Scoring in Golf, for Dummies

 A Good Golf Score...

In golf, scoring is relatively simple: each stroke you take to get the ball in the hole counts as one, and your total score is the number of strokes for the entire round. For example, if you take 100 strokes over 18 holes, your score for the round is 100. However, golf scoring also involves the concept of "par," which is the number of strokes an expert is expected to take on a hole. A score below par (e.g., -1) is good, while a score above par (e.g., +3) is worse.

"Par" varies depending on the hole’s length. Holes up to 240 meters for men or 200 meters for women are typically par 3, those up to 450 meters for men or 380 meters for women are par 4, and holes over that range are par 5. Each course has its own total par score, which is the sum of the par values for all holes.

In addition to par, golfers use terms to describe scores above or below par:

• Birdie: One stroke under par (e.g., 3 on a par 4).
• Eagle: Two strokes under par (e.g., 3 on a par 5).
• Albatross: Three strokes under par, a rare achievement.
• Bogey: One stroke over par.
• Double Bogey/Triple Bogey: Two or three strokes over par, respectively.
• Ace: A hole-in-one, usually on a par 3.

For beginners, focusing on par might be frustrating. Instead, it’s helpful to think of each hole individually, setting a realistic goal for each based on your skill level. For example, a double bogey might be an acceptable "win" on a difficult hole. This approach helps keep the game fun and prevents overemphasizing the overall score.

Golf coaches recommend simplifying your approach to each hole by aiming for general areas rather than perfect shots. By focusing on setting up easier next shots and playing to your strengths, you can improve your game and have more fun without getting overly concerned with the final score.