Most golfers seem to know very well what their ESC (Equitable Stroke Control) maximum is. This is the most you can record on a given hole, based on your Course Handicap. ESC has only one purpose, which is to keep an exceptionally bad hole score (just say NO to posting that ugly 12 you took on #4!) from changing a Handicap Index too much.
 

But, what do you do if you concede a putt? Or lose a match? Or can’t finish a hole or your whole round, for that matter? For posting purposes, ESC just isn’t going to work in those situations, and the rules are that you still have to post your score. Here’s a little Q & A to help.
 

Q: If I pick up on a hole, what score do I post?

A: You must record your “most likely score” for handicap purposes. This is used any time you start but don’t finish a hole, and it’s helpful to remember that a conceded stroke is considered an unfinished hole. Your most likely score is the number of strokes already taken plus, in your best judgment, the number of strokes needed to complete the hole most of the time. Do the quick math in your head – if it doesn’t go over your max ESC, then use that number.
 

Q: I lost a match 4 and 3, so I only completed 15 holes. Can I turn in an 18-hole score?

A: Yes, this score must be posted for handicap purposes. For the holes that were not played, record a score of par plus any handicap strokes you are entitled to based on full Course Handicap. Remember to do this “par plus” adjustment any time you cannot finish your round.
 

1 – 6 No score

7 – 12 Post a nine hole score

13 – 18 Post an 18 hole score