Handicap cut query

[Foxholer]

If what I describe is an alternative then what is THE method?

RTFM http://www.englandgolf.org/e-brochure/index.html

In this area, the English and Scottish versions match. They differ in other areas.

Clause 19 and Appendix C are the relevant bits here. The wording after 19.2 is what Rosecott is referring to.