1. What is the Golf Handicap Index?

The Handicap Index is a measure of a golfer's potential ability under the World Handicap System (WHS). It represents the number of strokes a player receives to adjust their score to the level of a scratch golfer.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the WHS 2020 formula:

Where:

• \( HI \) — Handicap Index (unitless)
• \( SD \) — Score Differential (unitless)
• \( 0.96 \) — Bonus for Excellence multiplier

Explanation: The system uses the best 8 score differentials from the most recent 20 rounds, applies a 0.96 multiplier to reward consistent good performance.

3. World Handicap System (WHS) 2020

Details: The WHS unified various handicap systems worldwide. It calculates Handicap Index based on the best 8 of the last 20 score differentials, with different numbers used for fewer than 20 scores.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter at least 3 score differentials (up to 20). The calculator will automatically determine how many differentials to use based on WHS rules. Fewer scores require fewer differentials in the calculation.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: How many scores are needed for a valid Handicap Index?
A: Minimum 3 scores for a temporary index, but 20 scores are needed for a fully established index using the best 8 differentials.

Q2: What is the 0.96 multiplier for?
A: It's a "bonus for excellence" that slightly reduces the handicap index, encouraging improvement and preventing inflation of handicaps.

Q3: How often is the Handicap Index updated?
A: Under WHS, handicaps are updated daily as new scores are posted, providing a more current reflection of a player's ability.

Q4: What's the difference between Handicap Index and Course Handicap?
A: Handicap Index is portable, while Course Handicap is specific to each course and is calculated using the course rating and slope.

Q5: Can I have a negative Handicap Index?
A: Yes, plus handicaps (better than scratch) are possible and represented as negative numbers (e.g., -1.2).