I think it depends on what you are trying to accomplish that round or what type of golfer you want to become. If I'm a weekend golfer out to swing for the fences and have a great time with guys, lay up isn't in my vocab. But if I'm trying to build a good handicap or prepare myself for tourny playing a mix of both is a must. I'm a firm believer in gut feeling, if you think your gonna hit it short and in the hazard don't let a Tiger wanna be talk you into a snow man. Just be you and do what you know you can do. If it doesn't work out you'll live and learn for the next situation . That is the great thing about this game, no one is there to tell you what to do (just suggest) and if something goes wrong it's your fault.