Golf is often won or lost within 100 yards of the hole. No matter how far you hit your drives, a strong short game is essential for lowering your score. Here are some simple tips to improve your chipping, pitching, and putting, making sure you save strokes where it matters most.

1. Get Comfortable with Chipping
Chipping is all about control and finesse. To improve, practice hitting different types of chips—low runners and high soft landings. Your stance should be narrow with most of your weight on your lead foot. Keep your hands slightly ahead of the ball and focus on making solid contact with the ball first, not the turf. A consistent, smooth stroke is key to controlling the ball's flight and roll.

2. Perfect Your Pitching
Pitch shots are often required when you’re a bit farther from the green or need to clear an obstacle. For this, use a higher lofted club like a wedge. The key to a good pitch is a slightly open stance and relaxed grip. Let your body rotate naturally through the swing and focus on landing the ball softly on the green with just the right amount of spin. Don’t try to overpower the shot—let the club do the work.

3. Putting: Focus on Consistency
Putting is where scores are truly made or broken. Many golfers get too caught up in aiming perfectly and forget the importance of a smooth stroke. Start by practicing short putts—3 to 6 feet—until you’re consistently sinking them. When you move to longer putts, focus on your distance control. The goal is to get the ball close enough to leave an easy second putt.

4. Practice with Purpose
When working on your short game, practice with clear goals in mind. Instead of hitting random shots, imagine yourself in real on-course situations. Set up challenging lies in the rough or bunker and practice getting out of those difficult situations. Challenge yourself to get as close to the hole as possible in a single shot.



By sharpening your short game, you’ll quickly see an improvement in your overall scores. These small shots can make a huge difference, and with consistent practice, you’ll become more confident and precise.