Golf 101: What Exactly Is a Tee and Why It Matters

If you’re new to golf, you’ve probably heard the term tee tossed around quite a bit. While it may seem like just another piece of jargon, the tee plays a key role in how the game is played. Understanding what a tee is—and how it’s used—is a fundamental step in learning the sport.

What Is a Tee?

In golf, a tee refers to both a small device and a specific area of the course.

1. The Device
   A golf tee is a small peg, usually made of wood or plastic, used to elevate the golf ball slightly off the ground. It’s primarily used for the first stroke on each hole—known as the tee shot—making it easier for players to drive the ball with greater distance and accuracy.

2. The Tee Box (Teeing Ground)
   This is the designated area where a hole begins. It’s a rectangular zone, marked by tee markers, from which players must take their first shot. Depending on your skill level or the type of competition, you might use different sets of tee boxes—often color-coded for juniors, amateurs, and professionals.

When Do You Use a Tee?
A tee is typically used only for the first shot of each hole, whether you’re driving from a par-3, par-4, or par-5. After that, the ball is played from where it lands, without the use of a tee.

The golf tee was patented in 1899, and before that, players would mound up a bit of sand to lift the ball off the ground.

Though small, the golf tee is a powerful tool in every golfer’s game. Whether you’re just starting or aiming to refine your skills, knowing how and when to use a tee is essential for improving your performance on the course.