Read a scorecard without the confusion.

A scorecard shows the holes, distances, and scores. Start with the row for the tees you are playing.

Find the essentials

Each hole has a number, a yardage, and a par. Par is the reference score for the hole. On a par 4, a 3 is a birdie, a 4 is par, a 5 is a bogey, and a 6 is a double bogey.

Record your strokes

In regular stroke play, count your strokes and penalties for the hole. Write the score before the next hole while your memory is fresh, without blocking play. Add the front nine and back nine, then combine them.

Understand the stroke index

The stroke-index row tells you where handicap strokes are allocated. It is not a simple ranking of which holes you personally will find hardest. Ask the event organizer how strokes apply to your format.

Keep the score in perspective

You can have a learning round without keeping score. When you record a score for competition or handicap purposes, follow the rules for that purpose. Do not turn a friendly do-over into an official score.