How to Calculate Golf Handicap
What is Golf Handicap?
A golf handicap is a numerical measure of a golfer's ability that allows players of different skill levels to compete fairly. The World Handicap System (WHS) calculates it from the best 8 of the last 20 score differentials.
Step-by-Step Guide
- 1Score differential = (Adjusted gross score − Course rating) × 113 / Slope rating
- 2Handicap index = Average of best 8 of last 20 differentials × 0.96
- 3Course handicap = Handicap index × (Slope rating / 113) + (Course rating − Par)
Worked Examples
Input
Score 85 · Course rating 70.1 · Slope 125
Result
Differential = (85−70.1)×113/125 = 13.5
Repeat for 20 rounds; average best 8
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