Who wrote "Golf for Dummies"?

Gary McCord wrote “Golf for Dummies.” The professional golfer, instructor, and longtime CBS golf commentator was the primary author of the book, first published in 1996. It introduced beginners to golf’s rules, equipment, swing fundamentals, course etiquette, and practical ways to improve.

McCord brought unusual credibility to the project. Born in 1948, he played more than 400 PGA Tour events and later won twice on the PGA Tour Champions circuit. His broadcasting style was known for humor and plainspoken explanations, qualities that suited the approachable “For Dummies” format.

A small point of confusion is that some editions and listings also credit collaborators, including John Huggan or Steve Keipert. Those contributors were associated with particular editions or publishing versions, but Gary McCord remains the recognizable primary author and the canonical answer to this trivia question.

McCord also wrote “Just a Range Ball in a Box of Titleists” and appeared as himself in the 1996 golf film “Tin Cup.” His connection to golf instruction continued through the Kostis/McCord Learning Center in Scottsdale, Arizona.