What is the recommended response if a player's ball moves due to an external factor?

When a player's ball moves as a result of an external factor, the appropriate course of action is to rehit the ball from its original spot. This guideline is rooted in the understanding of the rules of golf which state that if a ball is moved by something outside the player's control—such as wind, water, or an animal—the player is not penalized and must return the ball to where it was originally situated before taking their next stroke.

This approach ensures fairness, as the player should not be at a disadvantage because of uncontrollable events impacting their position. By re-hitting from the original spot, the game retains its integrity, allowing players to continue their play without the influence of external elements affecting their scores or putting them at a disadvantage.