Let’s be real, Everyone wants to know how to chip in golf, but most players don’t know where to start. You’ve probably hit a few solid drives, but then things fall apart as you approach the green. Chipping can either make or break your round. So how do you actually get it right?

Why Chipping Matters More Than You Think

You can have the longest drive on the course, but if your short game is sloppy, your scorecard’s going to show it. Chipping isn’t just about getting the ball close to the hole; it’s about giving yourself a chance to one-putt. And when you’re staring at the green from 30 yards out, a solid chip can save par and keep your score from blowing up. This is the moment where the small things, like ball position and club choice, pay off big.

Choosing the Right Club for the Chip Shot

Here’s the first hurdle: club selection. Most beginners automatically grab their lob wedge, thinking more loft means better results. Wrong. Depending on the lie, distance, and green speed, your best option might be anything from a 7-iron to a pitching wedge. A 7-iron works well for lower chips that run out more, while a lob wedge is for higher, softer landings. Understanding which club to use in different situations is half the battle when learning how to chip in golf.

Pro Tip: If you’re stuck between two clubs, go with the lower-lofted one to keep the ball rolling more, which is generally easier to control.

Ball Position and Weight Distribution: The Fundamentals

Where you place the ball in your stance is crucial. Too far back, and you risk digging the club into the ground. Too far forward, and you’ll thin the shot. The sweet spot is usually just behind the center of your stance. This allows for a slightly descending strike on the ball, which is key for a clean contact.

As for weight distribution, keep about 60-70% of your weight on your front foot. This helps you avoid falling back on the shot, which is one of the biggest chipping mistakes. It’s all about setting yourself up for success with a controlled, smooth motion.

The Swing: Keep It Simple

People love to overcomplicate the chipping swing, but here’s the truth—it’s basically just a putting stroke with a bit more wrist action. Keep your arms and hands quiet, and let your shoulders do the work. You’re not taking a full swing here, so there’s no need to muscle the ball. Less is more. Focus on accelerating through the ball, not decelerating at impact.

Pro Tip: When practicing your chipping technique, try landing the ball on a specific spot on the green and let it roll toward the hole. This will help you dial in both distance and accuracy.

Reading the Green for Your Chip Shot

Reading the green isn’t just for putting. Before you even take your stance, you should evaluate how the ball will break once it hits the ground. Is the green sloped? Is the grass longer on one side? These factors affect where you should land the ball and how much roll you’ll get. Visualize the ball’s entire journey from the moment it leaves your clubface to the moment it drops in the cup.

Common Mistakes When Learning How to Chip in Golf

• Decelerating on the Downswing: This kills the chip. Always accelerate through the ball.
• Overusing the Wrists: Your wrists should stay quiet. Too much flicking leads to inconsistent contact.
• Ignoring Green Conditions: Not accounting for uphill or downhill slopes results in poor distance control.

Practicing Chipping: Repetition is Key

Repetition is how you get better at anything, and chipping is no different. Set aside specific practice time to work on your chips, not just your drives and putts. Hit chips from different lies and distances to get a feel for how your ball reacts. Varying your practice will help you develop the touch and confidence you need when it counts during a round.

Next time you’re at the range, dedicate 15-20 minutes solely to chipping. Lay out targets at varying distances and try to land the ball as close as possible to each one. This will improve your distance control and feel.

Remember, the key to becoming a better golfer starts with mastering how to chip in golf, because the closer you get to the hole, the easier the game becomes.