Golf has unwritten rules that matter as much as the real ones. Learn these and you'll be welcome in any group.
Keep pace of play
Be ready to hit when it's your turn, limit practice swings, and keep up with the group ahead (not just ahead of the group behind). If you're holding people up, wave faster groups through.
Play safe
Never swing or hit when someone could be in range. Shout "fore!" if your ball heads toward other people. Stand clear and quiet while others swing.
Care for the course
Replace divots, rake bunkers after you use them, and fix your ball marks on the green. Leave the course better than you found it.
Respect the green
Don't walk through another player's putting line, don't stand where you cast a shadow over their line, and keep still while they putt. Small courtesies, big difference.
Be a good partner
Stay positive, help look for lost balls, and keep phone use minimal. Good etiquette makes the game better for everyone — and gets you invited back. Now go work on breaking 100.
FAQ
What is the most important rule of golf etiquette?
Pace of play. Be ready to hit, keep up with the group ahead, and let faster groups play through — slow play is the biggest etiquette complaint.
What should you not do on a golf course?
Don’t swing when others are in range, walk through someone’s putting line, leave bunkers unraked or divots unfilled, or hold up the groups behind you.