please explain index vs score

[Blastin_Bob]

I'm just getting back into golf after a very long layoff and am trying to re-establish a legitimate handicap. My club I joined uses Public Links Golf Association for posting scores. Can someone explain the difference between the "trend index" and avg. "differential score", which I "assume" is my handicap. There is a almost 5 point difference between the two.

Thanks in advance, Bob

[powerfade]

Your "Trend index" is simply your latest, most current index using scores that have been posted to PLGA's system (via the at-course computer or online if your club allows it) for that month. Your trend will become next month's Index. If you post scores late in the month or after they are played, this could affect your trend. Using the formula I show under Index below, you can keep track of your trend if you wish to.

A "Differential" represents your performance during one round. This is why you see a 5 point difference between that and your Trend. One is comprised of the other. I'll try to to explain.

Differentials
Your "Index" is derived from your 10 lowest "differentials" out of your last 20 posted rounds. Here's the formula...

Handicap differential= (Adjusted Gross Score - Course Rating) x 113 / Slope Rating

Example, let's say you shot an "adjusted" 89 at a course rated 69.2 from the white tees with a slope of 124.

Your "differential" for that round would be 18.0.
18.0 = (89-69.2) x 113 / 124.

Index (aka your Handicap )
To get your "Index", use this formula using your 10 lowest differentials over your past 20 rounds.

Add the 10 lowest differentials, then divide by 10 then multiply by .96

Here's an example. Remember, you have to use your best 10 out of your last 20 differentials.

(11.2+12.5+13.4+13.4+14.9+15.1+16.0+17.9+18.0+20.2) / 10 * .96 = 14.6

This results in an Index of 14.6.

Course Handicap
Finally, the Index and slope (tee ratings) are used to determine your "Course Handicap" for the round you are about to play. This is where your true handicap stokes are determined.

Here's a link to the USGA Course Handicap calculator.

Hope this helps.

[Blastin_Bob]

Yes it helps, thanks.

Bob

[Fourputt]

In GHIN system the trend index is just that, it's the trend that your scores show... the direction that your handicap is headed, not where it is now. It is NOT the handicap index that you use for play.

Even your GHIN handicap index is NOT the handicap you use for playing on most courses. It has to be applied to a chart, usually posted at the course. Ask in the golf shop where you play if they have it posted, or where you can find the chart. You find your index on the chart, and it will tell you what what the actual course handicap is for the rating of that course.

[Golf Yokel]

etc... etc... etc...

Holy mother of confusing calculations, Batman...

[iacas]

Even your GHIN handicap index is NOT the handicap you use for playing on most courses. It has to be applied to a chart, usually posted at the course. Ask in the golf shop where you play if they have it posted, or where you can find the chart. You find your index on the chart, and it will tell you what what the actual course handicap is for the rating of that course.

Right - you have to apply your handicap index to the course slope. If it's > 113, you'll get strokes. If it's Just "Index * Slope / 113" - that's your course handicap. Here's a calculator for you at the USGA site .