Ball Identification and Lost Balls
Form a habit of marking your golf balls or taking note of the ball brand you are using to avoid confusion during play. If you hit the ball into a hazard area or wayward region, watch it land for easy tracing. Similarly, watch the balls of other players and assist in the ball-finding process, and they might return the favor.
Putting Lines
When a player is attempting to putt, don’t stand in their line of sight either ahead or behind them. You should note each player’s putting line and be careful not to step on it. When a golfer is about to play, don’t stand directly behind the hole, or close to or directly behind the ball, as your shadow might distract them.
Tee Boxes
Most golf courses establish varying course lengths from different tees as a way to accommodate players of all skill levels and even out the playing field. You should always choose the correct tee box for your skill level, and avoid falling into the trap of copying more experienced golfers.
Slower Players
Slow golf sucks! The rule of thumb on the course is to follow the group ahead of you closely and avoid blocking the group behind you. If you realize that your group is relatively slow, allow faster players behind you to play through if there is sufficient room.
Dress Code
In most golf clubs, you cannot just wear anything you wish. The most common dress code for men is a tucked-in collared shirt and no jeans or denim. Women also need to adhere to some minimum dressing standards depending on the course.
Give Warning of Wayward Shots
Sometimes even the most experienced golfers hit wayward shots. If you realize your ball is headed towards another group on the course, yell “FORE” loudly to warn players of the incoming ball. Failure to do so might rub other players the wrong way.
Wrapping Up
Mastering the rules of golf etiquette might take some getting used to, especially for a new golfer, and so you should forgive yourself when you slip up. Important tips to remember include not walking in another player’s line of sight, not talking in someone’s swing, and yelling ‘FORE’ to warn other players of wayward shots. Observing golf etiquette will lead to a friendlier and more enjoyable experience on the course.