Carry distance is how far the ball flies before landing. Total distance includes roll.
Measure a pattern
Warm up and hit several shots with one club. Record a typical carry from solid contact and note how widely the shots spread. Do not let one unusually long strike become the number you expect every time.
Keep the misses in view
Knowing your solid-shot carry helps with club selection, but mishits still matter. Record the shorter common result too. A shot over water needs enough margin for your actual pattern.
Make a simple distance card
Write the club, comfortable carry, and any useful shorter swing. Recheck as contact improves. Range balls, weather, slopes, and conditions can change what you see.
Use the numbers wisely
Choose a safe landing area before choosing a club. Account for trouble short and long, and ask your coach when to adjust. Longer is not always better.