Ever had one of those days where you're flushing your irons on the range, feeling like prime Tiger, only to step onto the first tee and watch your scorecard go up in flames? It’s the ultimate golfer’s paradox, and usually, the culprit isn't your swing—it’s your brain. Course management in golf is the strategic process of making decisions on the course that minimize risk, maximize your strengths, and ultimately lead to the lowest possible score regardless of how well you're striking the ball that
On the range, you have no consequences and usually hit the same club repeatedly. On the course, every shot 'matters' and you only get one chance. Using the 'Process of Elimination' and focusing on your [Starting Direction](/video/rick-shiels-golf-i-play-my-best-golf-ever-with-a-little-secret-help) h
Hard no. Even the pros rarely fire straight at tucked pins. As [Paige Spiranac](/creator/paigespiranac) suggests, if a pin is surrounded by water or bunkers, aim for the center of the green. A 20-foot putt is always better than a chip from the sand.
It’s usually a speed control issue rather than a stroke issue. Focus on the 'feel' of the distance during your practice strokes. However, be careful on downhill putts—sometimes leaving it slightly short is safer than racing it 6 feet past and facing a three-putt.