Here you will find the key rules, terms and calculations for golf match play and private duels. Every explanation is practical, with clear examples and references to the official Rules of Golf.
Match play basics
Golf match play rules explained simply
— Article · 7 minutes read The key golf match play rules: scoring holes, 3 & 2, concessions, order of play and handicaps, with examples and a table.
What does “3 & 2” mean in golf?
— Article · 4 minutes read A simple explanation of 3 & 2 in golf: why the match ends after the 16th hole, how to read match play results, and common variations.
Match play vs stroke play: what is the difference?
— Article · 6 minutes read Match play and stroke play compared directly: scoring, concessions, order of play, mistakes and tactics, with a clear example.
Handicap and allowances
How to calculate handicaps in match play
— Article · 7 minutes read Match play handicaps step by step: Playing Handicap, difference, handicap allowance, and allocation by Stroke Index, with an example.
Match play handicap calculator
— Calculator Work out how many handicap strokes fall in your match – singles or 2 v 2, free, calculated in the browser and never stored.
Tactics
Match play tactics: play smarter hole by hole
— Article · 7 minutes read Match play tactics without myths: adapt risk to the opponent, plan handicap holes, and use concessions and order of play correctly.