What to do when teeing off

Your first shot off the tee will set the stage for everything else that happens on that hole. If the ball bounces happily down the center of the fairway some three hundred yards in the distance, it'll probably be a good hole. It's important to get everything right at the outset. First, observe proper etiquette. Most courses prohibit carts in the tee area, so park on the path. Don't do anything that might distract other players who are driving, and be ready when your turn comes. Next, choose your ball placement. The tee box is the only place on the course where you have any discretion over this. The ball can't be placed in front of the tee markers, but you can put it up to two club-lengths behind them. If the area is marked up with divots from previous players, you'll want to pick a smooth spot, both for your ball and your stance. The next concern is safety. Make sure everybody in your party is far enough away before beginning your swing, and that there are no other groups on the fairway ahead. When you're satisfied that everything is just the way you want it, it's time to try for that perfect fairway drive.