Strokeplay/Matchplay

Forms of Play. Match play and stroke play are very different forms of play:

• In match play, you and your opponent compete against each other based on holes won, lost or tied.
• In the regular form of stroke play, all players compete with one another based on each player's total score (Rule 21 covers other forms of stroke play that use a different scoring method, ie. medal or stableford).

You either play as an individual competing on your own or with a partner competing together as a side. Although Rules 1-20 focus on individual play, they also apply where partners and teams are included.

Gross or Net Scores. In a scratch competition, your "gross score" for a hole or the round is your total number of strokes. In a handicap competition, your "net score" for a hole or the round is your gross score adjusted for your handicap strokes.