Golf Chipping Instructions and Tips

The chip shot is used from just off the edge of the green where the grass is too long for putting.

The chip shot is used from just off the edge of the green where the grass is too long for putting. The chip is also appropriate at points up to about 30 yards from the green, where the distance from the ball to the edge of the green is less than the distance from the edge of the green to the hole. In general, the club of choice from the chip shot is one that propels the ball several feet onto the green, with the ball then rolling like a putt for the majority of the distance to the hole. Anything from a 6 iron to a wedge may achieve this objective under various circumstances. A little experimentation may be required from different positions around the green to determine the best club selections for you.

Grip

Because chipping requires a bit more wrist action that does putting, the standard Vardon overlapping grip is the grip of choice, in contrast to the reverse overlapping grip recommended for putting.

Stance

The shallower angel and greater length of the shaft of the 7 and 8 iron, in contrast to the more upright angle and shorter shaft of the putter, will require standing a little farther away from the ball when chipping as compared to putting. An open stance (left foot drawn back from the target line a few inches) may also be desirable, enabling a better view of the hole and target line.

Body Position

Standing a little farther from the ball when chipping as compared to when putting, the body posture is slightly more upright and the eyes are not as much over the ball as is the case in putting.

The Swing

Despite these differences between chipping and putting, the more similar the techniques of the two shots, the simpler the short game. So, keep the backstroke short, accelerate through the ball, and, above all, keep the head very still. Again, just listen for the result.