Modernizing Golf's Rules: ResourcesThe following documents serve to further explain golf's proposed new Rules.

Papers Charts Miscellaneous Downloadable Resources

Papers

Explanation for Each Major Proposed Change in the Rules of Golf for 2019

This paper gives you a detailed look at 30 major proposed changes, including the reasons behind why we've made these proposals.
Certain Topics or Proposals Not Addressed in the Proposed New Rules of Golf for 2019

Learn more about a number of suggestions we considered, some of which are still being discussed, and why we decided not to include them in the proposed new Rules.
A Brief History of Revisions to the Rules of Golf: 1744 to Present

This paper details the continuous evolution of the Rules that has occurred for nearly three centuries, and which is part of the game's tradition.
Discussions Relating to Stroke and Distance Relief

Learn more about the alternatives to stroke and distance that have been considered during this initiative. While none of these are in the proposed Rules, this topic remains a key area of continued discussion.
A Revised Approach to Writing and Presenting the New Rules for 2019

A major objective of this initiative is to make the Rules easier to understand and apply, and this paper explains how we've done that through the new writing style and format.

Charts

All Proposed Changes in Penalties in the New Rules of Golf for 2019

This chart identifies all of the proposed changes to penalties, including the many penalties that have been eliminated.
Major Proposed Changes in the New Rules of Golf for 2019

This chart identifies the changes expected to have the most impact on the game and to be of most interest to golfers and those who follow the game.
All Proposed Changes in Procedures and Outcomes in the New Rules of Golf for 2019

This chart lists all proposed changes to procedures and outcomes included in the proposed Rules. Each entry describes the proposed change and references the current and revised Rule numbers.
Proposed Changes in Definitions and Key Terms in the New Rules of Golf for 2019

Many terms are essential to understanding and applying the Rules. This chart shows how definitions and key terms have changed in the proposed new Rules.

Miscellaneous

Official Announcement

Read the full text of the joint announcement made by the USGA and The R&A on March 1, 2017, regarding the preview to golf's new Rules.
Sample Notice to Try Out Proposed Rules of Golf for 2019

We encourage all golfers to try out the proposed new Rules and let us know what they think. To help with this, we have created a sample rules sheet for your own use or to help in trying them out in an unofficial event. View PDF Download Customizable Word File