Golf is an age-old game that is enjoying a new lease on life. Over the past decade, as more and more young and young-at-heart golfers have taken up the sport. To meet with this new demand, many clubs are offering golf lessons. Students of all ages can take group lessons at golf schools, clinics and camps, or they can opt for one-on-one instruction with the resident pro.

If you're looking for a little extra help, the choice is really up to you. Before making your decision, however, there are a few important points to keep in mind about golf schools and golf instructors.

You must be willing to not only ask some pretty direct questions, but also be prepared to give honest and straightforward answers:

* Are you in it for the long run?

Are you a frequent player? Do you have a history of starting new interests, and then dropping them when they get too difficult or "boring"? How much do you know about golf? Do you even like to play the game? Make sure that you really have an interest in golf and want to play, before you invest your time and money into lessons.

* Know your skill level

Honestly assessing your skills can be a bitter pill to swallow. Are you a beginner, just starting to learn the basics of the game? An intermediate player with some skills? Or, are you a seasoned golfer who just needs to polish up on a few areas? Don't try to kid yourself, or your instructor. If you pretend to be better than you really are, you just might miss out on some great tips and advice.

* Understand your strengths and shortcomings

You should be able to recognize the precise areas of your game that need attention, particularly if you're an intermediate or advanced golfer. Should you fine-tune your swing or your stance? Would you like to hone your current style of play and just add a few new techniques? Maybe your entire games could use a complete overhaul. Lessons are available for all types of golfers. Know what you need to learn, and what to expect from your golf instruction, before seeking the right learning environment.

Once you've answered these questions, and have determined what you need to do to become a better golfer, it's time to look for your lessons. Be prepared to work hard; taking golf lessons can seem like a crash course, with a barrage of textbook style information coming at you at a blinding pace.

Most programs are accessible to players at all levels of expertise. You may, therefore, expect to be placed with a group of students who match your similar skill level. Take the time to observe your fellow students' developments, and learn from their progress as well as your own.

Beginners should take the time to ask questions, and insist on receiving clear and complete answers. Your instructor is there to help you learn, so make sure that he or she is willing to offer assistance when you ask for it. Experienced golfers with lower handicaps should be sure that all areas of particular interest are properly addressed.

Attending a golf school is a little like your own career. You are expected to work hard, but of course there is a reward for your efforts. The instructors should drastically improve your play, and you should realize great value for your money. Expect to leave the course with a new understanding and mastery of the game. That is the whole point of golf instruction, and that is why both you and your instructor are there.

Be sure to check your ego in the locker room before you step into the classroom. This is no place for escalated self-worth or a hot temper. A crucial part of learning is the ability to realize and correct your mistakes and shortcomings. It can be difficult to have our flaws pointed out in a group setting, but it can also be a source of great laughs. Don't view it as criticism. It's simply a lesson that will, ultimately, improve your game. Leave your ego behind and you will get the most out of this valuable opportunity.

You should always ask about teaching aids and technology before committing to a particular school or golf instructor. In some classes, the focus is on one area of play only, though most will offer an assessment of overall style, technique and swing. In some golf schools, students are videotaped and their performances analyzed through a computer program. This digital program can actually break down your game and style with swing and movement enhancers. Students wishing to learn new techniques can really benefit from this method of learning, because they are able to see their individual flaws. For example, when students see themselves on the screen, they are able to recognize and analyze their swing problems. Better still, they can actually see the improvements made over time.

When you take golf lessons in a school setting, you can feel like you're in a pressure cooker of data, information and constructive criticism. All this stress pays off, however, when you get out there and show off your new skills. If the class setting isn't right for you, join a smaller group or consider signing up for private instruction. Your local high school, college, community centre or golf course may have lessons available. Ask around and get on the way to becoming a better golfer.