Ever seen a player meticulously line up a putt, only to slam their putter down in frustration after realizing their ball marker is... a rogue pebble? Don't let that be you.

Marking your ball on the green might seem like a no-brainer, but trust us, there's an art to it. Here at Fair Liar, we want you to look sharp and play smart, so let's avoid any unnecessary penalty strokes.

Marker Must-Haves:

Ditch the twigs and leaves (sorry, nature lovers!). Our motto? Artificial Only.  A trusty ball marker, a lucky coin, or even a spare tee all do the trick. Remember, the key is something that will stay put during your stroke and won't get mistaken for a delicious snack (looking at you, forgotten gum wrappers!).

Mark with Precision:

While the exact placement (front, back, or side) isn't crucial, consistency is key. Pick a spot that makes sense for you – behind the ball is a popular choice – and stick with it. This ensures you can confidently replace your ball exactly where it lay before.

The Pick-Up and Put-Down:

Here's where things can get confusing. Always mark your ball before picking it up. A one-stroke penalty awaits those who forget!  Similarly, remove your marker before putting it. Leaving it there might earn you some serious side-eye from your playing partners (and a penalty from the golf gods).

Marking Manners:

Remember, you're not the only one on the green.  Another player can request you mark your ball if it's in their way.  Be a good sport and treat it as an order.  Likewise, they might ask you to move your marker for a clear putt.  Use a fixed object (a tree works well) as a reference point to ensure an accurate move, one putter length at a time.

Marking is Optional (But Wise):

While not mandatory, marking your ball is a good habit.  It prevents accidental movement and keeps things fair for everyone. Plus, a well-placed marker can even help with putt visualization.

So ditch the confusion and channel your inner golfing pro. With these simple tips, you'll be marking your ball (and your style) like a champion in no time. Now get out there and conquer the course!