The object of golf is to put the ball in the hole with a few strokes as possible and like any other sport there are rules you have to follow.

• Each player may only carry no more than 14 clubs. Bringing more could be penalty so count your clubs before heading out to the course.

• There are 18 holes in a golf course that must be played no more than 4 hours.

• Typically, drawing lots determine who gets to hits first but as a sign of sportsmanship you can let other players hit before you. The first hitter on the succeeding holes is the one that scored the lowest in the previous hole.

• When teeing, you should stand two club lengths away from the marker. If you tee outside the area, you may be given a two-stroke penalty (during a stoke game) and then replay the stroke. During a match play, your opponents get to decide whether you strike again, this time within the area.

• Once the ball lies on the ground, do not touch it unless the stipulation says otherwise. However, when your ball hits the green you can take it but make sure you place a marker on the exact same spot. If the ball is removed on the spot by someone besides you and your caddy, you won’t incur any penalty.

• Use the head of the club to hit the ball. If you hit the ball more than once in a single stroke, it counts as two as penalty.

• You cannot practice a stroke once it’s your turn. You may only practice a swing during a hole or practice a stroke between holes on the previously played hole.

These are just some of the basic rules you should follow so you can learn to play golf without incurring unnecessary penalties during a game.