What the Hole Handicap Really Means (and How to Use It in Match Play)

You’ve seen it on every scorecard—right next to the yardage and par for each hole: a number from 1 to 18 labeled “Handicap.” But what does that number really mean? Is a “handicap 1” hole harder than “handicap 18”? Does it matter if you’re playing a casual round or a money match?

Let’s break it down.

The Basics: Handicap = Difficulty Ranking

The hole handicap is a ranking of the holes from most difficult (1) to least difficult (18)—but it’s not about which hole is hardest for everyone. It’s about which holes are most difficult relative to par for an average bogey golfer, and, more importantly, how to fairly distribute strokes during match play and net scoring.

So no, a long par 5 isn’t always the “hardest” hole. It might be easier to bogey than a short par 4 with water left and OB right. The hole handicap accounts for that.

Why It Matters: Stroke Allocation in Match Play & Net Scoring

If you’re playing in a net event or a match with handicaps, these numbers determine where players get strokes.

Let’s say:

• You’re a 10 handicap

• Your buddy is a 15 handicap

He gets 5 strokes in a match—and he’ll get them on the five hardest holes on the course (holes ranked 1–5 on the handicap line). That means on those holes, he subtracts one stroke from his score.

In a net stroke play event, the full handicap is applied across the 18 holes based on these rankings, with higher-handicap holes giving strokes first.

It’s Not a Perfect Science

Hole handicaps are determined by the course’s governing body (often using USGA recommendations and play data). It’s part math, part art. And sometimes you’ll see quirky stuff—like a super short par 3 listed as handicap 6. That might be because it’s a disaster hole for mid-to-high handicappers who miss the green and rack up doubles.

Remember: hole handicap isn’t based on how it plays for scratch golfers. It’s based on how it separates players of different abilities.

Pro Tip: Use It Strategically in Match Play

Knowing which holes are handicap 1–5 can help you game-plan:

• Play your normal game on holes you already score well on—no need to force it just because you’re getting a stroke.
• Dial it back on holes where you don’t get a stroke—par might not be enough.
• On the toughest holes where you do get a stroke, take smart chances—you’ve got a cushion.
  

Final Thought: Know the Numbers, Then Play Your Game

Most golfers glance at the handicap line without thinking twice. But once you understand how it works, it opens up new strategy in both casual rounds and competitive play. Handicap numbers aren’t just for the scorecard—they’re built to level the playing field, hole by hole.

So next time you’re playing a match, don’t just ask what you shot. Ask: “Where did you get your strokes?”