Page type: Glossary / definition
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Meaning
Under the World Handicap System, a scoring record is the player's chronological record of acceptable scores and the related Score Differentials used to calculate a Handicap Index. It can include 9-hole and 18-hole entries, with adjustments and identifying details required by the Rules of Handicapping.
How it matters in match play
A scoring record is not a match-play result sheet and it does not decide who wins a hole or match. However, an acceptable match-play score may contribute to a player's handicap record where the format and jurisdiction permit it; the resulting Handicap Index is then used to calculate Playing Handicaps for a later match.
Table
| Quick reference | Detail |
|---|---|
| Term | Scoring Record |
| Category | handicap |
| Applicable rule | Rules of Handicapping Rule 2.1, Rule 4.1, Rule 5.2 |
| Related concepts | Score Differential, Handicap Index, Acceptable Score, Score Submission, Low Handicap Index |
Worked example
Illustrative example: Alex has 20 Score Differentials in the scoring record, and the eight lowest total 64.0, so the unadjusted average is 8.0 before any applicable safeguards; Ben's match result is not changed by Alex's scoring record.
Rule reference: Rules of Handicapping Rule 2.1, Rule 4.1, Rule 5.2
Sources: www.randa.org , www.randa.org , www.randa.org , www.usga.org
Common questions
What is kept in a scoring record?
It keeps acceptable scores in chronological order and records information used to calculate Score Differentials. Rule 4.1 lists hole-by-hole scores as strongly recommended, or an adjusted gross score or Stableford points, together with the round date, Course Rating and Slope Rating and, where applicable, par and each hole's Stroke Index.
How many scores are used from a scoring record?
With fewer than 20 Score Differentials, the Rules of Handicapping use the applicable table for the number available. With at least 20, the Handicap Index starts with the average of the lowest eight Score Differentials from the most recent 20, then applicable safeguards or adjustments are considered.
Does every round go into a scoring record?
No. A score must satisfy the requirements for an acceptable score, including an authorised format, the minimum number of holes, another person present, the Rules of Golf, and a course with current Course Rating and Slope Rating during its active season. Jurisdictional selections can affect which formats are authorised.
Is a scoring record the same as a match score?
No. A match score records the result of a contest, while a scoring record is a handicap record. A match-play round can potentially be an acceptable handicap score, but only when the format and other Rule 2 requirements are met in the relevant jurisdiction.
Can a scoring record affect a player's handicap in a match?
Indirectly. The record helps produce the player's Handicap Index, which is converted into a Course Handicap and then a Playing Handicap. The competition's terms and the applicable handicap allowance determine how that Playing Handicap is used in the match.
How quickly should a score be submitted?
The Rules of Handicapping say a player should submit an acceptable score as soon as possible on the day of play, after completing the round and before local midnight. Late submission can affect when the Handicap Index updates and whether the score is included in the daily Playing Conditions Calculation.