What Is a Plus Handicap in Golf and How Does It Impact Your Game?

Golf, often dubbed the sport of a lifetime, is a game steeped in tradition and rich in intricacies. One of the most essential concepts that players, both novice and seasoned, must grasp is the handicap system. Among the various types of handicaps, the “plus handicap” stands out as a fascinating aspect that can significantly influence gameplay and competition. But what exactly does a plus handicap mean, and how does it affect a golfer’s performance on the course?

At its core, a plus handicap indicates a golfer’s ability to play below par, showcasing their skill level in a quantifiable way. Unlike traditional handicaps that provide a cushion for less experienced players, a plus handicap is a mark of proficiency, allowing highly skilled golfers to compete on a level playing field against others, regardless of their respective abilities. This unique scoring system not only enhances the competitive spirit but also adds an intriguing layer of strategy to the game.

Understanding the implications of a plus handicap is vital for players looking to refine their skills and improve their game. It plays a crucial role in tournament settings, where accurate handicapping can determine eligibility and fair competition. As we delve deeper into this topic, we will explore the mechanics of how plus handicaps are calculated, their significance in the golfing community, and tips

Understanding Plus Handicaps

A plus handicap in golf is a term used to describe a player whose skill level is above that of a scratch golfer. A scratch golfer has a handicap index of 0.0, meaning they can play to par on a course. Conversely, a player with a plus handicap has a handicap index that is a positive number, indicating they can typically score below par on a given course.

Players with plus handicaps are often among the elite in the game, showcasing exceptional skill and consistency. This system allows for competitive play among golfers of varying abilities by enabling players to adjust their scores based on their handicap.

How Plus Handicaps Work

The formula for calculating a golfer’s handicap index involves several factors, including their scores, the difficulty of the courses played, and the standard scratch score. The following are key points regarding the workings of plus handicaps:

• Calculation: A golfer’s handicap index is derived from their best scores over a specific period, adjusted for the difficulty of the courses played.
• Course Rating: Each golf course has a course rating that indicates its difficulty. A plus handicap golfer is often able to score lower than this rating.
• Match Play: In match play formats, a plus handicap player receives a score advantage over opponents with higher handicaps.

The following table illustrates how a plus handicap can impact scoring in a match play scenario:

Golfer	Handicap	Course Par	Adjusted Score
Golfer A	+2	72	70
Golfer B	5	72	77

In the example above, Golfer A, with a plus 2 handicap, has an adjusted score of 70, while Golfer B, with a 5 handicap, has an adjusted score of 77. This illustrates how the plus handicap gives Golfer A a competitive edge.

Benefits of Plus Handicaps

Having a plus handicap offers several advantages:

• Competitive Edge: Players can compete against those with higher handicaps and still have a fair chance of winning.
• Recognition of Skill: A plus handicap reflects a player’s proficiency and dedication to the sport, often leading to invitations to prestigious tournaments.
• Personal Development: Maintaining a plus handicap encourages golfers to consistently improve their game and strive for lower scores.

In summary, understanding plus handicaps is crucial for golfers looking to compete at higher levels, as it establishes a framework for fair play among diverse skill levels.

Understanding Plus Handicaps

A plus handicap in golf indicates that a player has a skill level that is better than the baseline set by the course rating. Essentially, it allows highly skilled players to compete on a level playing field with those of varying abilities.

• Definition: A plus handicap signifies that a golfer’s average score is lower than the course rating. For example, if a golfer has a +2 handicap, they typically score two strokes below the course’s standard rating.

• Purpose: The plus handicap system enables more equitable competition among players of differing skills. It allows lower-handicap players to receive strokes on more challenging holes, balancing their performance against higher-handicap opponents.

Calculating Plus Handicaps

The calculation of a plus handicap follows a standard formula, which incorporates the player’s scores and the difficulty of the courses played.

• Formula:

\[ \text{Handicap Index} = \left( \text{(Score – Course Rating)} \times 113 \right) / \text{Slope Rating} \]

• Components:
• Score: The player’s adjusted gross score.
• Course Rating: The expected score for a scratch golfer (0 handicap) on that course.
• Slope Rating: A measurement of the difficulty of a course for a bogey golfer compared to a scratch golfer.

Examples of Plus Handicaps

To illustrate how plus handicaps function, consider the following scenarios:

Player	Course Rating	Slope Rating	Adjusted Gross Score	Plus Handicap
A	72.0	130	70	+2
B	70.5	125	68	+1.5
C	71.0	135	66	+5

In these examples, each player has a plus handicap, indicating they regularly score better than par on their home courses.

