Course rating is very easy to understand because it is expressed in strokes. A par-72 course that is easy might have a course rating of 68.9; one that is difficult might have a course rating of 74.5. That means that a scratch golfer should be expected to average 68.9 strokes in his better rounds at the easier course; and 74.5 at the more difficult one.
A golf course's USGA Course Rating number is usually included on the scorecard of golf courses that take part in the USGA Handicapping System.
The real importance of Course Rating, however, is the role it plays in the calculation of a USGA Handicap Index. For related FAQs, see:
How are course rating and slope rating determined?
How is handicap index calculated?
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