Breaking 90: keep the ball in play and eliminate big numbers
Most golfers breaking 90 don’t hit many greens or make many birdies. The magic comes from limiting double bogeys and keeping penalty strokes off the card.
Keys to Breaking 90:
Play smart off the tee: Use clubs that keep the ball in play. Driver isn’t always necessary
Avoid penalties: Eliminate OBs and water balls.
One-chip, two putt rule: Prioritize getting the ball on the green and two-putting from there.
Accept bogey: You don’t need many pars to break 90 - just avoid the blow-up holes.
“To break 90, you only need to average bogey on each hole. That’s it.”
Breaking 80: Sharpen Your Short Game and Hit More Greens
Breaking 80 requires a bit more precision but still doesn’t require perfection. Most 70s shooters only hit 9-11 greens per round.
Keys to Breaking 80:
Solid shot game: Up-and-downs, sand saves, and smart lag putting are essential.
Know your shot shape: A reliable fade or draw is more valuable than a perfect swing.
Minimize 3-putts: Speed control is everything once you’re on the green.
Course management: Avoid sucker pins and favor the center of greens.
“Breaking 80 isn’t about hitting 300 yards - it’s about making fewer mistakes.”
Breaking 70: Consistency, Confidence, and Commitment
Scoring in the 60s means your fundamentals are dialed in and your decision-making is elite. But even here, it’s less about swing perfection and more about mental clarity and discipline.
Keys to Breaking 70:
Play to strengths: Avoid shots you haven’t practiced. Rely on your go-to shot under pressure.
Hit it close with wedges: Convert scoring opportunities from inside 100 yards.
Stay even-tempered: One bad hole doesn’t ruin a round. Keep the big picture in mind.
Routine is gold: Pre-shot and post-shot routines keep nerves and thoughts in check.
“Breaking 70 is about managing your game, not mastering it.”
The Real Secret? Simplicity and Strategy
Too many golfers chase swing changes instead of score-improving strategies. Here’s what actually lowers scores at every level:
Track you stats: Know your weaknesses—greens hit, up-and-down percentages, 3-putts.
Practice with purpose: Spend more time on your short game than you do on your long game.
Make smarter decisions: Choose targets and clubs that suit you skill level.
Stay mentally present: Focus on one shot at a time, not your score.
Final Thoughts
Whether your goal is to break 90, 80, or 70, the path is clearer than you think. It’s not about rebuilding your swing—it’s about building smarter habits. With the right mindset, solid fundamentals, and strategic thinking, your next scoring milestone is well within reach.