When is a player not allowed to ask or give advice?

A player is not allowed to ask for or give advice throughout the entire game during official competitions, as per the rules of golf. This prohibition is in place to maintain the integrity of the game and ensures that players rely on their own skills and judgment. Advice can cover a wide range of information, including how to play a shot or strategies for a given hole, and allowing it would create an uneven playing field and could disrupt the flow and fairness of the competition.

The rules state that players can talk to caddies and authorized individuals about equipment, but advice regarding play from fellow competitors is not permitted. This rule is different in casual rounds, where players might share advice more freely without the pressures of competition. Therefore, the entire duration of play in an official context is when the restriction applies, making it crucial to understand this aspect of the rules in competitive environments.