The differences between a chip and pitch shot can be measured in two ways – the length of swing and the amount of spin imparted on the ball.

A chip shot is generally a low running shot which lands on the green and releases towards the target. It’s a technique controlled with the arms and shoulders and doesn’t require much wrist hinge.

A pitch shot flies further through the air with more backspin which causes the ball to stop quicker when it hits the green. It’s a technique which involves the wrists hinging to create more backspin.

Differences In Technique

Playing a chip shot:

1. Set the club face square to the ball-to-target line.

2. Take a slightly narrower stance with the ball positioned just back of centre and set the feet slightly open to the target. This pre-sets the lower body for impact. The shoulders should still be parallel to the ball-to-target line.

3. Press the hands forward of the ball, opposite the front thigh. Leaning the shaft slightly towards the target will help ensure a clean contact with the ball.

4. Place about 60% body weight on the front foot.

5. Swing the club away with the arms and try to keep wrist movement to a minimum.

6. At impact, the hands should return to a similar position as they were at address, slightly ahead of the ball.

7. Keep your swing approximately the same length back and through.

8. Through impact, keep the left wrist firm; don’t flick at the ball with the right hand.

Playing a pitch shot:

1. Set the club face square to the ball-to-target line.

2. Set your stance shoulder width apart (not outside the shoulders) – for pitching the ball can be played from the middle, front or back of the stance. The different ball positions will produce different ball flights.

From the back of the stance, the ball will fly low with lots of spin, from the front the ball will fly high with less spin.

3. Place 60% of your weight on the front foot with your hands opposite the front thigh.

4. For pitching, lean the shaft slightly forward to encourage a downward strike.

5. The swing changes to a pitch from a chip when the wrists begin to hinge upwards.

Being aware of these differences and therefore choosing the correct club and shot selection will help to improve your short game further.