The Definition
Par is the standard number of strokes a skilled golfer is expected to use to complete a hole, including two putts on the green. A full 18-hole round typically has a par of 70, 71, or 72 — most commonly 72. Individual holes are designated par 3, par 4, or par 5 based primarily on their yardage and difficulty. Shooting 'par' for a round means matching the expected score exactly.
How Par Is Determined for Each Hole
Par for an individual hole is set based on the expected number of strokes from tee to green (excluding putts), plus two putts. A par 3 hole expects one stroke to reach the green. A par 4 expects two strokes. A par 5 expects three strokes. Yardage guidelines: par 3s are typically under 260 yards (men), par 4s are 240-470 yards, and par 5s are 430+ yards. However, hole design and difficulty can modify these standards.
Par for Men vs Women
The USGA sets different yardage ranges for par by gender. Women golfers use shorter yardage parameters — a hole that's a par 4 for men might be a par 5 for women from the same tee location. Many courses offer multiple tee boxes specifically to make par appropriate for different skill levels and distances. Playing from the right tees is one of the most effective ways to improve your golf experience.
Course Par vs Par for the Hole
Individual hole par and course par are distinct concepts. Course par is the sum of all 18 hole pars — typically 72 on a standard course. A course might have four par 3s, ten par 4s, and four par 5s summing to 72. Alternatively, it might have three par 3s, twelve par 4s, and three par 5s for the same total. Course designers balance par distribution to create rhythm and variety throughout the round.
Why Par Matters for Handicap
Your handicap calculation incorporates par through the score differential formula: (Adjusted Gross Score - Course Rating) x (113/Slope Rating). Course Rating represents the expected score for a scratch golfer (roughly par) on that course. Understanding par is essential for understanding handicap calculations and for setting realistic scoring goals as your game improves.
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