First Cut

The transitional area of slightly longer grass immediately adjacent to closely mown fairway areas, providing a buffer zone between fairway and rough conditions. First cut lies typically offer reasonable playing conditions while requiring slight adjustments to technique and club selection. Understanding first cut characteristics helps golfers make appropriate strategic decisions and shot selections from these intermediate lies. First cut areas are common landing zones for slightly off-target shots and often provide recoverable playing positions. These areas represent the margin for error on many approach shots.