If you’re new to golf, this article is for you. Golf can seem like a mysterious blend of math, luck, and mild emotional breakdowns—but winning is actually simpler than it looks. Once you understand how the scoring works, you’ll be halfway to victory.
Step 1: Understand What “Winning” Means in Golf
Golf is unique: the lowest score wins. That’s right, fewer strokes equals better. Here’s how winning works in the most common formats:
- Stroke Play (most common):
Everyone plays the full 18 holes. Add up all your strokes. The person with the lowest total score wins. It’s basic math, but here’s an example: You shoot 85, your friend shoots 92. You win. Just make sure you add up your strokes at the end of each hole. Side note: A stroke is every time you hit the ball. - Match Play:
You win holes, not strokes. If you take 4 strokes and your opponent takes 5, you win that hole. First to win more holes than are left wins the match. - Stableford (points system):
Points are awarded based on score relative to par. Most points at the end wins.
Great for fast scoring and avoiding total meltdowns on one hole.
Key point: You don’t need to be flashy to win — you just need to use fewer swings.
Step 2: Play to Win (Smart Strategy Over Power)
Winning isn’t about who can hit the ball the farthest. It’s about who can avoid disaster the longest.
Here’s how to play smart:
- Play for position: Aim for the middle of the fairway. Trust us, it’s easier said than done.
- Know your yardages: Hit the club that gets you safely on or near the green.
- Avoid big numbers: A boring bogey is better than a heroic quadruple.
Basically, think simple. Hit it straight, use the right club, and don’t try to murder the ball.
Step 3: Beat the Short Game (Because It Beats Everyone)
Surprisingly, most strokes are lost within 100 yards of the hole. If you want to win:
- Practice putting more than anything else
- Get comfortable with chips, pitches, and bunker shots
- Develop touch and distance control — not just power
A 3-foot putt counts the same as a 300-yard drive — and wins more matches.
As the old saying goes, drive for show, putt for dough.
Step 4: Build Your Mental Game
Golf can mess with your head faster than your swing. It’s a love-hate kind of relationship.
- Stay patient — one bad hole won’t ruin your round, or your life. So stay calm and play on.
- Focus on the shot at hand, not the scorecard
- Visualize success instead of the lake in front of you
Rule of thumb: if you’re thinking “don’t hit it in the water,” you’re probably about to hit it in the water. A drink or two can calm your nerves—but overdo it, otherwise congratulations, you’re a viral TikTok sensation.
Step 5: Finish Strong
Endurance matters, especially if you want to win over 18 holes:
- Stretch and warm up to avoid fatigue – Miguel Angel Jimenez has mastered this.
- Eat and hydrate during your round – enjoy a glizzy and brewski at the turn (after the 9th hole)
- Keep your routine consistent on every shot
Strong finishes often decide winners—many golfers lose focus on the last three holes. But not you!
Made It This Far? Congrats! Let’s Wrap It Up:
Winning at golf means knowing the format, following the rules, and playing smart, steady golf.
If you can:
- Understand how scores work
- Limit mistakes
- Master your short game
- Keep your cool under pressure
You’ll have the best shot at walking off the 18th green with bragging rights — and a chip on your shoulder.