Match play is the original format of golf in which two players compete against each other. Instead of individual players, two parties consisting of two players each can also play against each other. Until the introduction of stroke play in the 18th century, golf was played only in match play format.
In match play, score cards are generally not used. It is just important that both parties agree on the current score thrughout the match. If you still want to use a score card, it is sufficient to enter a + for a won hole, a - for a lost hole or a 0 for a halfed hole. The winner is the player who leads with more won holes than there are still to play. Example:, i.e. if a player is e.g. "4 up" after finishing the 15th hole, she/he has already won the game "4 and 3″ there, because there are only three holes to go and the opponent has no more chance to win. If a player is "3 up" with three holes left to go, the game is "dormie" for her/him, she/he cannot lose the entire game on the remaining holes to be played. A matchplay may end in a draw.
A match play play is usually scheduled for 18 holes, but could end earlier, in rare occasions already after 10 holes if they have all been won by one party.