Learn Golf Etiquette Tips The Simple Way

Golf is a game of tradition and respect. Learning and applying the basic golf etiquette tips helps you really appreciate the legacy of the game. The following article outlines the most important golf etiquette concepts you should follow.

As a basic rule of thumb, golf is a game of common courtesy. Treat your playing partners – whether you know them or not – the way you’d like to be treated.

Still unsure about golf etiquette tips? Here’s a listing of the most important…

#1 – Be Quiet!

Golf is hard enough without having to concentrate through chatter and banter. Whenever you’re near a golfer, even if they’re not in your group, avoid talking. Stop mid-sentence if you have to. Wait until the player hits and continue your conversation.

#2 – Be On Time!

Don’t keep your foursome waiting on the tee (or worse, bumped from position) because you overslept, got lost, forgot your clubs, or whatever the excuse may be. Show up to the course with a few minutes to spare. This will allow your foursome a chance to get situated before the round.

#3 – Don’t Cheat!

The word cheating is such an ugly word. Many of us during the course of a round have taken a mulligan, improved our lie in the rough or taken a do-over putt. When scores count, play the game by the rules. Even in very casual rounds, most golfers appreciate it when your count all of your shots.

#4 – Play Quickly!

Golf has become such a time consuming game. Don’t add to the trauma by crawling around the course. Between the tee and green play ready-golf. As politely as possible, encourage the slower members of your group to speed things up. Your group can only play as fast as your slowest player.

#5 – Grow Up!

Don’t act like a five year old on the golf course. Golf is frustrating and cursing is common – just keep it quiet! Want to throw a club? Stash it in your bag instead. Nothing cries “I’m an idiot” more than someone who throws golf clubs. Do you really think it’s the club’s fault?

#6 – Stand Out of the Way!

If at all possible, avoid standing directly behind someone who is hitting. It can really be distracting to see someone out of the corner of your eye. Same goes with putting. On the putting green, also avoid standing behind the hole in a straight line with the person putting.

#7 – Fix Your Divots!

If you’ve ever tried to hit out of a divot, you know how frustrating it can be. Help keep the course in good shape by always replacing or filling in your divots. On the greens, make sure to fix your ball marks and tap down any spike marks.

#8 – Don’t Give Lessons!

Unless somebody asks you, avoid giving swing tips or lessons. This annoys the hell out of most golfers. However, if somebody does ask you for advice, by all means – give it to them. But only in moderation and only if you know what the heck you’re talking about!

#9 – Shake Hands!

At the end of each round, shake your playing partners’ hands. Tell them how much you enjoyed the round. This isn’t a critical golf etiquette tip but it does help build camaraderie.

#10 – Know The Rules!

Although golf has its fair share of rules, take the time to learn them. If you’re confused on any of the rules, ask your local professional to explain them to you. The rules of golf are part of an important tradition. Respecting these rules is a great golf etiquette tip.

We’ve all had bad experiences playing golf with rude and benevolent people. Appreciate the entire game of golf by improving your skills and golf course manners. By applying the golf etiquette tips outlined in this article you and your playing partners will have a better playing experience.

You can find more golf pointers and golf etiquette tips here.