How small improvements around the green lead to big changes in your score.
Develop a Consistent Chipping Technique
Great chipping starts with a simple, repeatable motion. Many golfers struggle because they rely on too many swing variations or try to “lift” the ball. Instead, keep your hands slightly ahead of the clubhead, maintain steady rhythm, and let the loft do the work. Practicing consistent contact helps you control distance, launch, and roll—essential elements for getting up and down more often.
Master Distance Control
Distance control is one of the most underrated skills in golf, especially around the green. Whether you’re hitting a bump-and-run or a lofted pitch, knowing how far the ball will travel with different swing lengths is crucial. The best players use a consistent tempo and vary only the size of their backswing. This helps build a feel-based system that works under pressure and adapts easily to different lies and green speeds.
Fine-Tune Your Putting Fundamentals
Putting is the foundation of the short game, and small improvements here can instantly lower scores. Focus on a quiet lower body, steady head position, and a smooth, pendulum-like stroke. Good speed control is more important than perfect aim—the closer your first putt finishes to the hole, the easier the second becomes. Spend time practicing putts from 3–6 feet to sharpen confidence on the ones that matter most.
Build Trust Through Practice
The short game rewards repetition. Spending even 15 minutes practicing chips and putts can make a huge difference on the course. Use practice sessions to build trust in your technique so that when you’re under pressure, you can rely on instinct instead of overthinking. Consistent short game practice translates directly to lower scores and more enjoyable rounds.
Final Thoughts
Mastering the short game doesn’t require power—it requires patience, feel, and focused practice. By improving contact, controlling distance, and building confidence on the greens, any golfer can shave strokes and elevate their overall game. The secret is consistency: small efforts add up to big gains.
Love the focus on fundamentals. Too many players overlook putting basics. When I started practicing short putts daily, my scores dropped fast.
Great article. Practicing different swing lengths has helped me big time. Amazing how simple changes make a huge difference.
This is exactly what I needed. My long game is fine, but I lose so many strokes around the green. The advice on distance control really hit home.