Definitions
All defined terms are in italics and are listed alphabetically in
the Definitions section – see pages 23-35.

1-1. General
The Game of Golf consists of playing a ball with a club from
the teeing ground into the hole by a stroke or successive
strokes in accordance with the Rules.

1-2. Exerting Influence on Ball
A player or caddie must not take any action to influence
the position or the movement of a ball except in accordance
with the Rules.
(Removal of movable obstruction – see Rule 24-1)

Note: In the case of a serious breach of Rule 1-2, the
Committee may impose a penalty of disqualification.
1-3. Agreement to Waive Rules
Players must not agree to exclude the operation of any Rule or
to waive any penalty incurred.

Match play – Disqualification of both sides;
Stroke play – Disqualification of competitors concerned.
(Agreeing to play out of turn in stroke play – see Rule 10-2c)
1-4. Points Not Covered by Rules
If any point in dispute is not covered by the Rules, the decision
should be made in accordance with equity.