Understanding Alternate Shot Format in Golf Explained

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Quick Answer

• Alternate shot in golf means you and your partner take turns hitting the exact same ball.
• You’ll alternate who tees off on odd-numbered holes versus even-numbered holes.
• It’s a team game, pure and simple, demanding communication and shared strategy.

Who This Is For

• Golfers looking to spice up their regular foursome with a different team dynamic.
• Anyone heading into a scramble or best-ball tournament who wants to understand other formats.

What to Check First

• Specific Competition Rules: Always, always confirm the exact rules for your particular event. Sometimes there are tweaks.
• Tee Box Assignments: Figure out who is teeing off on odd holes and who is teeing off on even holes. This is usually decided before you start.
• Scoring Method: How are you keeping score? It’s typically stroke play, counting every single shot your team takes with that one ball.
• Handicap Application: If handicaps are in play, know how they’ll be adjusted for the team. It can make a big difference.

Step-by-Step Plan for Playing Alternate Shot Golf

This format is a blast once you get the hang of it. Remember, communication is key.

1. Start the Hole: Player A tees off on odd holes; Player B tees off on even holes.

• What to look for: A solid drive that puts your team in a good position. Aim for the fairway, naturally.
• Mistake to avoid: Not adhering to the designated tee-off player. Stick to the odd/even rule like glue. It’s the foundation.

2. Second Shot: The partner of the player who teed off now hits the second shot from where the first ball landed.

• What to look for: Assess the lie of the ball and the distance to the green. Make a smart club selection based on your partner’s drive.
• Mistake to avoid: Hitting the wrong ball. Seriously, take a sec and confirm it’s yours. This is a costly error.

3. Continue Alternating: Keep taking turns hitting the same ball until it’s in the hole. You’ll be playing from fairway, rough, sand, you name it.

• What to look for: Maintain focus on the shot at hand. Your partner is counting on you to deliver. Stay present.
• Mistake to avoid: Forgetting whose turn it is. This can mess up the flow and lead to penalties if you accidentally hit out of turn.

4. Teeing Off on the Next Hole: The player who didn’t tee off on the previous odd hole will tee off on the next odd hole (and vice-versa for even holes). The alternation continues.

• What to look for: A strong start to the new hole, setting your partner up for success.
• Mistake to avoid: Reverting to the same tee-off player from the previous hole. You gotta switch it up based on the hole number.

5. On the Green: You’ll continue alternating putts until the ball is holed. This is where pressure mounts.

• What to look for: Good communication on reads and stroke selection. Discuss the line, the break, and the pace.
• Mistake to avoid: Not discussing the putt. Even if you’re the one putting, your partner might see something you don’t from their angle.

6. Managing the Ball: If the ball is lost or out of bounds, the team takes a penalty and plays from where the previous shot was taken.

• What to look for: Clear communication about the ball’s status and the correct procedure.
• Mistake to avoid: Not following the proper procedure for a lost ball or out-of-bounds. This means re-hitting from the previous spot and taking a penalty.

Common Mistakes in Alternate Shot Golf

This is where teamwork really shines, or falters. Pay attention here.

• Forgetting Whose Turn It Is — Why it matters: This can lead to incorrect ball striking and potential penalties if you hit out of turn. It also completely disrupts the rhythm and focus of the team. — Fix: Keep a mental checklist or use a small marker on your scorecard to track whose turn it is on each shot. A quick glance can save you.
• Hitting the Wrong Ball — Why it matters: This results in significant penalty strokes, usually two per infraction, and can seriously tank your score. It’s one of the most frustrating mistakes. — Fix: Always double-check the ball you’re about to hit. Confirm it’s your team’s ball before you even think about swinging.
• Inconsistent Strategy — Why it matters: Not having a general game plan can lead to poor shot choices, especially under pressure. You might end up playing shots you’re not comfortable with, leading to more errors. — Fix: Discuss a basic strategy before the round, like aiming for the center of the green or a specific side of the fairway. Be prepared to adjust based on the lie and conditions.
• Lack of Communication — Why it matters: Golf is hard enough alone. Trying to play alternate shot without talking to your partner is like trying to navigate a trail blindfolded. You need that synergy. — Fix: Talk about the lie, the wind, the putt, everything. Your partner is your teammate, not your opponent. Use them.
• Overthinking Your Partner’s Shot — Why it matters: Your partner made a shot. It is what it is. Second-guessing them constantly can lead to doubt and affect your own swing. — Fix: Accept your partner’s shot and focus on making the best of the situation from where the ball lies. Trust their ability.
• Not Discussing Club Selection — Why it matters: You might have a different club in mind than your partner. Not talking about it can lead to a surprise club selection and a missed shot. — Fix: Before you hit, quickly ask your partner what they think about club selection. It’s a shared decision.

FAQ

What is the primary difference between alternate shot and four-ball?

In alternate shot, you and your partner share one ball and take turns hitting it. It’s one score for the team on each hole. In four-ball, each player plays their own ball, and you take the best score between the two partners on each hole. So, two balls in play per team.

How is scoring handled in alternate shot golf?

Scoring is typically done using stroke play. Your team’s score for a hole is the total number of strokes it takes to get your shared ball into the hole. It’s a cumulative count of every single hit.

What happens if a player hits the wrong ball?

If a player hits the wrong ball, it usually results in a two-stroke penalty for the team. The original ball must then be replaced, and the player who hit the wrong ball must play the correct ball from where it originally lay. Always check the specific competition rules, as variations can exist.

Does the player who tees off on an odd hole also tee off on the next odd hole?

No. The alternation continues hole by hole. If Player A teed off on hole 1 (odd), Player B will tee off on hole 2 (even). Then, Player A will tee off on hole 3 (odd), and Player B on hole 4 (even), and so on. The player who tees off on an odd hole is the one who didn’t tee off on the previous odd hole. It’s a continuous flip.

Is alternate shot a good format for beginners?

It can be a great learning experience! It forces you to think strategically and rely heavily on your partner. While it can be challenging, especially when your partner leaves you in a tough spot, it’s also very rewarding and a fun way to improve your game and your partnership. Understanding Alternate Shot Format in Golf is a great first step to enjoying it.

What if my partner’s drive is in a terrible spot?

That’s part of the game, man. You play the ball where it lies. Your job is to make the best shot you can from that position, no complaining. It really tests your adaptability and mental game.

How important is club selection in alternate shot?

Extremely important. Since you’re alternating, you’re often hitting shots your partner might not have chosen or set up for. You need to be ready to adapt and make smart club choices based on the lie, the distance, and the overall situation. It’s a constant negotiation with the course.

What’s the etiquette around giving advice in alternate shot?

You can absolutely give advice to your partner! In fact, you should. That’s the whole point of the format. Discussing club selection, read on the green, or strategy is encouraged. It’s a team effort.

Sources:

• Understanding Alternate Shot Format in Golf