Simple Short-Game Fundamentals
Few parts of the game cause more frustration than chipping. A bladed shot over the green or a chunked chip that barely moves can turn a good hole into a bad one in a hurry.
The truth is, chipping doesn’t need to be complicated. Great chippers rely on simple setup, good club selection, and a repeatable motion—not fancy wrist action or perfect timing.
This guide breaks down how to chip with confidence around the green, helping you get the ball closer, save strokes, and walk off the green feeling good about your short game. It’s part of the Golf Up North Fundamentals Series, built to simplify golf from tee to green.
A Quick Disclaimer
I should mention that I am not a professional golfer, instructor, or short-game wizard. Everything shared here is based on personal research and things that have helped me play slightly less bad golf. Some days they work great. Other days… not so much. Use what helps, ignore what doesn’t, and feel free to blame me only after your third-putt.
Why Chipping Matters More Than You Think
Most golfers don’t realize how many strokes they lose around the green.
- Missed greens lead to chip shots
- Poor chips lead to long putts
- Long putts lead to three-putts
Good chipping doesn’t mean holing everything—it means giving yourself makeable putts and avoiding big mistakes.
Chipping Setup: Keep It Simple
Great chips start with a quiet, balanced setup.
Stance & Weight
- Feet narrow and close together
- Weight favoring the lead foot (60–70%)
- Knees slightly flexed
This promotes clean, ball-first contact.
Ball Position: Control the Low Point
Ball position determines where the club strikes the ground.
- Ball in the center or slightly back in your stance
- Hands slightly ahead of the ball
- Shaft leaning toward the target
This setup helps prevent fat or bladed shots.
Club Selection: You Have More Options Than You Think
A wedge isn’t always the best choice.
General Rule
- More loft = higher flight, less roll
- Less loft = lower flight, more roll
Use:
- 7-iron or 8-iron for lots of green to work with
- Pitching wedge or sand wedge when you need more carry
Pick the club that allows the simplest motion.
The Chipping Motion: Short and Controlled
Chipping is not a mini full swing.
Swing Keys
- Short backswing
- Minimal wrist hinge
- Chest and arms move together
- Smooth acceleration through the ball
Think of it as a putting stroke with loft.
Contact & Follow-Through
- Strike the ball first
- Brush the turf lightly after impact
- Keep the club moving—no deceleration
A smooth follow-through ensures consistent distance.
Common Chipping Mistakes (and Fixes)
Too Much Wrist Action
Leads to inconsistent contact. Quiet the hands.
Trying to Lift the Ball
Let the loft do the work.
Decelerating
Commit to the shot and swing through.
Always Using a Lob Wedge
Choose the simplest option, not the fanciest.
Reading the Shot: Plan Before You Swing
Before every chip:
- Pick your landing spot
- Choose the club
- Visualize the rollout
Having a plan builds confidence.
Simple Practice Drill for Better Chips
The Landing Spot Drill
- Place a towel or tee on the green
- Try landing chips on that spot using different clubs
- Learn how rollout changes
This builds feel and trust quickly.
K.I.S.S.
Good chipping isn’t about perfection—it’s about reliability. Keep your setup simple, your motion short, and your mindset calm.
When you trust your chipping, you play freer golf and save strokes without even realizing it.
Up next in the Golf Up North Fundamentals Series: how to escape bunkers and get out in one shot.
