Golf Rules: Play Two Golf Balls

It is nearly impossible for a golfer to know the details and exact procedures for every rule in the massive golf rule book.  The only people who do know them all likely work for the USGA, the R&A, or the PGA Tour! Often times during a round we encounter a situation in which we are unsure how to proceed.  One player may think a drop with no penalty is appropriate but another in the same group disagrees, saying the drop would only be possible under a penalty situation.  Local rules can come into play too, times when the course has a custom rule setup for their specific reasons. A good idea is to keep a copy of the Rules of Golf in one's golf bag, or a digital version of it in one's mobile phone or tablet.  But even then the player might not be able to find the exact situation or ruling in a reasonable amount of time. Two Balls When in doubt as to how to proceed in a situation like this, it is best to play two balls.  Play the original ball through and finish the hole with it.  Also play a second dropped ball in the manner one thinks is appropriate.  Record both scores on the scorecard. At the end of the round the player will then have the time to research the ruling by checking the rules of golf, or by communicating with the pro at the local course or perhaps the associations board members. In the event that the same score is recorded with both balls the discussion and research is a moot point, but it may still be good to find out the correct ruling in the event that the same situations arises in the future. In short, when it doubt, play two balls and settle the questions later after the round.  Don't hold up play!