Golf rules and scoring, explained simply
In stroke play your score is the total strokes plus penalty strokes, and the lowest total wins; in match play you win holes. A Handicap Index under the World Handicap System averages your best 8 of your last 20 Score Differentials. Our guides cite the official Rules of Golf and Rules of Handicapping.
The Rules of Golf are written jointly by the USGA and The R&A, and the World Handicap System that produces your Handicap Index is run by the same two bodies. The full rule books are long, but beginners only need a few concepts to play confidently: how strokes and penalties add up, what par, birdie and bogey mean, how match play differs from stroke play, what to do when a ball goes out of bounds or might be lost, and how a handicap lets players of different abilities compete fairly. This hub explains each of these in plain language and links to the official rule or handicapping section so you can check the wording yourself. Our handicap guide includes a free calculator that applies the official Score Differential and Course Handicap formulas. Etiquette and pace of play, which are as important as the written rules on a busy public course, are covered here too.
All rules & scoring guides
How does golf scoring work? A simple guide for beginners
Golf scoring explained for beginners: counting strokes and penalties, par, stroke play vs match play, net scores and how to fill in a scorecard.
What are birdie, eagle, bogey and par in golf?
Golf scoring terms explained: par, birdie, eagle, albatross, bogey, double bogey and hole-in-one, with a quick chart for every par.
What is the difference between match play and stroke play?
Match play vs stroke play explained: how each format is scored, conceded putts, order of play and which format suits casual rounds.
What happens when you hit a golf ball out of bounds? (and what is a provisional ball)
What happens when you hit a golf ball out of bounds or lose it: stroke-and-distance penalty, how to play a provisional ball and the Local Rule option.
Golf etiquette for beginners: rules everyone should know
Golf etiquette for beginners: pace of play, safety, honor and ready golf, caring for the course, green etiquette and dress code basics.
How long does 18 holes of golf take?
How long 18 holes of golf takes for a foursome, solo players and walkers vs carts, plus 9-hole times and tips to play faster.
What is a golf handicap and how is it calculated?
Golf handicap explained with the World Handicap System formulas: Score Differential, Handicap Index (best 8 of 20), Course Handicap and a free calculator.
Frequently asked questions
Who writes the Rules of Golf?
The USGA and The R&A publish a single, joint set of Rules of Golf and Rules of Handicapping used worldwide.
Do I need a handicap to play golf?
No. You only need a Handicap Index for handicap competitions or to post scores; casual rounds don't require one.
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