Simpler Rules: Rule 8

Rule 8: Advice; Indicating Line of Play 

8-1. Advice

During a stipulated round, a player must not: 

(i)   give advice to anyone in the competition playing on the course other than his partner, or  

(ii)  ask for advice from anyone other than his partner or either of their caddies.

 

8-2. Indicating Line of Play

a. Other Than on Putting Green

A player may have the line of play indicated to him by anyone, but no one may be positioned by the player on or close to the line or an extension of the line beyond the hole while the stroke is being made. Any mark placed by the player or with his knowledge to indicate the line must be removed before the stroke is made. 

Exception:  Flagstick attended or held up – see Rule 17-1. 

b. On the Putting Green

The player, his partner or either of their caddies may, before but not during the stroke, point out a line for putting, but in so doing the putting green must not be touched. A mark must not be placed anywhere to indicate a line for putting. 

PENALTY FOR BREACH OF RULE:

Match play – Loss of hole; Stroke play – Two strokes.

 

PENALTY FOR BREACH OF A COMPETITION CONDITION:

See Rule 33-1.8