Shot Options

[Patch]

Just wondering how many golfers, when they get to their next shot, think about all the shot options that might be available in a certain situation? Sometimes there is more than one type of shot/club combination that might work better for the same shot at hand. This assuming the golfer has multiple types of shots in their game. A good example would be does the golfer go under the tree, or around it?

This probably falls under course management since the course itself is dictating the possible options.

I always look first for the easiest shot that I know how to hit when faced with options. However, sometimes that easiest shot, might not be the best shot in a given situation.

[bkuehn1952]

I don't work the ball left, right, high or low on demand.  So my initial decision is whether my standard relatively straight, not overly spinning shot will work.  Only when faced with a situation that eliminates my standard shot do I start looking to do something creative.  Close to the green there are typically more options and I am less inclined to go with one approach over another.

[David in FL]

Just wondering how many golfers, when they get to their next shot, think about all the shot options that might be available in a certain situation? Sometimes there is more than one type of shot/club combination that might work better for the same shot at hand. This assuming the golfer has multiple types of shots in their game. A good example would be does the golfer go under the tree, or around it?

This probably falls under course management since the course itself is dictating the possible options.

I always look first for the easiest shot that I know how to hit when faced with options. However, sometimes that easiest shot, might not be the best shot in a given situation.

The best players in the world tend to stick with a "stock" shot the vast majority of the time.

I'd argue that for most amateurs, the easiest shot ......the one that they actually have a chance of executing properly .....is the best option in most situations.

[saevel25]

Just wondering how many golfers, when they get to their next shot, think about all the shot options that might be available in a certain situation? Sometimes there is more than one type of shot/club combination that might work better for the same shot at hand. This assuming the golfer has multiple types of shots in their game. A good example would be does the golfer go under the tree, or around it?

This probably falls under course management since the course itself is dictating the possible options.

I always look first for the easiest shot that I know how to hit when faced with options. However, sometimes that easiest shot, might not be the best shot in a given situation.

Unless there is a funky lie, or situation, I play a draw. I might even tee up with my feet outside the tee makers to get a better angle with the draw.

As for lets say hitting around a tree. I usually stand over the ball and take some swings with out a club to get a feel of what club I have to use to punch out with. Usually I can tell easily if I can hit a ball through a gap and/or get the ball above the tree instead of going under the tree branches.

As for shaping, I rather draw or hook the ball than fade it. I try not to force the issue much. My number one goal is to advance the ball towards the green as much as possible with out costing myself more strokes than I need to.