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I started a hole but did not complete it. What score do I post?

What is a most likely score for handicap purposes? A most likely score is the score recorded when you start but cannot complete a hole. It equals your strokes taken, plus any penalty strokes, plus the number of strokes you would most likely need to finish the hole (Rule 3.3, Rules of Handicapping).

When the format of play allows you to start a hole but not complete it, the score recorded for handicap purposes is your most likely score, equal to:
  • The number of strokes already taken on the hole, plus
  • Any penalty strokes incurred during the hole, plus
  • The number of strokes you would most likely require to complete the hole.

A most likely score is a reasonable assessment based on the score you are most likely to make from that spot more than half the time. How do you determine a most likely score by ball position? Use the following guidelines based on how far the ball lies from the hole:
  • If the ball lies on the putting green no more than 5 feet from the hole, add one stroke.
  • If the ball lies between 5 feet and 20 yards from the hole, add 2 or 3 strokes depending on the position of the ball, difficulty of the green and your ability.
  • If the ball lies more than 20 yards from the hole, add 3 or 4 strokes depending on the position of the ball, difficulty of the green and your ability.

(Rule 3.3, Rules of Handicapping)