Birdie
Scoring
Explained Simply
Finishing a hole in one stroke LESS than par. On a par-4, a birdie is a score of 3.
Example
“You hit the green in one shot on a par-3 and make the putt = score of 2 = birdie.”
Why it matters
Birdies are exciting and relatively rare for beginners. Celebrate every single one.
Common beginner mistake
Forcing risky shots trying to set up a birdie chance. Take the safe route — birdies will happen naturally as you improve.
Related
beginner
Scoring
Related
- 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.
- EagleFinishing a hole in two strokes LESS than par. On a par-5, an eagle is a score of 3.
- Stroke PlayThe most common format — every stroke counts for the entire round. Lowest total score wins.