How to Play a Golf Course with Small Greens

When I have a student scheduled to play a competitive round of golf on a course with small greens, I like to review with them a set of strategies that help with their scoring.

The old-style courses, including those in our list of elite, private clubs, often have greens that demand laser-guided accuracy to hit the target.

I work with students to hone their precision with their irons, but that’s not all. Unlike courses with expansive putting surfaces, small greens demand accuracy with approach shots and finesse around the green. I spend time with serious students on course management and short game: chipping, pitching and sand play. Here’s how to effectively navigate a course with small greens and optimize your scoring opportunities.

Focus on Accuracy with Approach Shots

The most critical aspect of playing a course with small greens is hitting your approach shots with precision. Small greens offer less margin for error, so it's essential to prioritize accuracy over distance. When selecting a club for your approach shot, consider using one that allows for greater control rather than going for maximum distance. This might mean opting for a shorter club, like a pitching wedge or a 9-iron, instead of a longer club that might carry the ball too far or too erratically.

Aim for the center of the green rather than trying to attack the pin directly. This conservative approach increases your chances of landing on the putting surface, even if your shot isn't perfect. Missing a small green can often lead to challenging recovery shots from bunkers, rough, or other hazards, so focusing on hitting the green, even if it means a longer putt, is generally the smarter play.

When calculating your yardage, take note of any factors that might influence your shot, such as wind, elevation changes, and the firmness of the greens. Adjust your club selection and aim accordingly to give yourself the best chance of finding the green. On small greens, precision is paramount, so taking the time to thoroughly assess the situation before making your shot is crucial.

Hone Your Short Game

A strong short game is vital when playing on a course with small greens. Even with the best intentions, you will inevitably miss some greens, so being able to recover effectively is key to maintaining a good score. Focus on improving your chipping, pitching, and bunker play to ensure that you can get up and down from around the green.

When practicing your short game, pay particular attention to distance control and accuracy. On small greens, it’s not enough to simply get the ball on the green—you need to get it close to the hole to avoid three-putts. Practice hitting chips and pitches to specific targets, varying the distance and trajectory to simulate different on-course situations.

Learn to use the bounce on your wedge when playing shots around the green. The bounce is the rounded edge on the back of the clubbed. When swung on the correct angle of attack, the bounce will glide across the ground or glide through the sand. Bounce will help you hit wedge shots that land softly on the green and roll out a controlled, short distance on the green.

Bunker play is also crucial on courses with small greens, as many small greens are well-protected by sand traps. Work on your ability to escape bunkers with high, soft shots that land softly and stop quickly. Being able to consistently get out of bunkers and close to the pin can save you strokes and keep your scorecard clean.

In addition to your chipping and pitching, work on your putting from a variety of distances. On small greens, you’ll often find yourself with putts of varying lengths, so being comfortable with lag putting, as well as making those crucial short putts, is essential.

 Play Smart and Stay Patient

Course management is just as important as shot execution when playing a course with small greens. Understanding when to take risks and when to play conservatively can make a significant difference in your overall score. On holes where the green is particularly small or well-protected by hazards, it may be wise to aim for a safer spot on the green or even lay up if the situation calls for it.

Avoid getting overly aggressive, especially if the pin is tucked in a difficult position. Instead, aim for the safest part of the green or a spot that gives you a straightforward chip or pitch. By playing smart and minimizing mistakes, you can avoid big numbers on your scorecard.

Patience is also essential when playing a course with small greens. You may find that you miss more greens than usual, leading to a higher number of up-and-down attempts. Stay focused on your short game, and don’t let frustration affect your play. Keep reminding yourself that small greens require a different approach, and sticking to your game plan will ultimately yield better results.

Conclusion

Playing a golf course with small greens requires a combination of precision, strategic thinking, and a strong short game. By focusing on accuracy with your approach shots, honing your short game skills, and playing smart, you can navigate these challenging courses effectively. Small greens demand that you bring your best game, but they also offer an opportunity to sharpen your skills and enhance your overall golfing ability. Embrace the challenge, and you’ll find that playing on small greens can be both rewarding and enjoyable.