Spotify Podcast Youtube Envelope

Golf 101

Basic Golf Rules & Etiquette

One thing that makes golf a special game is that you're expected to play the game the right way. Understanding the basic rules and etiquette will not only make your experience smoother but also earn you respect on the course. Unlike other sports, golf is largely self-policed, meaning honesty and proper conduct are key.

Playing the Ball as It Lies

You must play your ball where it lands—no picking it up and moving it unless a rule allows it. If your ball is in an unplayable spot (like deep in the trees), you can take a penalty stroke and drop it in a better position.

Out of Bounds & Lost Balls

If your ball goes out of bounds (marked by white stakes) or is lost, you take a stroke-and-distance penalty—meaning you add one stroke and replay from where you last hit. To speed up play, many courses allow a local rule where you drop the ball near where it was lost and take a two-stroke penalty instead.

Penalty Areas (Water Hazards & Bunkers)

If your ball lands in a water hazard, you can either play it as it lies or take a penalty drop nearby (adding one stroke). If you’re in a bunker (sand trap), you cannot ground your club before your shot—no touching the sand until you swing.

Order of Play (Who Hits First?)

Tee Box: The player with the best score on the last hole usually tees off first. During Play: The golfer farthest from the hole hits first (but casual rounds often use "ready golf" to speed things up).

The Putting Green Rules

Never walk on another player’s putting line (the imaginary path between their ball and the hole). If your ball hits another ball on the green, you get a two-stroke penalty in stroke play. Always remove the flagstick when putting unless playing by the updated rule that allows leaving it in.

Keep Up the Pace

Always be ready to hit when it’s your turn—no endless practice swings. If you’re falling behind, let faster groups play through. Limit yourself to one or two practice swings before hitting.

Respect the Course

Fix your divots on the fairway. Repair your ball marks on the green (those little dents left by the ball landing). Rake the bunker after hitting out of the sand.

Be Quiet & Stay Out of the Way

No loud talking or unnecessary movement when someone is hitting. Stay behind or to the side of the player, never in their direct line of sight.

Dress Code & Course Rules

Many courses have a dress code (collared shirt, no jeans). Follow cart path rules—some courses require you to keep carts on paths or follow a 90-degree rule.

Par: The expected number of strokes to complete a hole.
Birdie (-1): One stroke under par.
Eagle (-2): Two strokes under par.
Bogey (+1): One stroke over par.
Double Bogey (+2): Two strokes over par.
Stroke Play vs. Match Play: Stroke play is total strokes over a round; match play is winning individual holes against an opponent.

Know when to pick up your ball – If you’re struggling, sometimes it’s best to pick up and move on.
Be mindful of other players – Keep quiet and don’t rush others.
Play smart – It’s not always about power; accuracy matters more.
Have fun! – Golf is meant to be enjoyable, so don’t stress too much.

Spotify Podcast Youtube Envelope