Explanation of a Golf Handicap

The U.S. handicap system started in 1912, with the handicap established at the golfer's home course. In 1987, the USGA replaced the one-handicap system with the Handicap Index.

The Handicap Index, determined by a complicated formula, is the number issued by your golf club representing your potential scoring ability. That number is then converted to a course handicap.

Courses have handicap tables for each set of tees. Find the table for tees you will be playing and locate your index in the table. Your handicap will be printed next to the index.

In a stroke-play event, your handicap is subtracted at the end of the round. In match play, your handicap is allocated hole by hole.

To establish an accurate handicap, you should post all scores, good and bad. The lowest 10 of your last 20 scores are used to calculate your index.