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The crucial course-management mistake costing you strokes (and how to fix it)

GOLF Top 100 Teacher Mark Durland explains why you should stop aiming directly at the flag if you want to shoot lower scores.

Published: Tuesday, 27 October 2026 at 5:27 PM
The crucial course-management mistake costing you strokes (and how to fix it)
Key Things to Know
  • Mark Durland argues that aiming at the flagstick without considering shot dispersion is a costly course-management mistake.
  • Golfers should adopt the strategy of choosing conservative targets while making aggressive, committed swings.
  • Understanding shot tendencies helps ensure that imperfect shots avoid severe trouble and leave manageable putts.
The Story in 60 Seconds

Golf instructor Mark Durland argues that aiming directly at the flagstick without considering shot dispersion is a major course-management mistake costing players strokes. He recommends adopting a strategy of playing aggressively toward conservative targets rather than firing at pins.

Durland explains that golfers should factor in their typical miss to ensure imperfect shots still land safely. Accounting for trouble and shot dispersion allows players to lower their scores without altering their swings.

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