Be honest: Where does your game need help?

Narrow your focus and seek out a trained eye

Working the plan: practicing by moonlight, under Hank Haney's eye.

By Tiger Woods
Edited By Pete McDaniel and Mark Soltau
Photo By Dom Furore September 2007

I refuse to let anyone outwork me. That's the reason I log so much time on the practice range. Besides, hard work is the only way to maintain a competitive edge, and I enjoy the process. The key, though, is to practice with a purpose.

My philosophy has always been to identify the weakest part of my game and focus on turning it into a strength. That approach will work for you, too. Make an honest assessment of your game, and determine where you're losing most of your strokes. Whether it's the driver, irons, wedges or putter, simplify your instruction to get better. Find a professional to help you identify your flaw and provide the correct instruction to fix it. Then tailor your practice sessions so most of your time is spent on improving that part of your game. That's the fastest way to get results.

More from Tiger >>

Tiger Woods writes instruction articles only for Golf Digest.

Golf Digest

SUBSCRIBE TO GOLF DIGEST

and get Two Golf Tips Guides FREE -- Just for ordering!

12 issues for $14.97
*Plus applicable sales taxNon-USA - Click Here
 
July 24, 2008

lesson tees

Butch Harmon
Butch Harmon
How to hit any wedge shot
Jim Flick
Jim Flick
Become a shotmaker with my 14-club drill
Hank Haney
Here's one way to get more power
Tom Watson
Tom Watson
Give your putts a break
David Leadbetter
David Leadbetter
Drill: Putt on a shaft to check your path

Swing Sequences

Swing Sequences
View full-motion swing sequences some of the world's best players including Els, Mickelson, Garcia and more!

Analyze Your Game

Want help with your game? Shot By Shot offers a free trial of its game analysis.
MORE INFO

Tip of the Day

I feel tall and athletic in my posture, with my chin up away from my chest. Going back, my weight … More

Rule of the Day

A man and a woman are playing in a mixed league, where the format is match play. One hole on … More

Instructor Rankings

50 Greatest Teachers

Who are America's best instructors, as ranked by their peers? The names at the top are familiar to any serious student.

NEWSLETTERS

Golf Digest's newsletter
Golf World's newsletter

Golf Digest Subscribe >

Golf World

Visit Subscribe

Golf for Women

Visit Subscribe
Conde Nast Store
Subscribe

Best Places to Play — Course Finder

Advertiser Events & Promotions

rydercup1
How do you think Tiger Woods' absence will affect the U.S. team's chances of winning back the Ryder Cup?