Golf Handicap

A handicap is calculated with a specific arithmetic formula that approximates how many strokes above or below par a player should be able to play.

A golfer's net score is determined by subtracting the player's handicap from the gross score (the number of strokes actually taken). The net scores of all the competing golfers are compared, and the person with the lowest score wins.

The golfer's handicap is intended to show a player's potential, not his average score, as is the common belief.