Strokes Gained: Driving
Distance vs Accuracy: pick the strategy that fits the hole, not the myth.
Core Idea
Fairway isn’t always king. On many holes, a longer tee shot — even from the rough — can gain strokes versus a shorter, perfectly straight one. What matters: your next shot and its likelihood to hit the green.
When to choose distance
- Wide landing area: Rough is playable and trees are sparse.
- Short approach advantage: A shorter iron improves proximity significantly.
- No major hazards: Penalty areas or OB are well out of reach.
When to choose accuracy
- Narrow corridors: Trees or deep rough make recovery costly.
- Hazards tight to fairway: Penalties outweigh distance gains.
- Green protects long: Long rough, elevated greens, or firm conditions.
Track it in ClearCut
In the app, record your tee shot with:
- Club: Choose Driver or an alternative.
- Fairway result: Left / Fairway / Right (par 4/5).
- Distance: Enter a rough estimate (optional).
- Approach proximity: The closer your first putt, the better your SG.
One-Round Challenge
Pick 3 driveable holes. Choose the distance-first strategy if hazards are minimal. After the round, review SG Driving in Results and compare proximity outcomes.
TL;DR
More distance often wins — unless penalties loom. Plan tee shots by what sets up your best second shot.