Course management is the art of playing smart golf. It's not always about hitting the longest drive or the most impressive shot. Sometimes the best shot is the one that puts you in the best position for your next shot. Understanding course management principles will help you score better and enjoy the game more.
One of the most important aspects of course management is knowing how far you hit each club. Spend time on the practice range with a rangefinder and learn your average distances for each club. This information is invaluable on the course. You should know not just your best-case distance, but your average distance under normal conditions.
Many amateur golfers overestimate their distances. They think they hit a 7-iron 170 yards when their actual average is 155 yards. This leads to poor club selection and missed greens. Be honest about your distances and club accordingly.
Every golfer has strengths and weaknesses. Maybe you're a great driver but struggle with long irons. Maybe you're an excellent putter but have a weak short game. Play to your strengths. If you're a great driver, don't be afraid to use the driver when it makes sense. If you're a great putter, don't be afraid to lay up and leave yourself a putt rather than going for a difficult shot.
Golf courses are designed with hazards – water, sand, rough, and out-of-bounds areas. Smart course management means avoiding these hazards. Sometimes this means hitting a 3-wood instead of a driver off the tee, or laying up short of a water hazard rather than trying to carry it. A bogey is better than a double bogey.
Look at the hole before you play it. Where are the hazards? Where is the best position to approach the green? Plan your route before you hit your first shot. This strategic thinking is what separates good golfers from great ones.
Every shot involves a risk-reward calculation. Going for the green in two on a par 5 might be exciting, but if you're likely to hit it in the water, is it worth it? Sometimes the smart play is to lay up and guarantee a bogey rather than risk a double or triple bogey.
This doesn't mean never taking risks. It means taking calculated risks when the reward justifies the risk. Early in a round when you're playing well, you might take more risks. Late in a round when you're struggling, you might play more conservatively.
Explore our golf tips section for more strategies. Also check out mental game tips for psychological approaches to better golf.