In this course management guide, Not A Scratch Golfer demonstrates how to break 80 by prioritizing strategy and short game over swing aesthetics. He emphasizes playing to conservative targets, managing misses to avoid double bogeys, and focusing on putting speed to eliminate three-putts.
Play aggressively to conservative targets; aim for the center of the green rather than chasing tucked pins.
Prioritize speed over line on lag putts to ensure easy two-putts and avoid high-stress par saves.
Eliminate 'big numbers' by leaving the driver in the bag on narrow holes and playing for bogey when in trouble.
Club up on approach shots to ensure that even a slight mis-hit reaches the putting surface.
Maintain a short memory; treat every shot as a fresh opportunity regardless of previous mistakes.
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