Marking the Ball on the green

Question
When it is my turn to putt,ou2 is it legal to just place my putterhead directly behind the ball and rotate the ball with my hand, then remove the putter and address the ball to putt?

Answer
Elaine,

Yes it is but it is not recommended.

20-1/16 Method Used to Mark Position of Ball

Q. The Note to Rule 20-1 provides that "the position of a ball to be lifted should be marked by placing a ball-marker, a small coin or other similar object immediately behind the ball." Is a player penalized if he uses an object that is not similar to a ball-marker or small coin to mark the position of his ball?

A. No. The provision in the Note to Rule 20-1 is a recommendation of best practice, but there is no penalty for failing to act in accordance with the Note.

Examples of methods of marking the position of a ball that are not recommended, but are permissible, are as follows:

?placing the toe of a club at the side of, or behind, the ball;

?using a tee;

?using a loose impediment;

Thanks for the question,

Michael