So what is your reason for going to the practice range? Maybe it is to reduce stress in your day. Or you are trying to fit in a quick bucket to work on the lesson you just had? Or you really want to improve your game and enjoy it more? Before you venture out to the practice range, decide why you are going and take inventory of how you are feeling first. Some of us use golf as a way to relax and forget about everything that is happening around us. In order to practice better, do something for yourself to help your body relax such as exercising, stretching, get plenty of rest, or  listen to some calming music. Your frame of mind is important to be aware of before you practice.
 
One of the reasons golfers have difficulty transferring their practice to the golf course is the way in which they practice. Too often there is not enough focus, one ball is hit right after another without any thought process or having a target. When you get to the course, you always have a target. So, make sure you have a target and go through a process whereby you are trying to accomplish more than just hitting balls. The following technique takes discipline because you won't be striking the ball that much. Golfers usually put too much effort into their swing which results in mistakes. Here is a different way way to approach your practice. Start by imagining you have the club in your hands and make ten practice swings. Then, take the club and suspend the clubhead in the air and make another ten swings through the air. Thirdly, address the ground with the clubhead and make another ten swings. You should start noticing by now less effort in your swing. Finally, swing at 3-5 balls and see how you do. Repeat this process throughout your practice session. 
 
Another way to improve your practice is to get in front of a mirror and start visualizing your swing. Look at your swing from straight on and also from down the target line behind you. You can keep track of the clubhead and shaft position which are critical elements in determining the direction of the ball flight. Once you are more comfortable with the visualization process, you can start using it on the driving range, then take it out on the golf course.
 Effective practice techniques can help you play better because your focus will be centered around a specific goal you are trying to achieve. When you do go to the practice range, have a purpose in mind, not just to hit 100 balls in thirty minutes. Also realize that it will take going to the practice range on a consistent basis and using the techniques to improve how you practice. Try to become more aware of how you are practicing and make it more realistic to playing a round of golf. You can decide how you want to practice before you go to the range as well. If you feel you need to hit a lot of balls, (1) make sure you give yourself plenty of time to do so, (2) ALWAYS have a target and change your target, (3) use different clubs and practice shots you would have on the course, and (4) make sure you don't take a full swing every time. If your goal is to improve your play on the course and enjoy the game more, then the way you practice can help you achieve this. Remember, effective practice is not just associated with striking the golf ball.