Golf Course Reading

Slope Analysis Techniques

• • Walk around putt from multiple angles
• • Look from behind the ball and hole
• • Check the low point of the green
• • Find the "fall line" (steepest slope)
• • Read grain direction (bermuda grass)
• • Consider green speed and firmness
• • Factor in recent weather conditions

Visual Reading Tips

• • Plumb bob for vertical reference
• • Feel slope with your feet
• • Look for water runoff patterns
• • Observe other players' putts
• • Check green from approach shot
• • Use surroundings for perspective
• • Trust your first read

Slope Awareness

• • Sidehill lies affect ball flight
• • Ball above feet = draws/hooks
• • Ball below feet = fades/slices
• • Uphill lies = higher trajectory
• • Downhill lies = lower trajectory
• • Plan for slope compensation

Yardage Optimization

• • Know your preferred distances
• • Avoid awkward yardages
• • Consider pin position
• • Factor in wind direction
• • Plan for course conditions
• • Use course guide effectively

Angle of Attack

• • Wide side of fairway strategy
• • Open up green approach angles
• • Avoid trouble side positioning
• • Consider green slope reception
• • Plan two shots ahead
• • Risk/reward assessment

Design Intent Recognition

• • Identify architect's preferred angles
• • Recognize strategic options
• • Find the "ideal" driving zones
• • Understand penalty areas placement
• • Read green contour purposes
• • Spot visual deception elements
• • Adapt to course philosophy

Hazard Assessment

• • Water hazard carry distances
• • Bunker placement strategy
• • Rough and native area severity
• • Out of bounds proximity
• • Environmental hazards
• • Recovery shot options
• • Risk vs. reward calculations

Wind Direction Indicators

• • Flag and pin movement
• • Tree tops and leaves
• • Clouds and their direction
• • Feel wind on face and arms
• • Toss grass or leaves
• • Water surface patterns
• • Other players' ball flights

Wind Strength Assessment