Golf Handicap Index Calculator
Calculate your score differential and track your handicap index based on your recent rounds.
Results
Score Differential for this round: 0.0
To calculate a full Handicap Index, you need to input multiple rounds. The formula uses the average of your best differentials.
Your Recorded Rounds
| Round # | Score | Rating/Slope | Differential |
|---|
Calculated Handicap Index: —
*Based on USGA-style averaging of the best differentials in your list.
Understanding the Golf Handicap System
A golf handicap is a numerical measure of a golfer's potential ability. In the World Handicap System (WHS), it allows players of varying skill levels to compete on an equal basis. Unlike your average score, the handicap index represents the score you are capable of achieving on a "good day."
The Formula: How it Works
The core of the handicap system is the Score Differential. This calculation adjusts your raw score based on the difficulty of the course you played. The formula is:
Differential = (Adjusted Gross Score – Course Rating) x 113 / Slope Rating
- Adjusted Gross Score: Your total strokes after applying the Net Double Bogey limit.
- Course Rating: The score a scratch golfer (0 handicap) would expect to shoot on that course.
- Slope Rating: A measure of the relative difficulty for a bogey golfer compared to a scratch golfer (the standard slope is 113).
Example Calculation
Imagine you shot a score of 88 on a course with a Course Rating of 70.2 and a Slope Rating of 130.
Differential = (88 – 70.2) x 113 / 130
Differential = (17.8) x 113 / 130
Differential = 2011.4 / 130 = 15.47 (Rounded to 15.5)
How the Index is Calculated
To get a Handicap Index, the system typically takes the average of your best 8 score differentials from your most recent 20 rounds. If you have fewer than 20 rounds, the system uses a specific scale (e.g., if you have 5 rounds, it uses the lowest 1 differential; if you have 10 rounds, it uses the average of the lowest 3).
Tips for Accurate Tracking
1. Always use your Adjusted Gross Score. You cannot take more than a Net Double Bogey on any hole for handicap purposes.
2. Ensure you have the correct Course Rating and Slope for the specific set of tees you played (Men's, Women's, White, Blue, etc.), as these change based on distance.
3. Post your scores immediately after the round to keep your Index current under the daily revision system.