In golf, a birdie is when a player scores one stroke under par on any given hole.
Par is the number of strokes an expert golfer is expected to need to complete a hole, and therefore, a birdie reflects a better-than-average outcome.
A golfer achieves a birdie by completing the hole in one fewer shots than what is considered par.
For example, on a par-4 hole, scoring a 3 means the player has made a birdie.
It’s a notable achievement and often a big deal to get one for many players.
Most amateur golfers are most likely to get a birdie on a par-5.
Aside from pro golfers, getting a lot of birdies per round is rare.
Even scratch golfers only average 1-2 birdies per round.
Understanding Golf Scoring Terms
Golf scoring can seem complex, but knowing the key terms like birdie, par, and bogey helps make sense of it.
These terms relate to the number of strokes a golfer takes compared to the course’s standard.
Birdie: One Stroke Under Par
A birdie is a score that is one stroke under par for a given hole.
If a golfer finishes a hole in three strokes on a par-4, that’s a birdie.
Golf Scoring Spectrum: Par to Bogey and Beyond
The spectrum of scores in golf starts with par, indicating the expected number of strokes to finish a hole.
Scoring over par, like a bogey (one over), double bogey (two over), or worse, implies a golfer took more strokes than average.
Scoring under par, with a birdie or eagle (two under), shows better than average performance.
Here is a list of the most common terms and their score in relation to par:
Frequently Asked Questions
How is a birdie scored in golf?
A birdie is scored when a golfer completes a hole one stroke under par.
Par is the expected number of strokes it should take a skilled golfer to finish a hole.
What is the difference between a birdie and an eagle in golf?
The difference lies in the number of strokes under par.
A birdie is one under par, while an eagle is two strokes under par.
This means an eagle is a better score than a birdie.
