Should your left arm be straight throughout your ENTIRE swing?

[Egoolps]

I know this is a rookie question...but is this how it's supposed to be? I know the whole "left arm straight" applies...but should is still be straight when you are at the highest point of your backswing?

[shortstop20]

Ideally yes, once you get past the bottom of your downswing though your left arm should begin to fold and your right arm should extend, almost like a mirror of your backswing.

[Eeryck]

I think the simple answer is if your elbows are pointed twoards your hips at address and you swing on plane your left elbow does not have much choice but to be straight through your back swing and then it does not have much choice but to bend through your follow through.

-E

[cigarnut81]

The swing should be relaxed and under control. The most important part of the golf swing is square and solid contact with the golf ball. The backswing does not hit the golf ball!