Frequently asked questions
What's a 'score differential'?
A single round's performance adjusted for course difficulty: (Score − Course Rating) × 113 ÷ Slope Rating. It puts every round on the same scale regardless of which course or tees were played, which is what makes a portable handicap possible.
Why isn't every round used in the final number?
The Handicap Index only averages your best differentials (not all of them) — once you have 20 rounds, only the best 8 count. This reflects your demonstrated potential rather than your average performance on any given day.
Why multiply by 0.96?
It's a calibration factor built into the World Handicap System formula — without getting into the full technical history, it's part of how the system aligns a player's potential ability with their typical scoring.
This is an unofficial estimate for personal reference — an official USGA/WHS Handicap Index requires posting scores through an authorized golf club or association, and includes additional safeguards not modeled here.