Introduction
If you’re new to golf or simply curious about how the game’s scoring works, you’ve probably heard the term bogey more times than you can count. But what does it really mean, and why do golfers talk about it so often? Think of golf scoring like climbing a hill—sometimes you reach the top smoothly, and other times, you take an extra step. A bogey is simply that extra step.
In this guide, we’ll explore the meaning, history, strategy, and impact of bogeys in golf in a friendly, conversational way—breaking things down so anyone can understand.
What Does a Bogey Mean in Golf?
A bogey simply means scoring one stroke over par on a hole.
If a hole is supposed to take three shots (par 3) and you need four, that is a bogey.
It’s not the worst score you can get, and many beginners—even seasoned players—see bogeys as normal.
The Origin and History of the Term “Bogey”
The term originated in the late 19th century from a song called “The Bogey Man.” Early golfers referred to the ideal score on a hole as the “bogey score,” named after an imaginary opponent.
Over time, scoring evolved, and “par” became the standard benchmark—turning a bogey into “one shot more than par.”
How Golf Scoring Works
Golf scoring can feel complicated, but here’s a simple breakdown:
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Par: The standard number of strokes a skilled golfer is expected to need to finish a hole.
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Bogey: One stroke more than par
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Double Bogey: Two strokes more
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Birdie: One stroke less
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Eagle: Two strokes less
Bogeys become easier to understand once you grasp how par works.
Types of Bogeys You Should Know
• Single Bogey
One stroke over par—most common.
• Double Bogey
Two strokes over par—still common for beginners.
• Triple Bogey
Three shots over par—usually the result of trouble like water hazards or bunkers.
• Quad Bogey and Beyond
Four or more strokes over par—typically only seen on very tough holes or off days.
Why Bogeys Are Not Always a Bad Thing
Many golfers assume bogeys are failures, but that’s far from the truth.
A bogey can actually be:
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A smart choice when a risky shot could lead to worse numbers
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A good result on difficult long par-4 holes
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A stress-free plan for high-handicap players
Sometimes, playing for bogey keeps your game consistent.
How Beginners Can Avoid Bogeys
Reducing bogeys isn’t about hitting perfect shots. It’s about playing smarter.
Here’s how beginners can improve:
• Choose safer targets
Instead of aiming directly at the flag, aim for the center of the green.
• Improve your short game
Most strokes are lost within 50 yards of the hole.
• Don’t force difficult shots
Punch out of trees instead of trying a miracle swing.
Common Mistakes That Lead to Bogeys
Many bogeys come from avoidable choices:
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Over-swinging
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Selecting the wrong club
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Ignoring wind direction
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Poor putting distance control
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Trying to recover too quickly after a bad shot
Avoiding these errors can dramatically lower scores.
What Professionals Think About Bogeys
For professionals, bogeys are not the end of the world.
In fact, many pros defend tough holes by accepting a bogey rather than risking a blow-up score.
On courses like those in major championships, bogeys are completely normal—even expected.
Course Management Tips to Lower Your Bogey Count
• Play to your strengths
If you’re good with hybrids, use them instead of long irons.
• Know when to lay up
Playing short of hazards reduces risk.
• Study the green before putting
A quick read can save you strokes.
• Track your misses
If you often miss right, play with that in mind.
Good course management often reduces bogeys more than skill alone.
Equipment Choices That Influence Your Score
Believe it or not, your gear has a big impact on bogeys.
• Forgiving irons
These help reduce mishits.
• Hybrids instead of long irons
Easier to hit and more consistent.
• Putters that match your stroke
A balanced putter improves short-distance accuracy.
• Correct ball choice
Some balls travel farther; others offer more control.
Choosing the proper gear can simplify your game and make every round far more enjoyable.
The Psychology Behind Scoring a Bogey
A bogey can mess with your mindset if you let it.
But remember:
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One bad hole doesn’t ruin a round
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Staying calm prevents bigger mistakes
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Confidence is more valuable than perfection
Golf challenges the mind just as much as it tests your physical skills.
How Bogey Affects Your Handicap
Handicaps measure your playing ability.
Scoring bogeys is common for players with double-digit handicaps.
Bogeys help:
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Establish realistic scoring patterns
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Balance your expected performance
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Track improvement over time
A bogey-based round is perfectly normal for everyday golfers.
Practice Drills to Reduce Bogeys
Here are effective drills:
• 3-foot circle drill
Improves short putting consistency.
• Chipping landing spot drill
Helps control distance and trajectory.
• Fairway alignment practice
Builds accuracy off the tee.
• Bunker-to-green routine
Develops confidence in sand shots.
Consistent practice leads to fewer bogeys naturally.
Bogey vs. Par: What’s the Real Difference?
A par is the ideal score.
A bogey means you took one extra shot.
The difference may sound small, but over 18 holes, it adds up.
However, for many golfers, bogey golf (scoring around 90) is an excellent achievement.
FAQs
1. What exactly is a bogey in golf?
A bogey is a score of one stroke over par on any hole.
2. Is scoring bogeys normal for beginners?
Yes, bogeys are extremely common and expected for new players.
3. How can I reduce the number of bogeys I make?
Practice your short game, choose smarter targets, and avoid risky shots.
4. Do professional golfers ever score bogeys?
Absolutely. Even top players make bogeys, especially on tough courses.
5. Is bogey golf considered good?
For many amateur golfers, bogey golf (around 90 per round) is a very solid performance.
Final Thoughts
A bogey in golf isn’t something to fear—it’s simply part of the game. Whether you’re a beginner or a casual player, understanding bogeys helps you play smarter, stay calm, and enjoy the experience. Remember, consistency matters more than perfection.
Golf, like life, is about progress—not flawless performance.