Common Strategic Mistakes in Course Management

Ego writes bad yardages

The classic strategic mistake is choosing the club for the shot you want to hit, not the shot you usually hit. Another is aiming at pins that punish your normal miss. Both feel brave; neither is smart.

Red flags

• Going at a back pin from the rough with a flyer lie.
• Trying to curve a recovery shot when a chip-out leaves a wedge.
• Hitting driver because the hole is long, even when the landing area is wrong.
• Forgetting that bogey can be a win.

Reminder: You are allowed to play the hole in four sensible shots.

Fix the habit

Before each risky shot, name the worst likely outcome. If you can’t accept it, choose another play.