When you start golf, it's tempting to spend all your time trying to hit the ball further. But the quickest way to lower your scores is the short game: putting, chipping, pitching and bunker play. These shots make up more than half the strokes in a typical beginner's round, and they're easier to learn than the full swing. Here's a simple introduction.
Why the short game matters for beginners
A beginner who takes three putts on most greens and two or three chips around each green can easily lose 20 or more strokes a round. Improving the short game is the fastest route to breaking 100. Read how to break 100.
Putting basics
- Grip: hold the putter lightly with the palms facing each other.
- Setup: eyes over or just inside the ball, feet shoulder-width apart.
- Stroke: rock the shoulders, keep the wrists quiet and make a smooth stroke of equal length back and through.
- Distance: longer putts need a longer stroke, not a harder hit.
- Aim: point the putter face first, then set your feet.
Read how to putt: fundamentals.
Chipping basics
A chip is a short, low shot that flies a little and rolls a lot. Use it close to the green.
- Club: 8 iron, 9 iron or pitching wedge.
- Setup: narrow stance, ball in the middle or slightly back, weight on the front foot.
- Stroke: a putting-style motion with little wrist hinge.
- Target: pick a spot to land the ball and let it roll.
Read how to chip in golf.
Pitching basics
A pitch flies higher and rolls less. Use it when there's rough or a bunker to carry.
- Club: pitching, gap or sand wedge.
- Setup: slightly wider stance, ball in the middle.
- Swing: a longer swing with some wrist hinge; turn your body through.
- Distance: controlled by the length of the swing.
Read wedge play: pitching and spin.
Bunker basics
- Club: sand wedge.
- Setup: dig your feet into the sand, open the clubface slightly and stand a little open.
- Swing: hit the sand about an inch or two behind the ball and swing through.
- Follow through: the sand carries the ball out.
Read how to hit bunker shots and golf bunker rules.
Choosing the right shot
| Situation | Shot |
|---|---|
| On the green | Putt |
| Just off the green, smooth ground | Putt or chip |
| Off the green, nothing in the way | Chip |
| Bunker or rough in the way | Pitch |
| In a bunker | Bunker shot |
Read chip or putt: how to decide.
A beginner's short-game practice session
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| 10 minutes | Short putts from 3 feet |
| 10 minutes | Long putts, focusing on distance |
| 15 minutes | Chips to different holes |
| 10 minutes | Pitches over a bunker or to a target |
| 5 minutes | Bunker shots, if allowed |
Read short-game practice plan.
Common beginner mistakes
- Trying to lift the ball instead of trusting the loft.
- Using a lob wedge for everything.
- Decelerating on chips and bunker shots.
- Neglecting putting practice.
- Looking up too early.
Etiquette around the green
Repair pitch marks, rake bunkers, don't walk on other players' putting lines and stand still while others putt. Read putting green rules and golf etiquette 101.
Frequently asked questions
Which club should a beginner use to chip?
A 9 iron or pitching wedge is a good starting point.
How often should beginners practise the short game?
Two or three short sessions a week make a big difference.
What's the hardest short-game shot for beginners?
Bunker shots often feel hardest, but a few lessons usually make them much easier.
The bottom line
The short game is where beginners can improve fastest. Learn basic putting, chipping, pitching and bunker technique, choose the simplest shot and practise little and often. For more help as a new golfer, read golf for beginners: the complete guide.