Golf Association Rules of Golf allows for equitable competition among varying ability levels.
Handicaps Explained
The USGA's official handicap formula selects only the 10 best scores out of 20 rounds posted. It then takes the scores and subtracts the course rating to obtain the stroke index for each individual round. It then takes the sum of those numbers and multiplies by 0.9. Finally, the official handicap system drops all digits after the tenths place so your handicap reads like an even decimal. Numbers like 3.6, 2.4, 11.8 and 22.6 all represent common USGA Handicaps.
Process Indepth
Golf associations have constructed this process to provide a opportunity to measure true scoring potential. If handicaps were calculated on averages, the system would use all 20 rounds posted instead of just the lowest 10, and would not multiply each total stroke differential by 0.9. The rounds posted are revolving. Once a new round is posted after 20, the oldest round is dropped. This provides a reflection of the golfer's recent performance.
Tournament Adjustment
Golf handicaps are adjusted for exceptional performances in tournaments. If golfers struggle with recreational play but are capable tournament players, their index is revised based on the lower tournament rounds. For this to occur, golfers must post at least two tournament scores with a stroke differential at least three strokes lower than their handicap index. This triggers an internal adjustment in the handicap system and will result in the appropriate number of strokes taken off your handicap.
Stroke Index
The stroke index is a measure of the golfer's performance on that particular day. The USGA and its member state associations rate each course on the basis of scratch golfer performance. The course rating represents how a scratch golfer would perform on an average day. Your stroke index is your score minus the course rating, which would indicate your performance in relation to par and to a better player. These numbers are used in the calculation of the handicap index.
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