Smart Decision Making

What to Know

Course management is where elite players separate themselves. It’s not about hitting perfect shots, it’s about minimizing damage and giving yourself the best chance over 18 holes.

Why It Matters

Amateur golfers often lose more strokes to poor decisions than poor swings (Broadie, 2014). Smart strategy = fewer doubles and more stress-free pars.

What Helps

• Know your miss: play to your high-percentage shot shape.
• Club up and swing smooth, don’t force it.
• Aim to fat side of green when in doubt.
• Know when to attack.

Try This Today

Play a round where your goal is to NEVER short-side yourself. Track how many greens you hit as a result.

Pro Tip

Use yardage books or apps (like Arccos or DECADE) to plan your round ahead of time.