Once a golfer has learned the basics of the swing and can hit the ball competently off the tee and from the fairway, the focus seems to turn to improving one's score. While most golfers will tell you that the best way to improve your score is too focus on each shot, most golfers quickly learn that developing your short game -- chipping, pitching and putting -- will help you lower your score.
Step 1
Learn how to pitch the ball when you are within 100 yards of the green. If you are in the fairway or short rough from 80 to 100 yards away from the pin, you need to get the ball to within 15 to 20 feet on a consistent basis. You do this by taking a slightly wider stance than normal and coming down on the ball to drive it up in the air. A strong follow through will allow you to hit a shot that stops shortly after hitting the green
Step 2
Get creative when you hit a chip-and-run shot. If you are facing a shot from 70 yards or less and there are no hazards in your way as you look at the green, you may want to hit a low chip-and-run to get the ball to the green. This is an easier shot for less accompished golfers to master than the chip. Take the club back to about mid-thigh level and follow through the same distance after making contact. Do not break your wrists on contact and keep your head down in order to hit it squarely.
Step 3
Use a lob wedge when your are less than 50 yards from the hole. A lob wedge has a 60 degree loft and it will allow the golfer to hit the ball high in the air and stop or roll backwards after it lands on the green. You will not get much distance with this club, but you will get great height and the ability to land your ball softly on the green.
Step 4
Practice your putting stroke at least three times a week on the practice green or in your living room. The best way to putt is to get 15 feet behind your ball on the green and study the terrain. Then walk the length of the putt to see if you can see any breaks or uneven spots. Then, walk up to your ball, take one practice stroke and then hit the ball. Do not stand over your putt for more than 15 seconds or take three or four practice swings. That will only lead to tension. Again, take one practice swing and hit it.
Step 5
Hit your pitching wedge and lob wedge when you go to the driving range. These are the clubs -- along with your putter -- that will help you improve your score more than any other clubs. Hit 20 shots with each of these clubs on every trip to the range.
Tips and Warnings
- Think about your stance, grip and swing when you go to the course. Do not concentrate on the number you write down on your scorecard. That will take care of itself.
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