One of 18 on a golf course - NYT Crossword Clue

Introduction

Today's clue, "One of 18 on a golf course," is a classic example of a straightforward, knowledge-based clue often found in early-week puzzles. It tests a piece of common knowledge related to the sport of golf, making it an accessible entry point for many solvers.

Clue Analysis

The clue provides two key pieces of information:

1. "One of 18": This immediately signals that the answer is a member of a set that famously contains 18 items.
2. "on a golf course": This specifies the context, narrowing the possibilities down to the world of golf.

When you combine these two elements, the number 18 is a dead giveaway. A standard, regulation game of golf is played over a course with 18 distinct sections. The name for each of these sections is the answer we're looking for.

Thinking Approaches

For most solvers, this clue will trigger an immediate association. The phrase "18 holes of golf" is a common idiom.

1. Direct Recall: The solver reads the clue and their brain instantly connects "18" and "golf course" to the answer. This is the most common path for this type of clue.
2. Using Crossings: If the answer doesn't come to mind immediately, getting a single crossing letter would be a huge help. For a four-letter answer, seeing an 'H' at the beginning or an 'L' in the third position would likely make the answer click.
3. Process of Elimination: A solver might ask, "What else is there 18 of on a golf course?" There are 18 teeing grounds and 18 greens, but the most fundamental unit of play, encompassing the tee, fairway, and green, is known by a single, common term.

Background Context

A golf course is the playing surface for the game of golf. While designs vary, the standard layout consists of 18 segments. Each segment is called a "hole," which refers to both the entire playing area from tee to green and the physical cup in the ground where the ball must end up. The tradition of 18 holes was standardized at the Old Course at St Andrews in 1764.

Conclusion

This clue is a perfect example of a fair and accessible crossword entry. It relies on widely-held general knowledge rather than obscure trivia or tricky wordplay. For new and experienced solvers alike, clues like this are satisfying to fill in quickly, helping to build momentum for the rest of the puzzle.

Hints

1. Hint 1: Something you aim for in golf.
2. Hint 2: It's a physical feature of the course.
3. Hint 3: It's also a term for one complete segment of play, from tee to green.

The answer is HOLE.