Handicap Index
Also known as: handicap, WHS index
A Handicap Index is the World Handicap System (WHS) measure of a golfer's demonstrated playing ability on a neutral course. A lower index means a better player.
The WHS Handicap Index is calculated from up to the best 8 of the most recent 20 scores, adjusted for the course rating and slope of each venue played. It allows players of very different abilities to compete fairly through net scoring. The index is portable — applied to any course via the slope rating conversion. A 0.0 handicap plays to "scratch" (scoring at the course rating); a +2.0 means the player typically scores two strokes better than the rating. The index is recalculated daily by an authorized golf association or app.
Example
A player who has submitted 20 rounds and whose best 8 produce an average of 72.4 adjusted stroke average holds a Handicap Index near 72.4 minus the course rating (e.g., 0.4 if the course rating is 72.0).
Related terms
- Strokes GainedStrokes gained measures how many strokes a player gains or loses relative to a benchmark (tour average or peer group) on each category of shots — off the tee, approach, around the green, and putting.
- Course ManagementCourse management is the decision-making strategy for where to aim, which club to use, and how to play each hole to minimize risk and score effectively relative to your skills.
Related guides & benchmarks
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