Before you play, know whether you are counting every stroke, winning holes, or combining efforts as a team.
Scramble
Everyone hits. The team chooses a shot, and players hit again from that selected location under the event’s placement rules. Repeat until the hole is finished. One useful putt or approach can help your team, even if you are new.
Best ball and four-ball
Players play their own balls. The best partner score on a hole becomes the team score. In standard four-ball, two partners form a side. Some events use larger best-ball teams. It is different from a scramble, where the team repeatedly selects one location.
Stroke play
In regular stroke play, total all strokes and penalties. A short putt still needs to be holed. Stableford and Maximum Score use modified scoring, so check the format.
Match play
Win more holes than your opponent. A concession is allowed, but only when your opponent gives it. Do not assume a close putt is conceded. Handicaps and play order may affect the match.