How to Calculate Stableford Points Manually
Learn the simple step-by-step process for calculating Stableford points without a calculator.
Understanding the Basics
The Stableford system is a scoring method in golf that awards points based on a player's score relative to the par of each hole. Unlike traditional stroke play, higher scores are better. This system prevents one bad hole from ruining an entire round.
The Point System
The standard point allocation is as follows:
- More than 1 over par (or no score): 0 points
- One over par (Bogey): 1 point
- Par: 2 points
- One under par (Birdie): 3 points
- Two under par (Eagle): 4 points
- Three under par (Albatross): 5 points
Step-by-Step Calculation
To calculate your score, you first need to determine your "net score" for each hole using your handicap.
- Determine Strokes Received: Your course handicap determines how many strokes you get. These are taken on the hardest holes, as indicated by the Stroke Index (SI). For example, with a handicap of 18, you get one stroke on every hole. With a handicap of 10, you get one stroke on the holes with SI 1 through 10.
- Calculate Net Score: Subtract the strokes you receive on a hole from your gross (actual) score. For example, if you score a 5 on a par-4 and receive one stroke, your net score is 4 (net par).
- Award Points: Compare your net score to the par of the hole and award points based on the table above. A net par is worth 2 points.
- Total Your Points: Sum the points from all 18 (or 9) holes to get your final Stableford score.
While this process is straightforward, our Stableford Calculator automates it all for you, ensuring speed and accuracy.