You've been playing golf for a long time, you think it's time to improve your understanding of the Rules, and you decide to just start by reading The Rules of Golf cover to cover.  The odds are against you in both completing the task and really learning much that you will retain.  Instead, I would suggest you start by investing a $15.95 + S&H in purchasing Decisions on the Rules of Golf 2004-05 Edition.  This can be done by going to USGA.ORG, and following the links starting with catalogue.  If you are a techie you can also get a CD-ROM version for $16.00 + S&H, but I think you'll find the book more useful.  This book is 600 pages long and includes a 68 page index, The Rules of Golf, and all of the myriad decisions which back up the rules.

These decisions have been built up over a long period based on real, on course situations which have been referred to the USGA.  When you read just the text of a rule you sometimes miss some of the implications; when you read the decisions, you see actual cases of the rule being used in practice.  You also see how the rules relate to each other.

So with this book in hand, and nothing good on TV (usually the case) you are in a good position to start your quest for knowledge.

Interestingly enough, the Rules of Golf begins with a section on Etiquette.  I suspect this is not read too often, but it should be.  It is a reminder that golf is an honorable game, played with respect for the course and for other players.  I'm sure we've all observed cases where this has not been the case and these situations are not enjoyable.  This section was totally re-written in 2004.  I believe all players should study this section carefully as we get ready for the new season.

Following the section on Etiquette is a section covering Definitions.  To understand the Rules of Golf, you MUST understand the definitions.  And some of these definitions do not necessarily agree with the common meaning of the terms used.  For example, when a player addresses his ball and it rocks slightly but returns to its original place, the ball has clearly moved from the viewpoint of a physicist.  However, under the definition of "Move or Moved" you will find:

    A ball is deemed to have "moved" if it leaves its position and comes to rest in any other place.

Without understanding this definition, we would be in trouble when trying to under Rule 18, Ball at Rest Moved.  Note also that these definitions are often repeated under any rule to which they directly apply.

Another set of words to pay attention to are some basic English words which are very important under the Rules.  Pay very close attention to words like may (optional), should (strongly recommended), shall/must (penalty if not done), a ball (any ball), and the ball (the ball in play).  Misinterpreting should as may will get you in trouble and mistaking a ball for the ball may get you disqualified.

After studying the sections on Etiquette and Definitions, I would recommend studying the titles of Rules 1-34 as well as the groupings in which they are found.  The Rule Book of today is the result of a historic evolution which started in 1744.  And one of the most recent significant re-working of the book occurred in 1984 when the book in its current organization was produced.  And while there could be an argument made that some rules might have been placed in a different position, there is no question that the 1984 reorganization was a great gift to the study of the rules.

Both the Rule names and the Groupings names of the rules are important.  Under THE GAME Rules 1, 2, and 3 cover The Game itself, Match Play, and Stroke Play.  Look at the other Rule Groups and see how the lead up to actually Playing the Ball which starts with Rule 12.

And note that the biggest group of Rules begins with Rule 20 and concerns Relief Situations and Procedures.  This group of Rules is clearly the source of most rules situations you encounter on the course.

As you go from this early study into more detail, try to learn how to use the Index.  This index has been expanded significantly over the last few years, and, while it is not yet perfect,  it is the key to find the answers you want quickly.

If you've read this far, I suspect there is a good chance that you will take the next step.  Go for it; it can only improved your game, your scores, and your appreciation for the game.

Last Updated on 1/15/2006