Statistically, GIR and putting are the #1 and #2 factors that determine your final score (for example, if you hit 8 GIR's, putt decent and don't blow up, you should statistically be <= 80). This means that to statistically maximize your chances for a good score, you should practice approach shots and putting more than anything.

Here are some hints:

* Determine how far from the green your drives generally end up. Practice approach shots from this distance. Generally around 150-200 yards.

* Determine how far from the hole your GIR shots generally end up. Practice putting from this distance. Generally around 7-15 yards.

* Determine how far from the green your missed GIR generally end up. Practice short game from this distance. Generally 10-30 yards.

* If our GIR approach shots are generally very far from the hole (>20y), you will 3 putt more often. Practice approach and lag putting.

* If you don't regularly hit FIR, you will have a harder time achieving GIR. Practice driving. If you hit a lot of OB, into water, trees, really deep rough etc, use a 3W, hybrid or long iron until you've learned to use your driver.

* Regardless of your statistics, practice 6 feet putts and lag putts. Many players (pros also) regards the 6 feet putt as the most important shot in golf. Whether you agree or not, if you practice 6 feet putts (direction control) and lag putts (distance control), you don't need to practice any other type of putt.

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Regards, Peter
(WITB)