Greens in Regulation (GIR)
Scoring
Explained Simply
Reaching the green in the expected number of shots: par minus 2. That's 1 shot on a par-3, 2 on a par-4, and 3 on a par-5, leaving 2 putts to make par.
Example
“On a par-4, you hit the green with your second shot — that counts as a GIR, regardless of how far the putt is.”
Why it matters
GIR is one of the best predictors of scoring. Hitting more greens — even from 40 feet — almost always beats missing them.
Common beginner mistake
Chasing pins instead of green centers. Aim for the middle of the green to maximize GIRs and avoid short-siding yourself.
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.
- Up and DownGetting the ball into the hole in just two shots from off the green — one shot (a chip or pitch) to get it close, then one putt to hole it.
- Fairways HitThe number of times your tee shot comes to rest in the fairway on par-4s and par-5s (par-3s don't count). Often shown as a fraction like 8/14.