by Marc Shapiro

Created on: February 17, 2007   Last Updated: May 14, 2007

Course Management is the Key to Lower Golf Scores

When a player shoots 120, there is typically a lot of room for improvement in the mechanics of the golf swing. Fixing inconsistencies in stance, setup, grip, alignment and ball-striking will help a beginning player improve immensely.

As scores improve, the amount of variance in your swing will become less of an issue, and Course Management will be the likely reason your scores drop. Better golfers think their way around the course. Here are three tips to help you think your way to lower scores.

1) Plan Your Tee Shot.
Just grabbing the driver and taking your mightiest swing is the hallmark of the high handicapper. Rather than just bombing away off the tee, take time to look at the layout of the hole and choose a target that gives you the best chance of success if you hit it where you are aiming, and penalizes you the least if you are off by a bit. Hit away from traps and hazards, and do not count on hitting the perfect shot every time you prepare to take your shot.

2) Plan Your Approach Shot.
Look at the pin placement on the green. If it is tucked behind a trap or hazard, aim to the center of the green and safety rather than trying to hit it right at the hole. Doing this will put you in position to do well, while taking danger out of play. Though you may be faced with a longer first putt, at least you won't have to hit out of a sandtrap!

3) Lag Putt For Success
When putting, aim for a three-foot circle around the hole. Roll your putt to try and stop not more than 18 inches from the cup - speed is everything, and alignment will come with practice. If you make a long putt - great! But if you hit it the right speed given conditions such as uphill/downhill slope, grain, and break, you will never be more than a tap-in away from a two putt.

Golf is a thinking game, and if you want to lower your scores, planning your tee shot, planning your approach to the green, and learning to lag putt for success are three quick ways to think your way around the course and improve your game.

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