Scoring is important – it’s how we measure our success and progress. But score isn’t everything, and knowing when to apply a “scoring” mentality and when to apply a “shotmaking” mentality can bring tremendous improvement to your game. A stroke play mentality encourages risk-taking (i.e. “I need a birdie, so I’ll go at that flag tucked over the bunker”) while a shotmaking mentality encourages hitting solid shots (“I’ll start the ball at the middle of the green, and hit it solid. If I miss a bit right I’ll be tight.”)
Both mentalities allow you to score well, depending on the type of player you are. Play a few rounds in each style and try to determine where your balance lies.