How are Stableford points calculated for a hole?
You get points by comparing your total strokes (including penalties) to the hole's fixed target score — usually par. Beat the target and you earn 3 to 6 points; match it for 2; one over gets 1; anything worse is zero.
This page covers the per-hole points table and the zero-points pickup rule. For the full format overview — handicap allocation, strategy, and how to submit your card — see the Stableford format guide.
The points table in plain English
The fixed target score is par unless the committee says otherwise. If you take the same strokes as the target, that's 2 points. One stroke better is 3 points, two better is 4, three better is 5, and four better is 6. One stroke over the target gives you 1 point. Two or more over — or if you don't hole out — gives you zero.
When to pick up and save time
The rules actually encourage you to stop playing a hole once your score will only earn zero points. If you're already two over the target and still haven't holed out, you can pick up, mark zero, and move on. The hole counts as completed either when you hole out, choose not to, or when zero points are locked in.
What goes on the scorecard
If you hole out and would get points, write the actual stroke count. If you hole out but get zero points, you can write the score or leave it blank. If you don't hole out at all, same deal — blank or any score that equals zero points. The committee does the math and applies handicap strokes afterward.
Frequently asked questions
What counts as my score for Stableford — just my swings?
Your score includes every stroke you make plus any penalty strokes. A lost ball adds stroke-and-distance, a water hazard adds one — they all count toward the total you compare to the target.
Can the committee set a target score that isn't par?
Yes. The fixed target score is par by default, but the committee can set a different number for any hole. Whatever they set becomes the baseline for the points table.
Do I have to hole out on every hole in Stableford?
No. Once you're guaranteed zero points — typically two strokes over the target — you're encouraged to pick up. The hole is complete when you hole out, decide to stop, or zero points are certain.
What do I write on the scorecard if I pick up?
Leave the score blank or write any number that would result in zero points. The committee calculates your actual points later, after applying handicap strokes if it's a handicap competition.
Does a no-score (NR) mean the same as zero points?
Effectively yes. If you don't hole out under the Rules for any reason, you get zero points for that hole. On the card, you show either no score or a score that equals zero points.