10 Common Mistakes Beginner Golfers Make (And How to Fix Them)

Golf is one of the most rewarding and humbling sports in the world. While it seems simple (hit a ball into a hole), the margin for error is razor-thin. If you're a beginner, chances are you're making a few classic mistakes that are holding you back from improving faster and enjoying the game more.

Below are the 10 most common mistakes beginner golfers make, along with actionable tips to correct each one.

1. Swinging Too Hard

Mistake:
Many beginners believe they need to “kill” the ball to get it far down the fairway. This often leads to a breakdown in mechanics, over-the-top swings, loss of balance, and poor contact.

The Fix:
Power in golf comes from timing, rotation, and balance, not just force. Focus on developing a smooth, controlled swing tempo. A good drill is the “3-second swing”: take 2 seconds for the backswing and 1 second for the downswing. Start slow and work up.

Pro Tip:
Watch professional golfers like Adam Scott or Ernie Els. Their swings are effortless and rhythmic. Emulate their tempo, not their speed.

2. Using the Wrong Clubs

Mistake:
New players often grab a driver, long iron, or blade-style wedge, thinking it’ll help them improve. But these clubs are the least forgiving and require precise contact to use effectively.

The Fix:
Use clubs that help you get the ball in the air easily and reduce mishits. That means:

• Hybrids instead of long irons (3-4-5)
• Cavity-back irons with perimeter weighting
• A 3-wood or hybrid off the tee instead of a driver
• Wide-soled wedges that resist digging into turf

Pro Tip:
Check out beginner-friendly sets like the Callaway Strata, Wilson SGI, or Tour Edge Bazooka 370.

3. Skipping the Short Game

Mistake:
New golfers typically head straight to the driving range and spend all their time on drivers and irons, but the short game (100 yards and in) makes up over 60% of total strokes.

The Fix:
Dedicate at least half of your practice time to:

• Chipping (from fringe, rough, and tight lies)
• Putting (focus on distance control more than line)
• Pitch shots (30–70 yards)
• Bunker shots (if you have access)

Pro Tip:
Keep a practice routine: 20 putts from various distances, 20 chips with different clubs, and 10 bunker shots per session.

4. Ignoring Setup and Alignment

Mistake:
Your swing might be fine, but poor grip, stance, or aim can sabotage everything. Beginners often line up open to the target, grip too tightly, or stand too far from the ball.

The Fix:

• Grip: Use a light, neutral grip. Your hands should work together as a single unit, not fight each other.
• Posture: Slight knee bend, straight back, and arms hanging naturally.
• Alignment: Align feet, hips, and shoulders parallel to the target line.

Pro Tip:
Lay two clubs on the ground when practicing: one pointing at the target (ball line) and one for your feet (parallel).

5. Playing from the Wrong Tees

Mistake:
Beginner golfers often play from the back tees (tips), thinking it’s more “legit.” But this adds unnecessary yardage, pressure, and slows the game down.

The Fix:
Play from forward tees until you're consistently breaking 100 or hitting 200+ yard drives. Golf is supposed to be fun, and having reachable par-4s and fewer double bogeys makes a huge difference.

Pro Tip:
Most courses have tee recommendations based on your average driver distance. Follow them, and your round will be more enjoyable (and faster).

6. Not Taking Lessons

Mistake:
Many beginners try to learn on their own through YouTube or trial and error. While free content can help, it doesn’t correct flaws specific to your swing or body type.

The Fix:
Invest in at least 2–3 lessons with a local PGA professional. A coach can:

• Spot your flaws immediately
• Give you drills to correct bad habits
• Help you build a swing that fits your body

Pro Tip:
Group clinics or beginner bootcamps are often cheaper and just as effective for early-stage players.

7. Neglecting Course Management

Mistake:
Trying to hit every flag, attempting risky shots over hazards, and never thinking ahead leads to blow-up holes.

The Fix:
Think strategically:

• Aim for the center of the green, not the pin
• Avoid hazards and tough lies
• Play shots you know you can hit consistently

Pro Tip:
When in doubt, take the club that leaves you short and safe, not long and in trouble.

8. Getting Frustrated Too Easily

Mistake:
Golf is difficult. One bad shot often spirals into a bad hole, then a bad round. Many beginners beat themselves up too much.

The Fix:
Focus on progress, not perfection. Celebrate small wins. For example, a solid chip, a 2-putt, or one less triple bogey. The goal is to improve bit by bit.

Pro Tip:
Start tracking your stats: fairways hit, greens in regulation, and number of putts. Progress isn’t always in score; sometimes it’s in consistency.

9. Not Knowing the Rules or Etiquette

Mistake:
While golf has evolved, respect for the game and fellow players still matters. Slow play, not fixing divots, or walking in someone’s line can ruin the vibe.

The Fix:
Learn these basics:

• Ready golf: Play when ready, not just when “away”
• Repair ball marks and divots
• Rake bunkers
• Keep pace with the group ahead, not behind

Pro Tip:
Bring 2-3 balls, a divot repair tool, and extra tees. Be prepared and respectful.

10. Spending Too Much on Gear Too Soon

Mistake:
Beginner golfers often think a $700 driver or custom irons will fix their swing, but you can't buy a better swing.

The Fix:
Stick to beginner or intermediate sets until you consistently shoot below 100. Use the money for lessons, range time, or green fees instead.

Pro Tip:
Check second-hand golf retailers for gently used gear at a fraction of the price.

Final Thoughts

Golf has a steep learning curve, but avoiding these 10 mistakes will help flatten it. Stay patient, stay curious, and stay consistent. Improvement doesn’t come overnight — but with the right habits and mindset, it absolutely does come.

If you're serious about getting better, consider:

• Booking a lesson
• Downloading a beginner-friendly golf app
• Practicing with purpose, not just hitting balls