How to Behave While Someone Else is Golfing

Adhering to golf etiquette is important during casual and match play. Golf etiquette rules allow each golfer the best opportunity for a good golf match. Learn the basics of golf etiquette to show respect for your fellow golfers.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Flip a tee to determine the first golfer to tee off. The head of the tee points to the golfer who tees off first. Give the golfer plenty of space to swing the club and stand out of his view to avoid distraction.
2. Remain still while another player prepares to golf. Golf requires concentration and the smallest noise can cause an interruption. Whether the other golfer is making the attempt to tee off, putt or maneuver out of a bunker, don't fidget while you wait for your turn and don't speak to a golfer who is about to swing his club.
3. Wait for your turn to golf patiently. Be sure that other golfers are safely out of your way before you swing your club. No one should stand in a six foot perimeter around you and no one should be in the area where you plan to hit your ball. If you hit the ball and it is near another golfer, yell "four" to warn him of the incoming ball.
4. Stand out of the line of the ball when another player prepares to putt. Remove the flag for your partner when he attempts to putt and replace the flag carefully when the hole is finished.
5. Play golf at a good pace. If you lose a ball in the rough or out-of-bounds, take a few minutes to search for the ball. If you can't find it, take a drop and move along. If another group of golfers catch up to you while you look for a missing ball, let the group play through so you don't disturb their pace.
6. Use golf carts wisely. Operate the golf cart only when no player is about to hit the ball. Don't drive a golf cart directly in front of a golfer preparing to play.

Tips & Warnings

• Turn off electronic devices like cell phones and pagers while on the golf course as a courtesy to other golfers.