BROWSE HOW TOs

How to Practice Golf Etiquette on the Green

By eHow Sports & Fitness Editor

Rate: (6 Ratings)

Observing proper golf etiquette on the putting green gives each player a fair chance of putting his or her ball into the hole and keeps the game moving smoothly.

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Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

Golf Shirts
Golf Bags
Golf Balls
Golf Club Cleaners
Golf Clubs
Golf Gloves
Golf Hats
Golf Practice Equipment
Golf Shoes

Step1

Repair golf ball marks on the green even if they're not from your own ball.

Step2

Practice tapping down spike marks or bumps on the green after completion of putting out.

Step3

Observe the placement of all golf balls on the putting green. Keep away from the putting line (the line along which the ball travels to the hole) of other players.

Step4

Mark your golf ball with a ball marker to keep the green clean for other putters while you wait your turn.

Step5

Repair golf ball divots on the green with a ball-mark repair tool (see "How to Repair a Golf Ball Divot on the Putting Green," under Related eHows).

Step6

Allow the player whose ball is farthest away from the golf hole to putt first.

Step7

Offer to tend the flag while others are putting.

Step8

Line up your putt so you're ready to go when it's your turn.

Step9

Stand still and remain silent while group members are putting.

Tips & Warnings

Golf ball marks are the only obstacles that may be repaired on the golf green prior to completing the golf hole. Any other repairs result in a two-stroke penalty.
If you have any condition that would impair or limit your ability to engage in physical activity, please consult a physician before attempting this activity. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment.

Comments

Rosiogs said

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on 7/12/2007 And remember - don't clean your ball on the green itself - 2 shot penalty. Or touch the green to show a playing partner their line - 2 shot penalty.

Anonymous said

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on 8/8/2006 The first person to get in the hole should replace the flagstick after everyone putts out- over the course of a round, this can save a few minutes.

Anonymous said

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on 11/22/2005 If you are removing the flagstick, place it on the edge of the green, well away from the hole and all golf balls. Try not to place it directly beyond the hole from someone's ball, as it may affect their ability to "read" their putt.

Anonymous said

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on 11/22/2005 When tending the pin, be sure you do not interfere with the putting player's ability to "read" the putt. Do not stand directly behind the hole from the ball, and do not let your shadow fall over the line of the putt.

If possible (given the above), stand to the "high" side of the hole, so that if the putt misses, you have not been standing in the line of the remaining putt.