The basics in 1 minute

The aim

Play your ball from the tee into the hole with as few strokes as possible, following the course and competition rules.

Scoring

Stroke play compares total strokes, including penalties. Match play compares holes won rather than the total score. Handicap adjustments and alternative formats can change how results are calculated.

Key rules

• Normally play the ball as it lies and the course as you find it.
• Move, lift or drop a ball only when the rules allow it.
• Count required penalties honestly; lost balls and out-of-bounds balls have specific relief procedures.