Golf has a unique problem. A 2 handicap and a 20 handicap can love competing with each other, but raw scores do not create a fair competition. That is why net scoring exists.
Gross score
Gross is the actual number of strokes a golfer takes. If you shoot 82, your gross score is 82.
Net score
Net scoring applies handicap strokes to the competition. The goal is to let golfers of different skill levels compete more evenly.
Why both matter
Low handicap players often still care about who shot the lowest actual score. Other golfers care about the net race. Showing both can create 2 competitions inside the same event.
Handicap information and tournament setup
Organizers should define how handicaps are being used before the event. That includes handicap eligibility, handicap source, competition method, stroke allocation, flights, and team calculations. Do not wait until the first tee to explain it.
Flights
Larger fields may also benefit from flights. Instead of having 1 massive leaderboard, players compete against golfers within a similar handicap range. This can create tighter races and more meaningful results.
Parfour and net scoring
Parfour gives organizers tools for gross and net tournament experiences. The key benefit is that scoring stays connected to the actual event rather than requiring organizers to manually calculate separate standings afterward.
When running sanctioned or highly regulated competitions, organizers should always follow the applicable governing rules for handicap calculations.