Here is how to use a divot tool: repair a ball mark by working the surrounding turf gently toward the center, then smoothing the surface. Do not lever the center upward. A careful repair helps leave a usable putting surface for the players behind you.
This guide covers a conventional fork-style ball-mark repair tool. Follow the course’s instructions and the operating instructions for your selected tool. Choosing a model for a shop or event is a separate decision: see our folding versus fixed divot tool guide.
A ball mark and a fairway divot are different
Golfers often call this accessory a divot tool, but its familiar fork is used to repair the depression made by a ball landing on a putting green. A fairway divot is turf displaced by a club strike. A sand-and-seed mixture or replacing turf may be appropriate elsewhere on the course; do not assume the same treatment applies to the green.
| Situation | What to do |
|---|---|
| Ball indentation on the green | Use the course-recommended ball-mark repair technique |
| Displaced turf after a fairway shot | Follow the course policy for replacing turf or using its supplied mix |
| Large, unusual or uncertain damage | Ask course staff rather than experimenting |
Before you start
- Locate the actual ball mark; it may be some distance from where the ball stopped.
- Let other players know before stepping into an area where they are preparing to putt.
- If the tool folds, open it according to its instructions and check that it is ready to use.
- Keep your fingers clear of the prongs and use a controlled, gentle movement.
Repair the mark in three stages
1 · Start at the edge
Place the prongs into the turf just outside the indentation. Begin with the surrounding turf, not by digging into the center.
2 · Work inward
Move the displaced turf gently toward the middle. Work around the mark as needed rather than trying to lift it in one motion.
3 · Smooth the surface
After closing the depression, gently tap the surface with the putter sole to level the repair.
The diagrams show the direction of work, not a prescribed tool depth or scale. The USGA advises moving surrounding turf inward and avoiding the upward levering motion that can damage roots. See the USGA ball-mark repair guidance for the course-care reference.
Common mistakes and how to avoid them
| Mistake | Better approach |
|---|---|
| Prying the middle upward | Bring surrounding turf toward the center |
| Making one forceful movement | Use several gentle adjustments around the edge |
| Leaving a raised mound | Check the finished surface and tap it level gently |
| Using the tool as a cleaning pick or lever | Keep use within the tool’s intended functions |
| Putting an open fork straight into a pocket | Close or protect the prongs as its design requires |
Folding, pop-up and fixed tools: the handling differences
The course-care goal stays the same, but the opening and storage sequence changes. A fixed fork is immediately accessible and needs protected storage. A folding design needs to be opened and closed deliberately. A pop-up release can be convenient, but check the release and keep the moving fork clear of your fingers.
PASSEN’s folding tool overview and pop-up tool overview explain the configurations to review. A magnetic marker is a separate component to check; it does not change the turf-repair technique. Confirm whether the quoted tool includes the marker before planning a gift pack.
Clean, close and put it back
Remove loose turf after use without forcing soil into a hinge or release. Follow the material and mechanism care instructions, allow the tool to dry as appropriate, and put it in a consistent accessible place. Check that a removable marker is seated before storing the tool. A small pouch can keep the accessory separate from keys and loose change.
Make the instructions useful in a player gift pack
A simple insert can show the inward motion, remind the player to smooth the surface, and explain how the selected tool opens and closes. Match the illustration to the supplied model. Have the course review the technique before printing a large quantity of cards; a clear instruction is more useful than a long list of advertised functions.
Frequently asked questions
What is a divot tool used for?
A conventional fork-style tool is commonly used to repair a ball mark on a putting green. Follow the course’s guidance for other types of turf damage.
Should I push inward or lift upward?
Work the surrounding turf toward the center. Avoid levering the center upward.
Where do the prongs go?
Start just outside the indentation and work around its edge as needed. The diagrams are directional examples, not a fixed insertion-depth specification.
How do I finish the repair?
Once the depression is closed, gently smooth the surface with the sole of a putter.
Does a folding tool use a different repair method?
The turf-repair objective is the same. Opening, closing and storage depend on the actual tool design.
Is a magnetic ball marker included with every tool?
No. Check the specific model and quotation for included components.
Plan a custom accessory program
For a club, shop or tournament, send the product type, quantity per SKU, artwork, packaging and delivery destination. PASSEN offers free samples. Standard orders start at 200 per SKU; logo, color or packaging customization starts at 500 per SKU. Sets are counted as sets. Different SKUs do not combine to meet the minimum.
Explore ball markers and divot tools or plan coordinated golf gifts.