Ace (Hole-in-One)
Scoring
Explained Simply
Getting the ball in the hole with just one shot — only possible on a par-3. Extremely rare, even for pros.
Example
“You tee off on a par-3 and the ball goes straight in the cup = ace!”
Why it matters
It's the most celebrated shot in golf. By tradition, the player who makes an ace often buys drinks for the bar.
Common beginner mistake
Swinging too hard trying to 'go for it' on every par-3. Smooth, accurate swings are more likely to produce an ace than a hard one.
Related
casual
Scoring
Related
- EagleFinishing a hole in two strokes LESS than par. On a par-5, an eagle is a score of 3.
- BirdieFinishing a hole in one stroke LESS than par. On a par-4, a birdie is a score of 3.
- ParThe number of strokes a skilled golfer is expected to take on a hole or for the whole round. Most holes are par 3, 4, or 5.