Whether it’s from books, magazines, DVD’s or the Internet, there seems to be an endless amount of golf information available.

As far back as the beginning of the game, golfers have wanted tips and techniques to improve their swings or games. Through the years many golf professionals and authors have been happy to oblige. My own library has some of these old instruction classics as well as some newer books. And there is no doubt many are filled with valuable information.

Over the years the game and equipment has changed so what’s relevant today? How do you know what you are reading or being told applies to your swing or the game today? If we still played with hickory shafted clubs it would probably be a good idea to copy Bobby Jones swing but we are playing in an era of computer designed equipment, both shafts and club-heads. There is a reason the swings of modern day golf professionals have evolved. Equipment changes have resulted in a need to apply force to the ball in a different manor than what was required of Bobby Jones and his equipment.

Before you jump in and try some of the things you read, see or are told, you need to assess the quality of information. Has the information been recommended by someone who has tried it? Can the method be demonstrated and shown to be used by top professionals? Do you understand the method or technique?

Is the information given in sequence? The information needs to come in a logical step-by-step sequence. For example, if you try to correct a move in the downswing while ignoring mistakes in the backswing and stance, it is unlikely that you will make any true changes in your downswing. You shouldn’t expect to correct an error if the error itself is being caused by or being influenced by a prior error in the swing.

Can you understand the information whether in written form, video or in person? If you don’t understand something or you don’t think it is working for you can you ask questions?

How practical is the information? Perfect practice makes perfect. Are there drills, positions, movements to copy so you can learn perfect?

How are you going to get feedback about what you are learning? The ultimate test is how your shots improve in practice or on the course. Do you have a way of measuring your progress?

You need some detail about what you are learning so you understand why and how the process works. Simplicity does not equal incomplete. Keeping it simple does not necessarily make it easy to execute, if it is incomplete. So it is necessary for you to know and understand the principles, but the goal is to develop a simple and logical step-by-step process towards improvement.

Improving your swing will take an investment of time and money. You can try and figure it out by yourself or you can utilize a PGA Professionals experience and training.

Whatever path you choose it will take some commitment on your part even if it is only 10 minutes every day. This small amount of worthwhile practice is better than aimlessly hitting balls hoping you will discover the secret one day. In fact, there isn’t one secret, it’s a combination of them.

As always, if you have any questions of comments please feel free to contact me.