Page type: Glossary / definition
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Meaning
Gross Score is the total number of strokes a player takes for a hole or round, including penalty strokes. It is the unadjusted score before handicap strokes are applied; a Net Score subtracts applicable handicap strokes from that gross total.
How it matters in match play
In individual match play, Gross Score is used when the competition is played without handicap strokes: the lower total of strokes, including penalties, wins the hole. In a handicap match, players compare Net Scores after the allocated Handicap Strokes are applied. Players must give the correct number of strokes taken when asked.
Table
| Quick reference | Detail |
|---|---|
| Term | Gross Score |
| Category | scoring |
| Applicable rule | Rules of Golf Rule 3.1c(1); Rule 3.2a(1); Rule 3.2d(1) |
| Related concepts | Net Score, Handicap Stroke, Hole Score, Round Score, Scorecard |
Worked example
Illustratively, Alex takes four strokes and one penalty stroke on a hole, so the hole's Gross Score is 5; if Alex's 18-hole scores total 86 including penalties, 86 is the round's Gross Score before any handicap adjustment.
Rule reference: Rules of Golf Rule 3.1c(1); Rule 3.2a(1); Rule 3.2d(1)
Sources: www.randa.org , www.usga.org
Common questions
Does Gross Score include penalty strokes?
Yes. Gross Score includes the strokes made and any penalty strokes taken for the hole or round.
What is the difference between Gross Score and Net Score?
Gross Score is the strokes taken, including penalties. Net Score is that gross total after applicable handicap strokes have been subtracted.
Is Gross Score used in match play?
Yes. In a scratch match, players compare gross hole scores. In a handicap match, the lower net score wins the hole after handicap strokes are applied.
Where is Gross Score recorded?
In stroke play, the marker enters each hole's gross score on the scorecard. In match play, players should accurately communicate the number of strokes taken when required.
Is Gross Score the same as Adjusted Gross Score?
No. Adjusted Gross Score is a handicap-posting figure created by applying the relevant handicap procedures to a player's gross score. It is not simply the unadjusted strokes taken.
Does Gross Score use handicap strokes?
No. Gross Score is before handicap strokes are applied. Handicap strokes are used to calculate a Net Score in a handicap competition.