With the ever-increasing popularity of golf among both men and women, there's a constant quest for the next gadget that will help players improve at the game. And - as is the case in almost any market - there's no shortage of companies offering gadgets and gizmos promising just that. So how do you know what will work and what won't? Here are some things you can do.

Listen to friends, pros and fellow golfers. There's no doubt that you'll get some bad advice, so listen to the entire statement about a particular item. For example, if someone tells you that he wasted $20 on a gadget that was supposed to help his swing, find out why it didn't work. It could be that the very reason it didn't work for your friend would be the reason it does work for you. For example, if your friend is battling a consistent slice and your problem is distance, that gadget may help you out - even though it was no help to your friend.

Another point about golf gadgets is to evaluate what the product claims to do and how. Remember that golf is a sport that requires time, practice and effort. There are no "magic" gadgets or golf tips that will suddenly make your game improve. If you find those gadgets that make outlandish claims, be wary. Your grandmother had some good advice when she said, "If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is."

Before you buy golf gadgets that are supposed to help, consider how they work. It may be that a putting game or some other video gadget is a great idea, but only if you have what it takes to make it work. Don't buy expensive equipment to evaluate your swing if it requires more hard drive space than you have.