WHS Handicap Formula:
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The WHS (World Handicap System) golf handicap calculation determines a player's Handicap Index based on their best 8 score differentials from their most recent 20 rounds. It provides a standardized measure of a golfer's playing ability.
The calculator uses the WHS formula:
Where:
Explanation: The system takes the average of your best 8 score differentials and applies a 0.96 multiplier to encourage improvement and provide a slight buffer for exceptional rounds.
Details: The Handicap Index allows golfers of different skill levels to compete fairly against each other. It provides a consistent measure of playing ability that can be used worldwide under the unified WHS system.
Tips: Enter your best 8 score differentials from your most recent 20 rounds. Score differentials should be calculated based on course rating and slope rating. All 8 values are required for accurate calculation.
Q1: What is a score differential?
A: A score differential represents your adjusted score relative to the course difficulty, calculated as: (113 / Slope Rating) × (Adjusted Gross Score - Course Rating).
Q2: Why use the best 8 out of 20 rounds?
A: This system focuses on a player's potential ability rather than average performance, using the best rounds to represent what the player is capable of achieving.
Q3: What does the 0.96 multiplier do?
A: The "Bonus for Excellence" multiplier slightly reduces the handicap index, encouraging continued improvement and preventing handicaps from becoming too generous.
Q4: How often is the handicap index updated?
A: Handicap indexes are typically updated daily as new scores are posted, using the most recent 20 rounds in the calculation.
Q5: What's the difference between handicap index and course handicap?
A: Handicap index is your baseline ability measure. Course handicap is calculated from handicap index and specific course slope rating for competition play.