Golf course layout basics
Equipment and Shot Choices for Golf Course Layout Basics
Choose clubs and ball flights that fit the hole instead of forcing one swing everywhere.
Carry clubs that solve problems
A smart bag covers the shots your course asks for most. If your home layout has long par 3s and forced carries, a reliable hybrid may matter more than another lob wedge. If trees squeeze tee shots, a club you can bunt 190 yards into play is gold.
Think in jobs
- Fairway finder: driver choke-down, 3-wood, hybrid, or long iron.
- Carry club: clears a bunker or creek without your best swing.
- Punch-out club: 6-iron or 7-iron for low recoveries.
- Scoring wedge: your trusted 70-100 yard club.
Trajectory matters more than shot-shaping
Most golfers do not need a tournament draw and fade. They do need height control. Into wind, a three-quarter 6-iron may beat a full 8-iron that balloons short. To a raised green, take one more club and finish the swing.
Let the lie decide
Ball above your feet wants to curve left for a right-hander. A downhill lie launches lower. Wet rough can grab the face and kill spin. If the lie is poor, aim away from tucked pins and keep the next shot playable.