What Is a Scramble in Golf?
Scramble: The most popular team format — pick the best shot each time, everyone plays from there.
Scramble — full definition
The most popular team format in charity and corporate outings. All players tee off, the team picks the best shot, and everyone plays their next shot from that spot. This repeats until the ball is holed. Scrambles produce low scores and keep the pace moving since weaker shots are simply abandoned.
Scramble — frequently asked
Scramble — how does it work?
- All players tee off, team picks the best drive
- Everyone plays their next shot from that spot
- Repeat until the ball is holed
Scramble — why is it popular?
- Produces low scores that feel great for all skill levels
- Keeps pace of play moving — weaker shots are abandoned
- The go-to format for charity and corporate outings
More on Scramble
Stymie runs a directory of scramble events specifically, because it is the format almost every charity outing uses.
- Charity scramble directoryUpcoming scrambles by state and city.
- Submit an eventRunning one? List it free.
- Golf course directoryFind and contact a venue.
Other game formats
Stroke Play
The most common competitive format — count every stroke, lowest total wins.
Match Play
A hole-by-hole format — win the most holes, not the lowest total score.
Stableford
A points-based scoring system where the highest point total wins.
Best Ball
A team format where each player plays their own ball and the best score on each hole counts.
Alternate Shot
A two-person format where partners take turns hitting the same ball.
Skins
A gambling format where each hole has a set value — win the hole outright, win the money.
Nassau
The most common betting format — three bets in one: front nine, back nine, and overall.