In golf, what is a "chip" shot?
VerifiedAnswer: A short, low-flying shot played near the green, designed to roll along the ground towards the hole.
Explanation:
A chip shot is one of the most fundamental and frequently used techniques in golf, especially when you find yourself close to the green but not quite on it. This shot is designed to get your ball airborne for just a short distance before it lands and rolls toward the pin like a putt would.
The key characteristic of a chip shot is its low trajectory. Unlike a pitch shot that flies high in the air, a chip shot stays relatively close to the ground throughout its flight. You'll typically use this shot when you're anywhere from a few yards to about 30 yards away from the green, and there aren't any major obstacles like bunkers or water hazards between your ball and the hole.
When executing a chip shot, golfers usually choose clubs with less loft, such as a 7-iron, 8-iron, or 9-iron, though some players prefer using a pitching wedge or sand wedge depending on the situation. The club selection depends on how much green you have to work with and how far you want the ball to roll after it lands.
The technique for chipping involves a relatively short backswing and a controlled, smooth motion through the ball. Your weight should be slightly favoring your front foot, and the ball position is typically in the middle or slightly back of center in your stance. The goal is to make clean contact with the ball first, then the turf, creating that desired low flight followed by a predictable roll.
Chip shots are incredibly valuable because they help golfers save strokes around the green. Even if you miss the green with your approach shot, a well-executed chip can get you close enough to the hole for an easy putt, allowing you to save par or minimize the damage to your score. Professional golfers spend countless hours practicing their chipping because it's often the difference between a good round and a great one.
