11/03/2026
When I’m teaching my Golf Rules clinics I like to explain the difference between “must,” “may,” and “should.”
Many golfers think that putting a unique mark on their provisional ball is required, but the rules say that you “should“ do that.
Now, you “must” announce you’re playing a provisional, but you are not required to put a unique mark on it or tell anyone what the unique mark is. But it certainly is a very good idea. Rule 18.3
Listen and watch for the words “must,” “may,” and “should” when learning the rules.
Has the provisional ball rule caused confusion in your rounds?