Individual entries The rules of golf presented in A-Z alphabetical format in 250 entries of key words, phrases and procedures, so instead of having to look up rule numbers and indexes you can simply and easily find all the relevant information concisely under its appropriate alphabetical heading. What is it? A simple definition section explaining the meaning of each entry. Basic rules As the heading implies, it gives the basic rules which apply to the entry. Penalty The penalty you incur if you get the basic rules or procedure wrong. Alphabetical listing Each of the alphabetical entries is also listed numerically within its letter (e.g. a12, w7) to facilitate ease of access to any cross referenced entries. For example, the relevant procedure may require you to drop a ball as part of the relief procedure, so you will be referred to 'd16 Dropping the ball' if you need to know the relevant considerations about how to drop the ball.

Exceptions Because of the complexity of the rules of golf there are numerous exceptions to the basic rules, procedures and penalties so where appropriate you will find them listed under the heading for each entry. Where there have been decisions published by the R & A / USGA explaining certain rules or procedures these are noted by a leter against the relevant part of the entry and the decision is summarised by the corresponding letter in a coloured circle.

Procedure Sets out the practical considerations of what you should actually do or not do in the given situation, and how to rectify a mistake - for example, exactly how to drop the ball and what you should do if you do it wrongly.