What is a Bad Golf Score?

Golf is a great game to enjoy and unwind with, but we all know how difficult it can be for a novice to keep score. If you’re asking, “What is a Bad Golf Score?” Don’t fret, this happens to all of us. We will keep it simple so that you understand what your score is and how you can improve.

What Is a Golf Score?

In golf, your score is the sum of the numbers of strokes (hits) you do to finish a round. The full rounds, consisting of 18 holes, each round has a ”par”—the average number of strokes that a good golfer is expected to take. I mean, to illustrate, if a hole is a par 4, a good player completes the hole in 4 strokes.

Your score is “over par” if you take more strokes than par. If you take less, you are all “under par.” The whole point of the game is to play a round with the least amount of strokes possible.

Also Read: What is the Longest Drive in Golf?

What Is Considered a Bad Golf Score?

What They Consider a “Bad” Golf Score Depends on Your Experience Level, but Here are Some General Guidelines:

• Novice: It is not unusual for someone completely new to the game to score greater than 120 on an 18-hole course. This can be seen as a relatively high score, but it is still just a point-in-time place you can start working with.
• Recreational Golfers: 10 Most recreational golfers are trying to break 100. That’s above 100, which many might consider a not-so-great score, even among casual players.
• Competent Golfers: Average amateurs will typically settle for scores in the 70s or low 80s. A day in which they score in the 90s or higher, for them, is a bad day.

Therefore, the “bad” score here is relative. For a novice, 120 may be okay; while a more advanced player may be upset with anything above 90.

Examples of Golf Scores

• Par 72 Course: A regular 18 hole course with a total par of 72
• Beginner Score: If you get a score of 120, you are 48 over par.
• Average Score of the Golfer: Around 100, you are 28 over par.
• Professional Score: Pros play for the 60s, which is under par.

Also Read: How to Hit a Golf Ball Higher

Tips to Improve Your Golf Score

• Practice: Hit balls on the range and the putting green to stabilize your game.
• Get Lessons — A good golf instructor will help you practice and improve both your technique and strategy.
• Course Management: Play Smart on Course & Know When to Lay Up
• Keep Your Head Up: Golf is nearly half a mental sport. Check yourself with a positive attitude after bad shots.

Also Read: How to Manage a Golf Club

Your idea of a “bad” golf score depends on your experience and aspirations. And most importantly — just get better and have fun. Keep in mind that everyone has to start somewhere, so with practice and patience, your scores will improve eventually!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is a golf score?

Ans: Total strokes taken in a round.

2. What is a par in golf?

Ans: Expected strokes for a hole or course.

3. What is over par?

Ans: More strokes than par.

4. What is under par?

Ans: Fewer strokes than par.

5. What’s a bad score for beginners?

Ans: Over 120.

6. What’s a bad score for casual golfers?

Ans: Over 100.

7. What’s a bad score for experienced golfers?

Ans: Over 90.

8. What’s a good score for the pros?

Ans: In the 60s.

9. What’s the average golf score?

Ans: Around 100.

10. How can I improve my score?

Ans: Practice, lessons, and smart play.

11. Is golf mental or physical?

Ans: Both, but mostly mental.

12. How many holes in a round?

Ans: 18 holes.