The chip shot is one of the highest-value skills a beginner can develop. You’ll use it on almost every hole — when you miss the green and need to get the ball close to the pin. Master this shot and you’ll save dozens of strokes per round.
What Is a Chip Shot?
A chip shot is a short, low shot played from just off the green. The ball spends a short time in the air and then rolls toward the hole — like a long putt that starts with a small hop. The goal is to get the ball as close to the pin as possible so you can one-putt and save par (or bogey).
Which Club to Use for Chipping
As a beginner, use your pitching wedge or 9-iron for most chip shots. The pitching wedge gives you enough loft to clear the fringe while keeping the ball low enough to roll. Once you’re comfortable, experiment with your 7-iron for longer chips where you need more roll.
How to Chip: Step by Step
- Narrow stance: Feet 6-8 inches apart, ball back in your stance
- Weight forward: 70% of your weight on your front foot — keep it there throughout
- Hands forward: Lean the shaft toward the target so your hands are ahead of the ball
- Quiet lower body: Minimal hip rotation — this is mostly an arms-and-shoulders shot
- Accelerate through: Don’t decelerate at impact — commit to the shot
- Hit ball first: Strike the ball before the ground — clean contact is everything
The Most Common Chipping Mistakes
- Scooping: Trying to lift the ball with your hands — trust the loft of the club
- Decelerating: Slowing down through impact causes thin or fat shots
- Standing too far: You should be relatively close to the ball for chips
- Wrong club: Using a sand wedge when you need roll — use a lower-lofted club
Practice at Home
Use a chipping net in your backyard or living room. Set a target at different distances and practice landing the ball on that spot consistently. Even 15 minutes of chipping practice per day will transform your short game within weeks.
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