Terms
Every golfer needs to know a few basic terms for golf.
They are:
hook-when the ball turns from right to left in the air
slice-when the ball turns from left to right in the air
draw-same as a hook but less severe
fade-same as a slice but less severe
pull-shot hit straight left
push-shot hit straight right
par-taking the amount of strokes to end the hole that is
recommended
birdie-taking one less stroke to end the hole than the
amount of strokes recommended
eagle-taking two less strokes to end the hole than the
amount of strokes recommended
double eagle-taking three less strokes to end the hole than
the amount of strokes recommended
bogey-taking one more stroke to end the hole than the amount
of strokes recommended
double bogey-taking two more strokes to end the hole than
the amount of strokes recommended
triple bogey-taking three more strokes to end the hole
than the amount of strokes recommended
quadruple bogey-taking four more strokes to end the hole
than the amount of strokes recommended
Etiquette
Etiquette is possibly more important than knowing the
rules of golf. Every person is expected to follow a certain code of
golf etiquette. Since etiquette can vary from club to club, I have
put together a list of universal etiquette that should be followed at
all times while on the golf course.
- Before swinging, first check to see if anyone is standing close by
or is in a psition where they could be hit by the ball, the club, or
any stones, pebbles, or twigs that could be moved during the swing.
- The person who had the lowest score on the previous hole has the
right to tee off first on the next hole.
- Do not move, talk, or stand close or directly behind the ball or
hole when a player is addressing the ball or making a stroke.
- Do not play until the players in front of you are out of range.
- Try to play without delay if it is at all possible.
- Play a provisional ball if you think your ball has flown out-of-bounds.
- Immediately leave the putting green when everyone has finished
putting and the flagstick has been properly placed in the hole.
- Invite faster players to play through.
- After hitting a shot out of a bunker, you should fill up and smooth
over any holes and footprints made in the sand.
- Repair all damage done by you to a green such as divots, ball marks,
and spike damage.
- Replace divots made in fairways if it is at all possible.
- Avoid use of profane language during tournament or casual play.
