Golf Course Strategy Guide

Effective course management is the difference between shooting under par and struggling to break 80. Strategic play involves understanding risk vs. reward, playing to your strengths, and minimizing big numbers.

Pre-Round Planning

• Study the course layout and pin positions
• Identify forced carries and hazards
• Note wind direction and weather conditions
• Plan your strategy for each hole
• Know your yardages and club distances

Tee Shot Strategy

• Driver isn't always the best choice
• Aim for the widest part of the fairway
• Consider pin position when choosing target
• Avoid trouble at all costs on difficult holes
• Play to your preferred approach distance

Green Reading and Target Selection

• Always aim for the center of the green when in doubt
• Consider pin position: front, middle, or back
• Factor in green slopes and runoff areas
• Leave yourself uphill putts when possible
• Avoid short-sided positions

Club Selection Guidelines

• Take enough club to reach the back of the green
• Consider elevation changes (uphill/downhill)
• Factor in wind conditions
• Account for adrenaline in pressure situations
• Know your carry distances vs. total distances

Around the Green Options

• Putt when possible (even from off the green)
• Chip when you need to carry a small amount
• Pitch when you need height and spin
• Consider bounce and lie conditions
• Always have a landing spot in mind

Wind Strategy

• Into the wind: Take more club, lower trajectory
• Downwind: Less club, be careful of distance control
• Crosswind: Aim into the wind and let it work
• Swirling winds: Play for center of targets

Rain and Wet Conditions

• Expect shorter distances
• Focus on solid contact
• Be more aggressive to pins (less roll)
• Keep grips dry