Golf Etiquette and Rules of Golf for the Novice

How to Behave on the Golf Course, Gain Confidence, Enjoy Playing

Apr 21, 2009

The amount of golf rules can seem daunting to a novice golfer. Learn the important rules and etiquette to help you relax and give you confidence when playing.

There seems so much to learn for the novice golfer that it can often inhibit them from wanting to venture out onto the golf course. But learning some of the basic rules will help them relax and enjoy the experience much more.

Basic Rules to Give Confidence

Tee your ball up between the markers on the tee.
You are only allowed to pick the ball up when it is on the green
Do not move the ball in the rough or improve the lie of the ball
You are responsible for counting how many shots you have on a hole
Touching the sand with your club before you hit a ball out of a bunker or trap is not allowed
If you think you have lost a ball you may drop another one, which is called a provisional ball.
To drop a ball correctly stand upright, hold you arm away from your body at shoulder height and let go.
On the green you must not touch the line of the putt with your putter

Perhaps more importantly for the beginner is golfing etiquette. If you are playing with someone else more experienced normally they will politely point out the rules and you will learn as you play more, but knowing the correct etiquette is important.

Essential Etiquette for the Beginner

Adhere to the clothing code of the club - some require collars on shirts
Always be early for a game if you have a teeing off time
The golfer furthest from the hole should play first
If you are holding up play stand aside and call through the group behind
On the green if your playing partner cannot see the hole offer to hold the flag
Make sure you know which ball you are playing
It is polite to help your playing partner look for their ball if they can’t find it
Don’t get so wrapped up in your own game you don’t congratulate your partner when they hit a good shot
If your ball is heading towards someone on the course shout ‘FORE’ loudly
If you hear the word ‘FORE’ duck and put your hands over your head. Do not look up!
Make sure you wear the right shoes with the correct studs. Some courses prefer soft spikes.

Relax and Enjoy the Game of Golf

Over the last few years the stigma associated with golf, being an old man’s game for stuffed shirts, has changed. Nowadays, most experienced golfers go out of their way to help a novice, so don’t panic about playing. Many close friendships have been forged by golfers on the course. Try to relax, have confidence in the bonhomie of your fellow golfers and enjoy the experience. Best of luck!

The copyright of the article Golf Etiquette and Rules of Golf for the Novice in How to Play Golf is owned by John Hoskison. Permission to republish Golf Etiquette and Rules of Golf for the Novice in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.

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