How does Stableford scoring work?

In Stableford, you earn points on each hole based on your strokes versus a fixed target score (usually par). You get zero points if you don't hole out or exceed the target by more than one stroke, and you're encouraged to pick up once you can't score points.

How points are awarded

Points come from comparing your total strokes (including penalties) to the fixed target score for the hole. The target is par unless the Committee sets something different. One over target gets you 1 point, level with target gets 2, one under gets 3, two under gets 4, three under gets 5, and four under gets 6. Anything worse than one over — or no score returned — is zero points.

When to stop playing a hole

To keep things moving, the Rules encourage you to stop playing a hole as soon as your score will result in zero points. The hole is considered completed when you hole out, choose not to hole out, or reach the point where you can't earn any points. There's no penalty for picking up in this situation — it's built into the format.

What to write on the scorecard

If you hole out and would earn points, write the actual stroke count. If you hole out but would get zero points, you can write either no score or any score that results in zero points. If you don't hole out at all, same deal: no score or a zero-point score. The Committee calculates your points afterward, applying handicap strokes first in a handicap competition.

Frequently asked questions

What happens if I don't hole out in Stableford?

You get zero points for that hole. On the scorecard, write either no score or any score that would result in zero points. The Committee handles the points calculation.

Can I pick up my ball once I'm out of points on a hole?

Yes, and you're encouraged to. Once your score will result in zero points, you can stop playing the hole. There's no penalty — the hole is simply completed.

Does the fixed target score have to be par?

Par is the default, but the Committee can set a different fixed target score for any hole. Points are always awarded relative to that target.

Do penalty strokes count toward my Stableford score?

Yes. Your total strokes for the hole include all penalty strokes. Points are based on that total versus the fixed target.

Who calculates the points I earn on each hole?

The Committee is responsible for calculating points. In a handicap competition, they apply handicap strokes to your scorecard score before determining points.