Golf instructors will tell you the request they get most often is, ‘Teach me to make the golf ball back up on the green like the pros do.’

The first part of the equation is simple, but crucial: Play with a tour-level golf ball. Every major manufacturer makes a ball designed for pros and low-handicappers, who demand lots of backspin on their shots. While these balls are more expensive than so-called “distance balls,” they’re far more durable than in the past.

Next, producing lots of spin on short-iron shots requires striking the ball with a downward blow. Here’s a good drill for hitting down with the irons, starting with the wedges:

1. Take your stance with the ball positioned at or near the middle of your stance; the hands should be ahead of the ball and the shaft tilted toward the target.
2. Lift your right heel off the ground, balancing on the toes. Make your normal swing.
3. From this position, the club will travel downward through impact. You should contact the ball first, then the ground, producing a clean divot and plenty of spin.

You can also practice with a ball under the outside of your right foot for a similar effect.