WHAT ARE THE INDEX AND TREND?
 

Handicap Index
A Handicap Index is the USGA’s service mark used to indicate a measurement of a player’s potential ability on a course of standard playing difficulty. It is expressed as a number taken to one decimal place, and is used for conversion to a Course Handicap.

Trend Handicap
A trend handicap is an unofficial estimate of a handicap, which may include un-reviewed scores since the previous revision and might not be based on the current scoring record. The trend is not an official handicap and should not be used in formal competition. Use of trend is not recommended by the USGA.

Using a Trend Handicap™

Q.  Does the USGA Handicap System™ recognize a Trend Handicap?

A.  A Trend Handicap is an unofficial estimate of a handicap and is not recognized as a Handicap Index® because it represents un-reviewed scores by the Handicap Committee. A Trend Handicap could be missing scores that have failed to be re-routed to the player’s home club before the next handicap revision, including any possible reductions or modifications to handicaps. A Trend Handicap is not recommended for formal competition.