How is a Golf Handicap Index computed?

You may look at a scorecard and see words like Course rating™ and Slope Rating and scratch your head. Those are factors that rate the relative difficulty of each course and which the USGA algorithm factors in the equation to calculate your handicap. 

When entering (also called “posting”) your score after a round, the system will also ask you to enter Course Rating™ and Slope Rating numbers, then voila, your handicap index begins to take shape. Keep playing and posting scores, because to get an accurate picture of your current playing ability, the USGA will continually update your handicap index. Confusing? Yes, but don’t worry, the USGA does all the math, you just enjoy your round and enter your score.

 When entering (also called “posting”) your score after a round, the system will also ask you to enter course rating and slope numbers, then voila, your handicap index begins to take shape. Keep playing and posting scores, because to get an accurate picture of your current playing ability, the USGA will continually update your handicap index. 

Here’s the best part, a handicap index is the reflection of your potential, not those bad rounds when your nasty slice shows up. This is because the USGA algorithm uses the best 10 rounds out of your last 20. 

What does that mean? Well, if you’re index says 8.5 you should potentially shoot an 80.5 on a par-72 golf course, depending on the golf course’s difficulty. 

See, you are a better golfer than you thought!

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