What Is the Golden Rule of Golf? Basic Rules of Golf

A golden rule in golf is to play the ball as it lies. You can’t move the ball or alter its lie. Failure to do so will result in a penalty.

Scoring

The rule of 70 means if a golfer takes 70 strokes, the score is -2, or "two under par". Scores are totalled relative to par in each round.

Technique and Etiquette

Golf relies on skill for swing technique and training. But luck affects bounces, like when a ball bounces out of a hazard.

To hit a golf ball, the distance from shoulders to ball must be the same at address and impact. Repetition develops consistency.

Rule 6-7 means play without delay and follow pace guidelines. A group is out of position when taking too long per the guidelines.

Rule 9.1 means you must play your ball at rest on the course.

Groups should be attentive and courteous, following etiquette like allowing faster groups to play through. The golden rule means considering how your actions affect others.

On the Green

Debris on a ball affects how it rolls. Balls can’t be cleaned in the fairway, only on the green. If moved in the fairway, replace with a penalty.

On the green, golfers use a small peg to slightly elevate the ball for the first stroke. After that shots must be played "as it lies" per the golden rule. If a shot is unplayable, rules allow other options.

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