How to Read a Yardage Book
- 1). Refer to the yardage book from the tee box. The yardage book will give distances to hazards such as sand traps and water hazards. The book will tell you how far it is to the front of these hazards and also how far to clear the hazard. Other markers show how far it is to a dogleg, which is when the fairway bends to the right or left.
- 2). Find a landmark that is referenced in the yardage book after hitting your tee shot. The yardage book will display yardage to the center of the green based on many different landmarks. Add or subtract the amount of yards depending on your relation to the landmark. For example, if you are 5 yards past the landmark and the yardage book states 132 yards, then add 5 yards, for a distance of 137 yards to the pin.
- 3). Look at the green page for the hole that you are playing to determine size of the green. If you can see the pin, try to work out if the pin is in the front or back of the green. Add or subtract distance the shot needs to be played to reach the front or back part of the green for your shot. For example, if you are 137 yards out from the center of the green and the pin is located in the back portion of a large green, you may need to add a few yards to your shot.
- 4). Determine the direction your putt may travel based on the green drawing in the yardage book. While the book will not provide an exact read, it will let you know which way the green predominately slopes and if it varies from different points on the green.
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