What does E stand for in golf? Here's how over and under par scoring works
Scoring in golf is different from other sports. In most sports, the highest score wins, but in golf, the player with the lowest score is victorious.
Golf's over and under par scoring system measures score relative to par.
Par is the number of strokes a course sets for skillful players to finish each hole. Most 18-hole golf courses range from par 70 to 72.
When the number of strokes taken matches par, it's considered even par, signified with an "E" on most scoreboards.
If a player completes the hole in one shot less par, or birdie, minus 1 is calculated on the scoreboard.
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On the other hand, if the player needs a stroke above par, it's called a bogey and plus 1 is added to his or her score.
Eagle: An eagle is achieved with two shots fewer than the par score.
Double Eagle: Double Eagle is three shots below par.
Hole in One or Ace: A hole-in-one is achieved when a player holes his tee shot. This often happens on par-3 holes.
In the end, the over and under par scoring seen on leaderboards doesn't really matter, it's a way for players and fans to easily determine the leaders. The winner is determined by the total number of strokes.
What happens if a player signs an incorrect scorecard?
According to the United States Golf Association’s Rules of Golf, players are responsible for submitting accurate scorecards. Players who sign an incorrect scorecard at the end of a round are subject to disqualification.
Incorrect score cost Masters Tournament competitor tie for lead
In 1968, Robert DeVincenzo was tied for the Masters Tournament lead with Bob Goalby after the final round. He didn't double check his score before signing his scorecard. His playing partner Tommy Aaron had mistakenly recorded a 4 for the 17th hole instead of the 3 DiVicenzo actually shot on the hole.
The tournament committee counted the extra stroke and DeVincenzo was awarded second place.
Afterward, DeVincenzo famously said, "What a stupid I am."
This article originally appeared on Augusta Chronicle: What are birdies and bogeys? How golf's over, under par scoring works
