What Does a Plus (+) Handicap Mean in Golf?

If you are aspiring to become a good golfer, it is important to know how the handicap system works, as it will help you challenge and compete against better players. As a beginner, it is not strange to wonder – “What does a + handicap mean in golf?”.

A “plus handicap” refers to the proficiency of a golfer who consistently shoots below par on the course. This is in contrast to a regular or “negative” handicap, which suggests a player will play above par. A plus handicap golfer is exceptional in their skill and consistency, often displaying exceptional shot-making abilities, precision in short games, and superior course management.

The Elite Plus Handicap Golfer

The plus handicap golfer is an elite group that consistently shoots below par. They possess exceptional skill, consistency, and mental strength. This rare combination of abilities sets them apart from other golfers.

The Golf Handicap System for Beginners

A golf handicap is a numerical representation of a player’s potential ability based on past performances. It is calculated using a specific formula that takes into account the most recent 20 scores and the difficulty of the courses played. The handicap index is the USGA-defined “portable handicap” that can be taken to any course. It is used to calculate the course handicap for a specific course.

How to Calculate Your Handicap Number

To calculate your handicap number, follow these steps:

1. Convert Gross Scores to Adjusted Gross Scores: Use the USGA’s Equitable Stroke Control (ESC) to downwardly adjust individual hole scores for handicapping purposes.
2. Calculate Handicap Differentials for Each Score: Use the formula: Handicap Differential = (Adjusted Gross Score – Course Rating) x 113 ÷ Slope Rating. Round the Handicap Differential to the nearest tenth.
3. Select the Best, or Lowest, Handicap Differentials: Select the lowest Handicap Differentials from the most recent 20 scores. If more than 20 scores have been entered, use the 10 best differentials.
4. Calculate the Average of the Lowest Handicap Differentials: Calculate the average of the lowest Handicap Differentials. If there are 10 Handicap Differentials available, calculate the average for the lowest 3 Handicap Differentials. If there are 15 Handicap Differentials available, calculate the average for the lowest 6 Handicap Differentials.
5. Multiply the Average of Handicap Differentials by 0.96 or 96%: Multiply the average Handicap Differential by 96% to arrive at the Handicap Index.
6. Calculate the Course Handicap: Multiply the Handicap Index by the Slope Rating of the course and round the result to the nearest whole number

Handicap Index	A handicap index is a number based on your previous games. This means that wherever you go to play golf, in order to calculate the handicap for that course, you will need your handicap index. The handicap index is calculated by calculating the average of your previous three games’ scores.
Slope Rating	Slope rating is the average number of shots taken by an amateur golfer for a particular course. It is measured between 55 and 155.
113	113 is the average slope rating.
Course Rating	Course rating is the average number of shots taken by a professional (or scratch) golfer.
Par	Par is the average shots needed to complete the entire course.

Why Is the Plus Handicap Important?

You might be thinking that having a plus handicap means that you are a bad player, but that is not the case. First of all, it is true that there are super talented and diligent golfers out there who finish most of the courses on par (they are called scratch golfers). However, it is natural that some people need more time to get better, so as a result, they will have a certain handicap number.

But the handicap number will help you a lot, especially when playing against more skilled people. What this means is that if for a certain hole you need three or four shots to hit, you will be permitted to do so without any penalties, even though your opponent, on average, requires only one or two shots to make. Of course, this doesn’t mean that you can get complacent as you can easily increase the handicap. The main aim is to reduce handicap each time you complete a course which automatically means that you are getting better as a golf player (remember, new golf clubs don’t make much difference, the technique and execution are what matters).

You Need to Have an Official Golf Membership in Order to Have a Valid Handicap Score

This means that you need to become a member of the United States Golf Association. The easiest way is to buy a membership at your local golf club where you are practicing. You will receive a unique GHIN (Golf Handicap Information Network) number, which you will use to access the official database and post your results, and view the competition.

Be Honest With Your Handicap Rating if You Want to Get Better

To maintain the integrity of the handicap system, it is essential to be honest about your scores. Golfers should not exaggerate or underreport their scores. The handicap system relies on accurate information to ensure fair competition and to track progress.

There are cases where people think – “I’m having a bad day, and this is not the real representation of my golfing skills. I’ll write that I’ve taken fewer shots.” However, this is not the right mindset if you want to get better. Nonetheless, there are some rules you need to follow:

• In order for your scores to be valid, you need to have at least one other player who acts as a witness and confirms the number of shots you have taken.
• Each match card at the end of the game has to be signed by all players who have participated.
• It is not unusual for a player to have a bad day. However, there is an official maximum of shots for each hole on a golf course. Therefore, if you exceed it, you, nonetheless, write the maximum for handicap. This helps maintain reasonable handicap numbers.

Finally, if you lie and insist on putting smaller handicap numbers than you are supposed to, that will immediately be noticed by other players, as lying won’t certainly improve your skills.

The Handicap System Helps New Players

The handicap system helps new players by providing a fair way to compete against more experienced golfers. It allows them to track their progress and set goals for improvement. The system also helps golfers of different skill levels compete fairly against each other.