If you're new to golf, keep reading for a very basic understanding of the rules of the sport. Once you have these fundamentals down, you should be able to get through a game of golf. Please note that this summary of the basic rules of golf shouldn't be considered official or as a means of settling disputes. For that, consult a full copy of the rules available online through the USGA or R&A.



Rule 1: The Game (Layout)

- The course holes (1-9 or 1-18) are played in order.

- Players must play by the rules.

Rule 2: Match Play (Game Version)

- In the match play version of golf, each hole is played as a separate contest. So, if you win the first hole by having the least number of strokes on that hole, then you are ?one-up.? Consequently, if you lose it, then you are ?one-down.? If the hole is tied, you are ?all-square.?

- The game is won once one player wins the majority of holes.

Rule 3: Stroke Play (Most Common Game Version)

- The golfer with the lowest total score (number of strokes) for the round (that is, over all the holes) is the winner.

- Every player's ball must be played into the hole before they can begin the next hole.

- Match play and stroke play cannot be played at the same time.

Rule 4/5: Clubs and Balls (Equipment)

- The maximum number of permitted clubs is fourteen.

- Unless the rules allow for it, you may not change your ball during the course of playing a hole.

Rule 6: Player's Responsibilities (Behavior)

- Read the notices posted by tournament officials.

- Use the correct handicap.

- Be ready to start at the correct tee time.

- Have a clearly identifiable ball.

- Keep a correct score and sign your score card before turning it in.

- Never unduly delay play or other players.

Rule 7: Practice

- Players may not hit practice shots while playing a hole.

Rule 8: Advice on the Course

- During play, players may not ask one another for or give advice on how to play a particular shot. You may only ask your caddy or partner.

- Players cannot use markers to line up a shot.

Rule 9: Announcing Your Score

- If your opponent asks, you must always be able to tell him the number of strokes that you've taken, including penalties.

Rule 10: Order of Players

- The player who has won the previous hole or had the lowest score on the previous hole, has ?the honor? of going first on the next hole.

- Once playing a hole, the player whose ball is furthest from the hole goes first.

Again, these are the very basics of golf. There are hundreds of rules that fit into the 100+ page booklet of official golf rules. Before you set out for a real game of golf, make sure you understand about playing a ball as it lies, behavior on the putting green, tackling hazards and other rule nuances.