Watch and Learn
In addition to watching for play patterns on the scoreboard you can also change from just watching to observing play either on television or live.
If there is a Challenge Tour, Senior Tour, or Ladies European Tour event within a reasonable distance get there. You’ll have much better views and so may learn more.
OBSERVE
Pre shot routines Notice how different players have different routines. Do your favourites take practice swings on the tee, on approach shots etc.?
If so, how many? Is it always the same number?
How long do they take from address to stroke?
A steady count at your own pace will give you a rough idea.
How does it change?
Do the results of the time differences change?
Research has shown that time taken standing over a putt is a good measurement of success/failure.
Remember, it’s not the time that matters. It’s the changes to the less visible routines that make the difference.
Longer than normal means that the player is likely to be dithering a bit. Something is being added in.
Too short and it may mean he or she hasn’t actually used a mind clearing technique, or is a bit anxious and wants to get the shot over. Something is being left out
Relaxing and Refocusing
Does your favourite player chat a bit to his caddie and/or playing companions?
Is he or she a concentrator? Walking on his or her own most of the time.
Observe differences. When do they happen?
Even high concentrators such as Tiger sometimes has a time-out.How well do they recover? What happens after a great shot?
Watch emotional control and observe them refocusing.
If you can get close enough watch facial expressions and body language.