Rules of Golf 2012-2015 Pocket Edition - The R&A

10
How to Use the Rule Book
Know the Definitions
There are over fifty defined terms (e.g. abnormal ground condition, through
the green, etc) and these form the foundation around which the Rules
of Play are written. A good knowledge of the defined terms (which are
italicised throughout the book) is very important to the correct application
of the Rules.
The Facts of the Case
To answer any question on the Rules you must consider the facts of the
case in some detail. You should identify:
• The form of play (e.g. match play or stroke play, single, foursome
or four-ball)
• Who is involved (e.g. the player, his partner or caddie, an outside agency)
• Where the incident occurred (e.g. on the teeing ground, in a bunker or
water hazard, on the putting green)
• What actually happened
• The player’s intentions (e.g. what was he doing and what does he
want to do)
• The timing of the incident (e.g. has the player now returned his score
card, has the competition closed)
Refer to the Book
As stated above, reference to the Rule book Index and the relevant Rule
should provide the answer to the majority of questions that can arise on the
course. If in doubt, play the course as you find it and play the ball as it lies.
On returning to the Clubhouse, refer the matter to the Committee and it
may be that reference to the “Decisions on the Rules of Golf” will assist in
resolving any queries that are not entirely clear from the Rule book itself.