Each shot in golf has its own purpose and technique, and understanding these can significantly enhance your gameplay. As a beginner (or struggling golfer), understanding and then learning the different shots is key to improving your game. Let's dive into the world of golf shots and explore drives, iron shots, pitches, chips, and putts.

The drive is arguably the most exhilarating shot in golf. It's the shot you take at the tee box, aiming to cover as much distance as possible. Drives are performed with a driver, the longest club in your bag with the largest head, designed for maximum distance. When to use it? Typically, you'll use a drive on par-4 and par-5 holes to get as close to the green as possible in one shot.

Iron shots come into play when you're a fair distance away from the green. The goal here is accuracy over distance. Irons are numbered from 1 to 9, with lower numbers indicating longer shots. (However, it’s very unusual to see iron sets that include a 1 or 2 iron anymore, and many sets start with a 4-iron. Your clubfitter will help you know what irons you need.) You'll use these on your approach to the green, selecting the appropriate iron based on the distance and desired trajectory.

A pitch shot is a short, high shot that lands softly on the green with minimal roll. It's a finesse shot that requires a good sense of distance and control. You'll typically use a high-lofted wedge for this shot (like a 60 or 58 degree wedge), and it's ideal when you're close to the green but need to navigate over a hazard/obstacle.

Chips are short shots taken around the green, usually when you're just off the green and need to get the ball rolling towards the hole. A chip shot will have a lower trajectory and more roll than a pitch. The key to a good chip is to choose the right club; this could be anything from a lob wedge to a seven-iron, depending on the distance and the roll you need. Ask you coach for help understanding which club to use when.

The putt is the final shot used to roll the ball into the hole. A successful putt requires an understanding of the green's contours, the ball's speed, and what line (or direction) you want the ball to start rolling on. Putters are the clubs used for this shot.. Putts are used on the green, and getting proficient at putting can significantly lower your scores.

Understanding when and how to use each of these shots can make a world of difference in your golf game. Your coach will work with you on each type of shot. Practice each shot to get a feel for the club and the swing required. Remember, golf is not just about power; it's about smart play and using the right shot at the right time.

Ideas and editing: Coach Karl
​Writing assitance: MS Copilot