Course Management · Tip
Plan Each Hole Backward, From Green to Tee
Part of our course management programs for big numbers, picking targets. Build a program with it
The best way to plan a hole is to start at the green. Which part of the green leaves the easiest putt? Which side is safe to miss? Next, decide what approach distance and angle get you there. Maybe a full wedge. Only then pick your tee shot. Where does it need to finish? Which club gets it there most often? Planning backward gives every shot a job and keeps you out of trouble.
Step by step
- Find the safe side of the green.
- Choose your ideal approach distance.
- Figure out where the tee shot must finish.
- Pick the club that gets there most reliably.
- Commit before you swing.
Why it works
Each shot sets up the next one, so the tee shot only makes sense once you know what you want from the approach. Starting at the green shows you where the safe miss is and which approach distance you hit most reliably. That gives the tee shot a clear target, and you stop choosing a club only because it goes the farthest.
Common mistakes
- You aim at the flag without checking where a miss will end up.Find the side of the green with the most room and the easiest recovery, and aim your approach to favor that side.
- You hit the longest club off the tee by default.Choose the club that most often finishes in the spot you picked, even if that leaves a longer approach.
- You make the plan but change your mind over the ball.Settle the target and club during your plan, then make your swing with a single clear target in mind.
How you'll know it's working
- Your approach shots mostly finish on the safe side of the green, even when they miss the flag.
- Your tee shots finish in the area you chose more often than not.
- You reach your second shot with a distance you are comfortable with, such as a full wedge, instead of an awkward half swing.
Make it easier or harder
Easier: Practice the plan on a hole you know well, or on a par 3 where you only need to pick the safe side and a club.
Harder: Plan every hole on a round before you play it, then compare your result with the plan and note where it broke down, using a par 5 or a hole with hazards on both sides.
Common questions
Why plan a golf hole from the green back to the tee?
The green decides which approach distance and angle you want, and that decides where the tee shot needs to finish. Working backward gives each shot a clear job.
Should I always hit driver off the tee?
No. Hit the club that most often reaches the spot you want for your next shot. If a shorter club leaves a comfortable approach and avoids trouble, it is often the better choice.
