Some courses only have nine holes but most have a full eighteen hole layout. Reference to links instead of courses is made when describing a seaside course similar to those in Scotland where the game began (describes the area between beach and farmland).

The clubhouse is where all the action begins and ends. Somewhere in the clubhouse is the the Pro Shop. The Pro Shop houses the starter (there may be a separate starter's shack but most often this is located in the pro shop area of the clubhouse) and it is with the starter that all tee times are made.

Available at most Pro Shops are all the implements for the game. Gloves, hats, golf balls, clothing, or maybe you just need a few tees, a good shop will stock a satisfying variety of goods.

Most clubhouses also have a bar and restaurant. A perfect environment for sharing reflections on your game over a refreshing beverage.

Most golf courses are between 5000 and 7000 yards. The total yardage of a golf course is measured between the tee and pin, more on that later. Some courses are longer and others less.

Every hole will be either a par 3, par 4, or par 5. Par is the number of strokes (swings of the club at the ball) a skillful player would normally take before finishing the hole. For example, on a par 4 a player would count two strokes to land on the putting surface (putting green or just green) and then two putts. Two puts is considered standard on every green.

A par 3 would only require one stroke before landing on the green and a par 5 three. Par threes are the shortest holes on the course and par fives the longest. Par fours fall somewhere in between. Here are typical yardages for women.

Par 3 - 210 yards or less
Par 4 - 211 to 400 yards
Par 5 - 401 to 575 yards

There are different teeing areas at each hole so you can play from different lengths. It is common to find three or four areas for each hole. Most are color coded and help you remain consistent from hole to hole.

Gold tees are for the purest of players and typically set towards way back.

Blue tees are slightly ahead of the gold tees making the total yardage a bit less but still very difficult.

White tees are for everyday casual play and can be played by men or women.

Red tees are set forward and traditionally used by women and seniors.

There you have it. Next is what defines a real golfer.