What Is a Plus Handicap? Examples and How Scoring Works

A plus handicap means a golfer’s Handicap Index is better than 0.0. A player listed as +2.0 is on the opposite side of scratch from a player with a 2.0 Index.

The confusing part is the word “plus.” In most sports, plus sounds like extra help. In golf handicapping, a plus player generally gives strokes back in net competition rather than receiving them.

I hear golfers use Handicap Index, Course Handicap, and scoring average as if they mean the same thing. They do not. Understanding the difference prevents most of the confusion.

Handicap Index Is Not Your Average Score

A Handicap Index is a portable measure of demonstrated playing ability under the World Handicap System. It is calculated from acceptable posted scores and adjusted for course difficulty. The official system handles the calculation; you do not need to average your last few rounds yourself.

A +2.0 player is not being promised an average score of two under par. Gross scoring depends on the tees, Course Rating, Slope Rating, conditions, and the player’s performance that day.

The safest way to describe the number is this: a +2.0 Index represents a stronger demonstrated ability than scratch, while a 2.0 Index represents an ability slightly above scratch on the other side of zero.

Handicap Index and Course Handicap

Your Handicap Index travels with you. Your Course Handicap applies that Index to the specific course, tees, Course Rating, Slope Rating, and par being played.

The World Handicap System formula is:

Course Handicap = Handicap Index × (Slope Rating ÷ 113) + (Course Rating − Par)

The result is rounded to a whole number. A plus Index is entered as a negative value in the calculation even though golfers write it with a plus sign.

For example, consider a +2.0 Index playing tees with a Slope Rating of 113, Course Rating of 72.0, and par of 72:

-2.0 × (113 ÷ 113) + (72 − 72) = -2.0

That produces a Course Handicap of +2. In an individual net stroke-play example with a 100 percent allowance, a gross 70 plus two handicap strokes becomes a net 72.

Different formats can use handicap allowances, and committees may set the competition terms. Use the official GHIN or authorized handicap app and the event’s instructions instead of applying this example blindly.

Where the Added Strokes Go

A plus Course Handicap adds strokes on holes rather than subtracting them. The scorecard’s stroke-index allocation determines where those adjustments apply. In a match, strokes are usually handled relative to the lowest player’s handicap, so always confirm the competition format before the round.

The practical lesson is simple: do not write “+2” on the card and subtract two because the number looks positive. Confirm the Course Handicap and let the scorecard or scoring app show the proper holes.

Plus Handicap Versus Scratch Golfer

A scratch golfer has a Handicap Index of 0.0. A plus golfer is better than scratch within the handicap system.

That does not mean every plus player shoots under par every round. Golfers still have normal scoring variation, and course difficulty matters. It also does not mean two +2.0 players have identical games. One may gain an advantage through driving and approach play while another relies more on short game and putting.

If you want to compare the skills behind different levels, see golf statistics by handicap and my guide to scoring like a scratch golfer.

How a Golfer Reaches Plus Territory

When golfers ask me how to become a plus handicap, I do not start with the label. I start with the shots being lost.

Track at least these categories for five rounds:

1. Penalty strokes.

2. Tee shots that force a recovery.

3. Approach proximity and greens hit.

4. Extra chips or bunker shots.

5. Three-putts and missed short putts.

Then test the weakest category in practice. A golfer who loses shots through penalties needs a different plan from one who gives away strokes from 80 yards.

The handicap follows better golf; chasing the number without measuring the game usually creates random practice.

Your Next Step

Use the official handicap service to confirm your current Index and Course Handicap before competition. On the course, track the scoring categories you can improve rather than trying to “play to” a specific number on every hole.

Free scoring resource: Build a simpler plan for the shots themselves with my free Break 90 Blueprint and Shot Leak Audit.

For structured skill practice beyond the rules, explore the Foy Golf Academy Practice Plans.