A golf scorecard can look confusing at first: rows of numbers, columns for different tees, stroke indexes and boxes for signatures. In a casual round, you can simply write down your scores. But in a competition, the scorecard is an official document, and mistakes can lead to penalties or disqualification. Here is how to read a scorecard, fill it in correctly and avoid the common errors.
Reading the scorecard
| Section | What it shows |
|---|---|
| Hole | Hole numbers, 1 to 18 |
| Yardage (or metres) | The length of each hole from each set of tees, often by colour |
| Par | The expected score for a skilled golfer on each hole |
| Stroke index (or handicap) | The order of difficulty for allocating handicap strokes, 1 being the hardest |
| Player and marker columns | Where scores are written |
| Out, In and Total | Front nine, back nine and 18-hole totals |
| Gross, handicap and net | Total strokes, handicap allowance and the net score |
| Signature boxes | For the player and the marker |
| Local rules | Usually on the back of the card |
Read how golf scoring works and which tees should I play?.
Stroke index and handicap strokes
The stroke index tells you where you receive handicap strokes. If your playing handicap is 12, you receive one stroke on each hole with a stroke index of 1 to 12. If it is 22, you receive one stroke on every hole plus a second stroke on stroke index 1 to 4. Many golfers mark a dot on the card for each stroke received. Read the World Handicap System explained.
Before the round
- Write your name, the date and the competition on the card.
- Enter your handicap if the competition asks for it.
- Swap cards with your marker: usually, you keep the score of another player in your group, and they keep yours.
- Mark your handicap strokes on the card if helpful.
During the round
- Your marker records your score for each hole, and you record theirs.
- Agree each score at the end of the hole, ideally on the next tee to keep play moving. Read pace of play.
- Write gross scores: the actual number of strokes, including penalties.
- Keep your own record as well, to check later.
Stroke play (medal)
Record your gross score on every hole. You must hole out on every hole.
Stableford
Record your gross score on each hole. If you can't score a point on a hole, you can pick up and leave the score blank or mark it as picked up. The committee or the scoring system usually calculates the points. Read Stableford strategy.
Maximum score
Record your score; if you reach the maximum, pick up and record the maximum.
Fourball and team formats
Record the score of each partner on each hole as instructed. Make sure it is clear whose score counts.
After the round
- Check every hole score carefully with your marker. Resolve any doubts with the committee before returning the card.
- Sign the card to certify your hole scores.
- Make sure your marker signs to certify they recorded your scores.
- Return the card promptly to the committee, or submit it through the electronic scoring system.
You don't need to add up the totals or calculate the net score; the committee is responsible for that, although many golfers do.
Penalties for scorecard errors
| Error | Result |
|---|---|
| Score on a hole lower than actually taken | Disqualification |
| Score on a hole higher than actually taken | The higher score stands |
| Card not signed by the player or the marker | Disqualification (stroke play) |
| Forgetting a penalty you didn't know about | Penalty added, plus a further two-stroke penalty, in most cases |
| Wrong addition or handicap on the card | No penalty for the player; the committee corrects it |
Under the rules, if you return a lower score because you didn't include a penalty you didn't know about, you are not disqualified; the missing penalty is added along with an extra two-stroke penalty for that hole.
Electronic scoring
Many clubs use apps or terminals for scoring. The same principles apply: your marker enters or confirms your scores, you check them, and you both confirm before submitting. Read golf apps and online tools.
Scores for handicap purposes
In general play, scores are usually submitted through your handicap app or club system. Remember that your maximum score on any hole for handicap purposes is net double bogey.
Tips for markers
- Pay attention to the player's strokes, including penalty strokes.
- Ask if you're unsure of a score at the end of the hole.
- Write clearly.
- Don't sign until you have checked the card.
Frequently asked questions
Who fills in my scorecard in a competition?
Your marker, usually a playing partner, records your score. You record theirs, and you each check your own scores at the end.
Do I need to add up my scorecard?
Not in most competitions. You are responsible for the hole scores; the committee calculates totals and net scores.
What happens if I forget to sign my card?
In stroke play, you are usually disqualified. Always check before handing it in.
What should I write on a hole where I picked up in Stableford?
Leave it blank, or mark it as no score, as your committee directs.
The bottom line
Filling in a scorecard is simple once you know the parts: yardages, par, stroke index and the player and marker columns. Record gross scores, check every hole, sign the card, make sure your marker signs and return it promptly. Get it right and you can enjoy competition golf without worry. For more on competitions, read your first golf competition.