Lower scores do not always require large swing changes. In fact, most golfers can shave strokes simply by tightening up a few key areas of their game. With a little structure and the right priorities, you can start seeing improvement almost immediately.
Common beginning? Predictability. The more you can control your ball—the distance, direction, and where it’s missing—the more consistent your swing becomes. These basics don’t require elite athleticism; they just require attention and smart practice.
Here are five reliable ways to lower your scores, no matter your skill level.
1. Improve placement distance control
If you want to score well, you must hit well – and distance control is the biggest piece of this puzzle. The simplest and most effective “distance controller” is the length of the back. A consistent backspin length regulates how quickly the putter’s head drops, which determines how far the ball spins.
Practice hitting shots in three-foot increments, increasing the length of your backswing as you move farther from the hole. You’ll develop a dependable feel—and eliminate the three-putt.
2. Know your wedge distances
Wedge shots are your best scoring opportunities, but only if you know how far each one goes. This means understanding not only your full travel clearances, but also how different rear travel lengths change your carry distance.
Spend time hitting wedges at specific targets and scoring the results. The better you know your “numbers”, the more chances you will create for a suitable and even bird.
3. Stop the short hand
Smart course management it can save as many hits as a big swing. One of the biggest mistakes that amateurs make is missing them – missing the side of the green closest to the hole. With little green to work with, even a good shot can’t be stopped quickly enough, leaving a difficult landing.
Plan your mistakes. Aim for the green side which gives you space to drive the ball, play a lower risk chip and get the ball closer more often.
4. Chip with strong and stable contact
A low speed chip should be one of your most reliable scoring shots. Because the movement is small and shallow, it’s inherently forgiving—as long as your setup is sound.
Your chipping motion should resemble your putting stroke, but with your sternum slightly forward to create a more oblique, first-ball stroke. Good posture helps you find the center of the clubface and control distance with ease.
5. Play the percentages on the green
If your goal is to hit more greens—and it should be—start aiming for bigger, safer targets. The flag isn’t always the smartest choice, especially when it’s rolled up. Aiming for the widest part of the green increases your chances of finding the surface and takes the pressure off the ball.
Try this on your next round: aim for the thick side of the green unless you have a called wedge in hand. Compare your score to a round where you shot at every pin – the difference may surprise you.
