Keep a Shot Journal

One of the most underrated tools for golfers isn’t a new club or training aid—it’s a shot journal. Keeping track of your performance, thoughts, and patterns can give you insight into your game that practice alone can’t.

Why It Works

• Identifies patterns in your strengths and weaknesses

• Helps you recall what worked under pressure

• Strengthens your mental game through reflection

• Builds a record of progress over time

What to Record

After each round (or even practice session), jot down:

1. Best Shot of the Day

• What club did you use?

• What made it work—tempo, alignment, mindset?

• Were you confident over the ball?

2. Worst Shot of the Day

• What went wrong—mechanics, decision, nerves?

• What did you learn from it?

3. Mental Notes

• Were you rushed?

• Did you feel pressure?

• Did you stay focused or lose your routine?

4. Course Management Choices

• Did you play it safe or take a risk—and how did it turn out?

• Would you choose the same shot again?

5. Score by Club/Shot Type (Optional)

• You can also track how often you use certain clubs, or miss left/right, long/short.

• Use simple marks (✓ or ✗) if you don't want to write long notes.

How to Use It

• Keep a small notebook in your bag or use a notes app on your phone.

• Review your last few entries before your next round or practice.

• Look for recurring issues—like consistently pulling your 5-iron or losing focus on the back nine.

Bonus Tip

Try adding a “pre-round goal” at the top of each entry—something like:

• Stay patient after a bogey

• Commit to every shot

• Trust my swing tempo

Tracking goals helps shift your focus from score to performance habits.