How to Cure a Golf Slice

Many new golfers fall in love with the game the first time they take a swing at the ball and then see it fly straight down the middle. That feeling of the quiet but powerful click of the club head hitting the ball often brings the golfer back for more. However, a new golfer's poor shots may outnumber the good ones by a significant ratio. One of the most common mistakes is the slice. This mistake can be caused by both physical and mental errors.

Step 1

Address the ball in the proper manner. Make sure that your left shoulder (for a right-handed golfer) is facing the target. Your left foot should be directly underneath your left shoulder. Your feet should be shoulder-width apart, and your knees should be bent in an athletic position. Play the ball midway in your stance.

Step 2

Grip the club with the proper strength. If you grip the club too tightly, you will feel your fingers starting to tingle and you may get hand cramps. If you hold the club too loosely, the angle of the club head will change after impacting the ball. A weak grip is often the problem when slicing the ball. Grip the club similarly to a firm handshake with a new business associate.

Step 3

Work on the angle of attack when you hit the ball. You can attack the ball straight on, come at it from left to right or right to left. If you want to hit the ball straight, the best way to develop a consistent swing is to come straight at it. When you can come down the target line, you will tend to hit the ball straight and do it with consistency.

Step 4

Keep your hands back when you swing the golf club. Many golfers are so anxious about their golf swing that they rush the process. That means that their hands get through the ball before they should. That can cause a slice. Keep your hands back and let your hips get through the hitting zone before you make contact.

Tips and Warnings

Practice regularly at the driving range. Go at your own pace and don't rush your swing. Concentrate on a smooth and consistent swing. Don't worry about power until you hit the ball straight consistently.