How to Chip a Golf Ball a Precise Distance

Ever try to pitch a ball and it goes 70, or vise versa? Some people call this a chip some a pitch.... this covers the awkward partial shot.

EditSteps

1. Determine how far you want the ball to fly in the air and how far you want it to roll once it hits the ground.
   
2. You can imagine ten yard increments; remember a football field?
   
3. Determine how high you want the ball to fly, ie. over a tree or bush, etc.
   
4. Choose a club with a loft that will get you over any obstruction first. The higher the number on the iron, the higher the ball will go. The lower the number, the lower it will go. For example, a 9 iron or pitching wedge will have your ball go much higher than a 3 or 4 iron.
   
5. During practice, simulate various ball flights and trajectories that may arise during the round. Practice with various clubs in your bag to achieve an ideal height.
   
6. Try taking the club back a measured distance for each length of shot. For example, with a lob wedge you may take the club back 1/2 way for a shot, 3/4 back for a shot, etc. Move the ball an inch or two back in your stance to help avoid 'fat' hits.
   
7. Practice with your own clubs to determine which club to use for various distances and heights and amount of roll
   
8. Keep your wrists fairly 'quiet' (minimal movement) and ahead of the club head.
9. Distance in the air is primarily determined by the length of the backswing.
   

EditTips

• Remember that hitting down on the ball is what makes it go up in the air.
• Practice, practice, practice. There is no one right way to hit a golf ball. Take some time, try a few things, and figure out what works for you, personally.
• Don't look up before the ball leaves the club face
• Let the club do the work
• Don't swing harder to get the ball to go farther. It is more important to hit the ball in the middle of the clubface.
• Follow through with about the same pace on all shots.
• It can be tough on short shots, but it is important to accelerate through impact. Slowing down on the downswing leads to mishits.
• Don't give up if you're having trouble! Golf is supposed to be fun. If you are not having a good time, take a break, or try to think up a game to

EditWarnings

• Take some time on the practice area before attempting on the golf course, the people behind you will thank you.

EditThings You'll Need

• Lob Wedge, Sand Wedge, and Pitching wedge

EditRelated wikiHows

• Flop a Golf Ball
• Get a Better Golf Swing
• Re Grip Golf Clubs
• Prepare for Golf
• Hit a Normal Pitch Shot
• Use a Lob Wedge