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When a PGA pro hits an approach shot, it usually holds the green. However, when a recreational golfer hits an approach shot, it doesn’t always hold the green. In fact, the shot often runs off the green onto a sideslope This leaves him or her with a tricky little pitch shot, especially if the lie is above the player’s feet.Keep these five keys in mind when hitting form a slide slope:

1. Choose the right club
2. Keep weight on toes
3. Don’t extend your arms
4. Grip down on club
5. Swing a little harder
The key to this shot is deciding where to aim. The ball usually falls in the direction of the slope on short shots, just like with long shots. With the ball above your feet, the more loft you use, the more the ball will go left. Experience will tell you which club to use and how far left the ball will go with that loft.

Keep your weight more on your toes to stay in balance. Don’t extend your arms, since you need the break in your wrists to play the shot. Grip down on the club and swing a little harder to compensate for the shorter swing arc. If you have some rough in front of you on the shot, try using a sand wedge and making ball first contact.

Find a green with a sideslope and practice hitting different clubs from different lies. This will give you an opportunity to find out which club you’re most comfortable with when hitting this shot. Keep a close eye on how far left each shot goes, then make adjustments accordingly. The goal is to get the ball close enough for a short makeable putt, which will cut strokes off your score.

 From How to Break 80 Newsletter