How to Adjust a Golf Handicap

A golf handicap is a way to keep track of your progress, play against more or less experienced players and keep things competitive, and it is required for many tournaments. Once you have established your handicap for the first time, it is important to adjust it regularly so it accurately reflects your potential.

Things You'll Need

  • Calculator
  • Notebook or computer spreadsheet
  • Golf score
  • Slope rating
  • Golf course rating
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Instructions

    • 1

      Determine the differentials for your most recent golf scores. Use the United States Golf Association (USGA) formula for determining a handicap differential by subtracting the course rating from your score, multiplying that by 113 and dividing by the course slope rating. Establish the differentials from your most recent 20 rounds.

    • 2

      Calculate your handicap index by adding the lowest 10 handicap differentials of your most recent 20 rounds. Divide that number by 10. Multiply this number by .96 to establish your handicap.

    • 3

      Create a spreadsheet or list in a notebook of the differentials you have established. Note them by the date of the round so that you can keep track of the most recent ones.

    • 4

      After playing a new round, determine your handicap differential using the above formula. Add it to the spreadsheet or notebook. Including the new differential with the most recent 19 rounds, redetermine the lowest 10 differentials to see if the new score should be included in evaluating your handicap.

    • 5

      Add the 10 lowest round differentials and divide by 10. This will be your current, adjusted handicap index.