A Handicap Index helps golfers of different abilities compete. It is not your average score or a grade on your worth.
Index, Course Handicap, Playing Handicap
Your Index travels with you. Course Handicap adjusts it for the course and tees. Playing Handicap then applies any allowance for the format. Use the golf shop, handicap app, or event instructions to get the right number.
Understand a net score
Gross score is what you shot, including penalties. In an individual net stroke-play example, a gross 100 minus a Playing Handicap of 24 is a net 76. Do not automatically subtract your raw Index.
Build a scoring record
In the U.S., an initial Index can be established after posting acceptable scores totaling 54 holes, using nine- and/or eighteen-hole rounds. With twenty scores recorded, the basic calculation uses the best eight Score Differentials, with other adjustments possible.
Post honestly
Follow the handicap rules for acceptable rounds, hole-score limits, and unfinished holes. Friendly mulligans and invented scores are not a shortcut to a useful Index.