Golf has always been known as a gentleman’s sport. It is governed by both a set of unwritten rules and the official rule book. The unofficial rules should be strictly observed to maintain the value of the sport.

Here are some golf etiquette tips that every player should follow.

  1. Avoid causing distractions. Golf requires a certain degree of concentration so any kind of distraction would be rude.The Official Exceptions to the Rules of Golf

    Avoid bringing electronic devices along that would cause noise such as cellular phones or beepers. If necessary, bring them along but put them in silent mode. If you need to take a call, make sure that the other players will not hear even a whisper of your conversation.

    Refrain from distracting the person who is taking his turn. Keep gestures to a minimum. You may talk to the player once he finishes his swing. You must even avoid talking or whispering to another person as this can also destroy his concentration. Better refrain from giving side comments too. Do not stand too near the one taking his turn. Not only could you serve as a big distraction, you could be hit with a golf club. And that could end the game.

  2. Don’t be a know-it-all: Give advice only when you are asked for it. Even warnings such as what to watch out for in the next hole would not really be appreciated, as some golfers like the challenge of figuring out how to play each hole.
  3. Use golf carts properly: You may use golf carts but make sure you only use them in areas where they are allowed.
  4. Dress appropriately: Make sure you are dressed for golf. You may call the golf country club or administration ahead of time to ask what the proper dress code for them is and make sure that you comply.
  5. Arrive on time: Tee-off schedules are very tight and so it is only proper to start on time as there are others who also waiting to play. If someone in your group will be late, inform the person in charge of scheduling so he can make the necessary adjustments.
  6. Practice on the driving range not the course: Limit your practice swings to only one or two. Remember there are other players waiting for their turn, and even other groups waiting to play at the same hole. It would be inconsiderate if you took a long time practicing your swing. Besides, that’s what driving ranges are for.
  7. Leave the course as you found it: If you accidentally remove a patch of dirt, make sure you replace or repair it or get it back somehow. Avoid running, stomping your feet, or doing anything of that sort. The greens are quite soft and causing dents in the carpet can affect where the ball would roll to.
  8. Give warnings: If you feel that your ball may cause damage to others due to the swing’s projectile and force, do not be shy to shout “Fore!” Even objects as small as golf balls can cause serious injury.
  9. Relax and enjoy the game: Golf was never meant to be a tense game. So keep your pace slow and easy, and don’t be anxious in moving ahead. Even if the group ahead of you is slow, resist the urge to “overtake” as this would be very rude.
  10. Keep your cool: Behavior on the golf course is strongly associated with your general behavior. Send your golf clubs flying and you can say goodbye to potential personal or even business relationships.