The Tools

There are several items you can use to mark your ball. I prefer using the magnetic marker that comes with a divot tool, it's easy to find in my pocket. Many golfers like the button that comes with a golf glove, others like a quarter or dime. What mark to use is a personal preference and not as important as how you mark your ball. Below are a few examples of ball marking options.

The No-nos

I've observed players who believe they are "getting one over" on their opponents by marking their ball in front (placing the marker between the ball and the hole), giving themselves an advantage by replacing their ball in front of the marker, as shown in fig.1 (ball marked) and fig.2 (ball replaced) below.

Players who use this maneuver think they are really slick, but the facts are different. The truth is, whether they are told or not, they are labeled as cheaters and everything they do from that point is questioned. The second effect from this attempted deception is on their playing partners. It's an insult to the partner's intelligence, "Does he really think that I'm that stupid, that I didn't see what he just did?". The best thing to do is not even try it, you're not gaining enough of an advantage to repair the damage to your reputation.

Proper ball marking on the green

The proper place to mark your ball before lifting is directly behind your ball, the line from your marker to the cup should run directly through the center of your ball. Fig.3 shows the improper mark, slightly to one side, and Fig.4 shows the correct placement.

Am I in your way?

There will be times when your mark will be in the line or stance of another player. If this happens to you use your head, the head of your putter that is. Place your putter on one side of your ball and your marker on the opposite side of the putter head, as pictured below. If this is not enough relief use the length of your putter's grip. If that's not enough relief, your playing partner should not have had you move it in the first place. Oops! Did I say that out loud? Sorry.
Below is a photo of proper relief.(Fig.5)

Not on the green

The fairway is huge but still your ball has chosen a part of it that is one inch from another players ball. This is a good place to use the tee to mark your spot. Agree between yourself and your opponent the proper place to mark your spot, that is not in the way of their shot, and place a tee in the ground. After they have hit, replace your ball.

"But wait! My opponent has hacked up a huge divot where my ball was." Not to worry, the USGA knows all and sees all. They have a rule for just such an occasion.

USGA Rule 20-3,b.:  If the original lie of a ball to be placed or replaced has been altered:
(i): except in a hazard, the ball shall be placed in the nearest lie most similar to the original lie which is not more than one club-length from the original lie, not nearer the hole and not in a hazard;

Golf is a game of etiquette and knowing the rules.

Play often, Play fair and above all, HAVE FUN!.

I love this game!

Duffy