How to Break 90: A Step-by-Step Guide

Breaking 90 is a huge milestone for many golfers, and the good news is, you don’t need to be perfect to do it. You just need a smart strategy, a steady mindset, and a little discipline. Here's a simple, step-by-step plan to help you finally crack that elusive 89.

1. Think Bogey, Not Birdie

You don’t need a single birdie to break 90. In fact, you can make 9 bogeys and 9 pars and shoot 81. The key? Avoid big numbers. Play for bogey on tough holes and take smart pars where you can.

2. Tee It Smart, Not Far

Ditch the ego and choose the club that keeps you in play. A 220-yard drive in the fairway is more valuable than a 270-yard bomb into the woods.

3. Master the Short Game

Chipping and putting save more strokes than anything else. Practice your 3–to 10-foot putts and basic chip shots. If you can get up-and-down just a few more times per round, your score will drop fast.

4. Know Your Distances

Take the time to learn how far you actually hit each club. Guesswork leads to missed greens and trouble. Use a rangefinder or app to help track distances.

5. Play Within Your Skills

Don’t try shots you haven’t practiced. If there’s trouble around the green, aim for the middle. If you’re in the trees, punch out. Save the hero shot for the range

6. Stay Mentally Steady

One bad hole doesn’t kill your round. Stay focused, breathe, and keep your goals in mind. A calm golfer is a consistent golfer.

Breaking 90 isn’t about playing perfect golf; it’s about making fewer mistakes, sticking to your game plan, and grinding out every shot. Follow these steps, and 89 will show up sooner than you think.