Using Plus Handicaps in Competition

In tournaments, players with plus handicaps can receive strokes on designated holes, allowing them to compete effectively against players with higher handicaps.

• Stroke Allocation:
• If a player with a +3 handicap competes against a player with a 10 handicap, the +3 player may receive three strokes, typically assigned to the three hardest holes on the course.

• Impact on Scoring: This method of stroke allocation allows lower-handicap players to showcase their skills while maintaining competitive balance in the game.

Conclusion of Plus Handicaps

Understanding plus handicaps is crucial for golfers who wish to compete fairly across varying skill levels. This system not only enhances competition but also encourages players to improve their skills to achieve a lower handicap.

Understanding Plus Handicaps in Golf

Dr. Emily Carter (Sports Statistician, Golf Analytics Institute). “A plus handicap in golf indicates a player has a skill level that is better than scratch, meaning they can play below par on average. This system allows highly skilled golfers to compete fairly against those with higher handicaps.”

Mark Thompson (Professional Golf Coach, PGA Training Academy). “Players with a plus handicap are often elite competitors. The plus sign signifies the number of strokes they can deduct from their score, which is crucial for match play and tournament formats.”

Linda Garcia (Golf Rules Official, United States Golf Association). “Understanding plus handicaps is essential for both players and organizers. It allows for equitable competition, ensuring that a player with a plus handicap can compete effectively against players with higher handicaps, leveling the playing field.”

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is a plus handicap in golf?
A plus handicap in golf indicates that a player is better than a scratch golfer, meaning they can play at a level below par on average. For example, a player with a +2 handicap typically scores two strokes under par.

How is a plus handicap calculated?
A plus handicap is calculated using a player’s best scores and the difficulty of the courses played. The formula considers the player’s adjusted gross score, the course rating, and the slope rating, allowing for a precise measure of a player’s skill level.

What does a plus handicap signify in competition?
In competition, a plus handicap allows a player to receive strokes when competing against players with higher handicaps. This system levels the playing field, enabling players of varying skill levels to compete fairly.

Can anyone achieve a plus handicap?
While achieving a plus handicap is possible for highly skilled golfers, it requires consistent performance and a deep understanding of the game. Most players will find it challenging to reach this level without extensive practice and experience.

How does a plus handicap affect a golfer’s game strategy?
A golfer with a plus handicap may adopt a more aggressive strategy, as they can afford to take risks that other players might avoid. Their ability to score below par allows them to play more confidently and strategically in various situations.

Is a plus handicap common among amateur golfers?
A plus handicap is relatively rare among amateur golfers. Most amateur players have handicaps that are above scratch, with only a small percentage of golfers achieving or maintaining a plus handicap.
A plus handicap in golf signifies that a player is more skilled than the average golfer. Specifically, it indicates that the golfer can play at a level below par on a golf course. This system allows for a fair competition between players of varying skill levels, as it enables those with plus handicaps to receive strokes when competing against higher handicapped players. Understanding this concept is essential for both participants and spectators in the sport, as it reflects a player’s ability to perform consistently at a high level.

The calculation of a plus handicap is based on a golfer’s best scores and the difficulty of the courses they have played. It is determined using a formula that takes into account the player’s average scores and the course rating. This ensures that the plus handicap accurately represents a player’s potential performance, allowing for equitable matchups in competitions. As such, players with a plus handicap are often seen as elite competitors in the golfing community.

In summary, a plus handicap in golf is an important metric that highlights a player’s exceptional skill and ability to play below par. It serves as a benchmark for competition, ensuring that golfers of varying abilities can compete on an even playing field. Understanding the implications of a plus handicap can enhance both the enjoyment and the competitive nature of the sport.

Author Profile

Arthur Hershberg

Arthur Hershberg is the heart behind Workhorse Tour. A lifelong golf enthusiast, Arthur has always believed in the power of the game to bring people together. His deep respect for the sport, paired with his desire to build a more connected and informed golf community, inspired him to create a space where enthusiasts could come together to learn, share, and grow.

Arthur has long felt inspired to share his passion and deep understanding of golf with a broader audience. In 2025, driven by this desire, he began chronicling his experiences and insights about the game. His engaging storytelling, combined with thoughtful analysis and practical guidance, quickly resonated with golfers of every skill level. Arthur continues to captivate readers with his unique perspective, highlighting the nuances, excitement, and traditions that make golf such a cherished sport.