What score do I write on my Stableford scorecard when I hole out?
You write your actual number of strokes (including any penalties) for that hole. The committee is responsible for converting your stroke total into Stableford points based on the fixed target score for each hole.
What goes on the card when you hole out
If you hole out and your score earns points (anything better than one over the fixed target), the scorecard must show your gross stroke count for that hole. Don't write the points — write the strokes you actually took. The committee does the math afterward. If your score would earn zero points (more than one over the fixed target), you can either leave the hole blank or write any score that results in zero points. Most players just leave it blank to keep the card clean.
What if you don't hole out
When you pick up without holing out — because you're already at zero points or just choose to stop — the scorecard shows either no score or any score that would yield zero points. Again, leaving it blank is the simplest and most common approach. The hole is considered completed once you hole out, decide not to, or reach a score that can't earn points. At that point your obligation to record a number ends.
Handicap competitions work the same way
In a handicap Stableford event, you still write your gross strokes on the card. The committee applies your handicap strokes to each hole before calculating points. You don't net the score yourself — just record what you actually shot.
Frequently asked questions
Do I write the points or the strokes on my Stableford card?
You write your gross stroke count for each hole. The committee converts strokes to points using the fixed target score (usually par) for that hole.
What if I make a triple bogey on a par 4 — do I write 7?
Yes, write 7. That's one over the fixed target (par), which earns 1 point. Only scores more than one over the target (8+ on a par 4) earn zero points, and those you can leave blank.
Can I write the points earned next to the score?
The Terms of the Competition may encourage you to also note the points, but it's never required. The only mandatory entry is your stroke count when you hole out with a scoring score.
What happens if I write the wrong stroke count?
Rule 3.3b applies — you're responsible for the accuracy of your scorecard. An incorrect score for a hole can lead to disqualification if it's lower than actually taken, or the higher score stands if it's higher.
Does the fixed target score ever differ from par?
Yes, the Committee can set a different fixed target score for any hole, but par is the default. Check the competition's Terms of the Competition before you play.