Green on 19
Team points

How to Play Scotch

Also called: Six-Point Scotch · Scotch points · Scotch foursomes

Six-Point Scotch is a 4-player team game that divides 6 points across categories on each hole. A common menu rewards low individual ball, low team total, birdies and proximity, but local versions vary widely.

Best for

Regular foursomes that want every player's score and several shot-making achievements to matter.

Handicaps

Use net scores for low-ball and low-total points when abilities differ; define event points separately.

The clean version

Scotch Rules

  1. 1

    Form 2 teams of 2 and publish exactly how the 6 points are earned.

  2. 2

    Play every hole and calculate low ball and low team total using the agreed gross or net method.

  3. 3

    Award the remaining points for the published events, such as birdie or closest to the pin.

  4. 4

    Split tied categories unless the group uses carryovers.

  5. 5

    Apply sweep or press rules only after the base 6 points are clear.

Before the first tee

Set Up the Game

  • Choose teams
  • Write the six-point menu
  • Choose gross or net by category
  • Define ties, sweeps and presses

Worked example

How the Scoring Works

Team A wins 2 points for low ball and 2 for low total. Team B earns 1 for a birdie and 1 for closest to the pin. Team A wins the hole 4-2, a net gain of 2 points.

Mix it carefully

Can Scotch Be Played With Other Games?

Scotch already combines team scores and achievement points, so another full game usually adds duplicate bookkeeping.

Best complementary games

SnakeRead the companion guide

House-rule territory

Popular Variations

  • Low ball worth 2 and low total worth 2
  • Birdie and closest worth 1 each
  • Sweep doubles all 6
  • Rotate teams every 6 holes

Play smarter

Strategy Without the Spreadsheet

  • Protect the second score because team total is often worth as much as low ball.
  • Separate score points from event points before netting the hole.
  • Use a written template; 'Scotch' means different things at different clubs.

Quick answers

Scotch FAQ

Is Scotch always alternate shot?

No. Scotch can refer to alternate-shot formats, but Six-Point Scotch is a separate team points game. State the version explicitly.

How are the 6 points awarded?

A common setup uses 2 for low ball, 2 for low team total and 1 each for 2 achievement categories.

Why do Scotch rules vary?

It is a club and house-rules game, so point menus, sweeps and tie treatment evolve locally.