7 Mistakes Great Golfers Don’t Make!

Golf is an infuriating game at times, made all the more difficult when we inevitably make careless errors on the course. In this article, PGA professional Alex Elliott identifies 7 mistakes great golfers don't make and shares some essential advice to give your the best chance of shooting lower scores...

1. Dwelling on the negatives

Almost every shot you face on the course is riddled with danger. However, before you hit the ball you have to have a positive picture in your mind, no matter how dangerous the shot you’re facing is. Amateurs can sometimes become caught up in thinking about all the negatives that they forget to go through their usual pre-shot routine that creates a positive mindset.

2. Hitting shots you're uncomfortable with

You might think that the best players in the world are able to hit draws and fades at will but this often isn't the case. Many great players tend to have a shot shape they are most comfortable with that they rely on under pressure. 

Take Colin Montgomerie for example. One of Europe’s greatest ever players was predominantly a fader. He knew exactly how the ball would fly and the confidence this provided was clearly a huge part of his success. If you are uncomfortable with a certain shot, revert to the shot shape you feel most confident producing. This is one of the things tour players do that you don't.

3. Turning bogey into double

How often do you compound one error with another? For example, whenever you short-side yourself with an approach, you have a tricky decision to make. Trying to hit a flop shot like the pros and save par brings double bogey very much into play. Being able to assess the risks and rewards and making smarter choices in any given scenario is the best way to shoot the lowest scores possible.

4. Rushing under pressure

When you are under pressure, everything has a tendency to speed up. However, it is important that you take the time to think of three key things before hitting any full shot: the distance, the wind and the change in elevation. Imagine you have a caddie on your shoulder and go through the different elements of the shot with him. Consider the three key factors and you’ll create a much more positive mindset before you play.

5. Playing with dirty clubs

It’s true - great players have caddies and one of their responsibilities is keeping the clubs clean. You might not have a caddie but there is no excuse for hitting any shot (but wedge shots in particular) with dirt in the grooves. This will affect both the ball flight and the amount of spin you create. Clean your clubfaces to ensure you have as much control as possible. 

6. Rushing short putts

These are some of the most nervous moments during the round but rushing short putts is likely to lead to silly mistakes. Always take a moment to mark your ball, run through your usual routine and you’ll hole more short putts.

7. Using different golf balls

Most golfers will have a favourite golf ball. However, their second choice is often whatever is lying in the bottom of the golf bag. If you regularly use different types of ball you’ll find it hard to develop a consistent feel. This makes a big impact around the greens. So find a ball you like and then try to use that for as much of the golf you play as possible. This consistency will really help your scoring potential.