Strategy: Par-3 tee shots

Five questions you must ask to boost your chances of finding the green.

1 Which side of the tee should I use?

Assess pin location and wind direction in making your choice, but also take your shot shape into account. A right-handed drawer for example might prefer the left side of the tee so he can set the ball out to the right edge of the green before bringing it back to the pin.

2 What’s my close-in target?

It’s easier to aim the club at a target one yard than 200 yards away, so pick something on the target line close to you that helps you aim. You can use your ability to choose the shot’s location here, teeing up behind an old divot or forward tee marker that helps you frame your target line.

Fault: Missing par-3 greens through poor assessment of the shot and conditions Fix: Develop a 5-step strategy checklist

Typically longer than the average approach and to better-protected targets, the shortie tee shot represents clear and unpleasant danger to your scorecard. Golf statisticians agree that finding the green on the par 3s is one of the most effective ways to post a great score. Because of this, we need to take extra care in planning the shot – and the best way to do this is to run through a list to make sure you are employing the best strategy for the shot. Address these five areas and you’ll give yourself your best chance of success.

5 Have I really got enough club?

Naturally you don’t want to hit a stronger club than your partners, but that thinking sees club players constantly come up short. For the next two rounds, select the club you want to hit, then hit one stronger. That extra firepower frees you to make a more relaxed, rhythmic swing.

4 How elevated is the tee?

Studies suggest a 6-iron pitching at 162 yards on a flat shot will hit the turf at around 140 for a green raised 20 yards, and 180 for a green 20 yards below. So, as a rule, for every yard the green is below the tee, subtract a yard from your shot length. Note the effect lessens with more loft.

3 Will conditions affect the ball?

Assess wind strength and direction – not just crosswinds but whether it is helping or hurting. Also consider the weather; cold, damp conditions rob distance while dry, warm air adds yards. Finally, estimate the firmness of the ground and take it into account when picking your club.