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How to use the cards

Why each sheet is worth having, how to read it, and how to get your own numbers onto it — all in about two minutes.

1. Print them

Every card is a PDF that puts two identical copies on one A4 sheet. That way you get a spare, or one to share.

  1. Download the card you want from the library.
  2. Print at 100% — choose “Actual size” and turn scaling off, so the cards come out true scorecard size.
  3. Cut down the centre, trim the borders, and fold one into your bag.

2. Know which kind of card it is

There are two kinds, and the “How to use” panel on every card tells you which:

Fill-in cards

These have blanks for your own numbers — the distance card, wedge matrix, chipping card and trackers. They're only as good as the data you put in, which is the next step.

Reference cards

These are ready to use as-is — the rules reference, trouble-shot guide, pre-shot routine and course-management card. Nothing to enter; just keep them handy.

3. Get the right data in

The fill-in cards work off your real, everyday numbers — not your best-ever ones. A few ways to gather them:

  • Launch monitor — the most accurate. Hit 8–10 balls per club, drop the shortest and longest, record the average carry.
  • Measured range — use the marked distances, or a rangefinder to a target, and average several shots.
  • A shot-tracking app — if you already track rounds, pull your average carry per club straight from your data.

Prefer to do it on screen first? Build a distance card or a wedge matrix with your own numbers, then print the result.

Approach and gapping principles draw on Mark Broadie's strokes-gained research and Shot Scope shot-tracking data.

Common questions

What size are the cards and how do I print them?
Each download puts two identical copies on one A4 sheet, each about 100 × 150 mm — normal golf scorecard size. Print at 100% (“Actual size”, no scaling), cut down the centre, then trim the borders for two cards to keep or share.
Are these printable golf tools really free?
Yes. Every card — all 26 — is free to download as a PDF, with no account or sign-up required.
What's the difference between a fill-in card and a reference card?
Fill-in cards (like the distance card and wedge matrix) have blanks for your own numbers. Reference cards (like the rules or trouble-shot guide) are ready to use as-is — no data to enter.
How do I measure my carry distances?
Hit 8–10 shots per club on a launch monitor or a measured range, ignore the shortest and longest, and record the average carry. Use your everyday number, not your best-ever one.
What is a wedge matrix?
A wedge matrix records your carry for each wedge at three swing lengths — half, three-quarter and full — so you have a reliable distance for almost any number inside 120 yards.