Once you have your yardage computed, you'll find that most times you're stuck right between two clubs. Using the example at left, that 157 yardage is smack between my 8-iron (150 yards) and my 7-iron (165 yards). Amateurs like to use the least amount of club that they think will get them there, or they'll swing the club suggested by a caddie they just met. The best thing you can do is take the longer club and choke down on the grip to automatically subtract yards from your swing. Never never! change the speed of your swing to add or subtract yards. Notice in the photos at left that I've made identical swings with my 8-iron, but that I've used a choke grip for the swing on the right. The choke will automatically produce a shorter shot without me having to worry about altering my motion.
IMPORTANT! Build a Pro Yardage Book
If you haven't judged the different elevations or the firmness/softness of the greens of your home course in a yardage book, then you're making a big mistake. This is critical information if you want to score your best, and all it takes is an afternoon, a pad and a pencil. Nail all the variables with your favorite foursome. The more data you can gather, the better.