What are the basic rules of golf?
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While there are many nuances and specific rules in golf, here are some fundamental principles:
Objective[edit | edit source]
- To play a golf ball into a hole on a course using the fewest number of strokes.
Basic Gameplay[edit | edit source]
- Teeing Off: The first shot of a hole is typically played from an elevated area called a tee.
- Fairway: The area of closely mown grass between the tee and the green.
- Rough: The less manicured area surrounding the fairway.
- Hazards: Obstacles like bunkers (sand traps) and water hazards.
- Green: The putting surface where you putt the ball into the hole.
Order of Play[edit | edit source]
- The player farthest from the hole hits first.
Penalties[edit | edit source]
- Stroke Penalty: Added to your score for breaking a rule.
- Loss of Hole: In match play, losing the hole for severe rule violations.
General Rules[edit | edit source]
- Play the Ball as it Lies: Generally, you must play the ball from where it lands, with exceptions for hazards and unplayable lies.
- No Grounding Your Club: You cannot ground your club in hazards (like bunkers) or water.
- Repairing the Course: You should repair divots, rake bunkers, and fix ball marks on greens.
- Quiet and Courtesy: Maintain a quiet environment for other players.
Scoring[edit | edit source]
- Par: The standard number of strokes expected to complete a hole.
- Bogey: One stroke over par.
- Birdie: One stroke under par.
- Eagle: Two strokes under par.
- Albatross (or Double Eagle): Three strokes under par.
Note: These are just the basic rules. Golf has a comprehensive rulebook with many specific situations and exceptions.