Feel comfortable on the putting green.

On the green, small habits protect both the surface and another player’s concentration.

Watch the line

The putting line is the route someone expects the ball to roll. Walk around it, keep your shadow out of the way where practical, and pause while a player makes a stroke. An accidental step across a line is not automatically a penalty.

Mark clearly

When allowed, place a marker immediately behind or beside the ball before lifting it. Replace the ball on its original spot and remove the marker before putting. If asked to move a marker, use a fixed reference and reverse the process afterward.

Manage the flagstick

A player may putt with the flagstick in or out. Ask before removing it. Place it carefully without dropping it onto the surface, then return it when the group finishes.

Finish and move on

In regular stroke play, hole out. In match play, a putt can be conceded by an opponent. Leave the green promptly when your group finishes.