Solid contact and a descending blow are critical to a great chipping technique. To set up properly for a chip, start by placing your feet about a clubhead width apart and about a foot away from the ball. Then, take your lead foot and turn it out slightly and place it an inch behind the other foot. Doing so helps you get your weight shifted and your sternum aligned properly.

At the end of your swing, the end of your shoulder, your arm, and the club should all form a straight line. If you find yourself flipping the club outward awkwardly, it means you’re either trying to decelerate or fix a bad backswing by accelerating the swing too much.

Tip courtesy of Dale Abraham, PGA