First of all, what is a -3? Is it 69 on STA 18 holes, or 31 = 62 on Oly front 9?
It's gross scores counting, not any relative to Par., 9 hole scores doubled.
Second, did you ever come across "average calculation" in your math class? It's the concept of adding up a bunch of numbers, e.g. 60 + 62 + 64 + 66 + 68 = 320 and dividing this number by the count of numbers (= 5), 320 / 5 resulting in an average of 64.
Third, do you have an idea what a number above the average would do to the average when being added? Think of a 68, would it rise or drop it? Correct answer being "rise"...
Four, a difficult thing. WGT averages "saturate", i.e. there is a max number of scores dependant on the tier. A Hack's average includes the five best scores for instance. So, playing another 68 would not affect the average above, but a 67 would, kicking out the highest number, 68, and resulting in a calculation of 60 + 62 + 64 + 66 + 68 67 = 319, average 63.8.
Now you're ready for a test: What would change when playing another 67?
KGOldWolf: So what you are saying is -3 do not lower ratings automatically. And since ratings are based on recorded scores, there is an advantage to quitting despite what WGT says.
Five: Nope!
Posting a high score instead of quitting would not affect the average once there are enough better rounds. In that example above, it's irrelevant if the player posted a 70 or 80 or whatever before - they are out of the equation.
Of course there'd be less balls used up, and temporarily a lower average would show (good for the ego), but you miss to practice the back holes of the courses which might cost you more time in the end. "Jeez, what a strange hole!?! Wonder why I play so bad on the finishing stretch!"
Have fun!