Tips for Players

How To Leave Yourself A Tap-in

When a golfer is indecisive, he or she usually gets themself in trouble. Not knowing whether to chip it or pitch it when you're 5 to 25 yards from the hole can cost you strokes. But when you're that close to the pin, the terms chip and pitch don't mean much. Realistically, you're either going to hit a high soft shot or a low running shot. And the key to both of those shots is your address position.

Here are six keys to the basic address position:

1. Take a narrow stance
2. Grip down on your wedge
3. Position the ball properly
4. Keep shoulders level
5. Use a downward stroke
6. Finish with hands high

Use the same address position for both shots, but make adjustments based on the type of shot. To hit a high shot, rotate the clubface open in your backswing and keep the club in front of your body. For a low shot, close the clubface and swing the club behind you a bit. Also, grip down on your wedge about an inch and a half for better control. And use a narrow stance, with your feet inside your shoulders.

For a low running shot, play the ball just back of center, with your weight stacked over your front leg. For a high soft shot, position the ball forward, with your weight evenly distributed.

The downswing is the same for both shots. So is your body movement. Rotate your body around your front leg and keep your shoulders level at impact, just as they were at address.

Now, finish with your hands high. You've done it right if the clubface position in your finish matches the one you've established in your backswing.

With these shots, all you have to do is make some simple adjustments based on the type of shot your making and you're good to go. Keeping this concept in mind when hitting those shots eliminates indecision. That, in turn, boosts self-confidence and helps you to get the ball close.