How good course management can lower your score

The top pros can get up and down from greenside bunkers without much trouble. Medium- to high-handicap golfers should avoid the bunkers when possible. If you are 150 yards away from the flagstick, which is in the front part of the green, your first instinct might be to use an 8-iron and go for the flag. If the green is guarded by a bunker, however, you should use a 7-iron and go for the middle or the back of the green.

When the wind is blowing in your face, keep the ball low to maximum your distance. Tee the ball a bit lower than usual and stand with the ball midway between your feet, which should be shoulder length apart.

Gap and lob wedges have made chipping a lost art. Instead of hitting a low bouncing ball to a green with an uphill slope, most golfers try land a pitch shot softly on the surface. The problem is there is very little margin for error. Think of the correct shot as more of an elongated putt from 30 to 50 yards off the green. Keep your wrists stiff.