How to Hit a Cut in Golf

A cut shot, or fade, is when your right-handed swing sends the golf ball to the right, or to the left for left-handed golfers. Working the ball in either direction is essential to reducing your score for a round of golf.

Hitting a Cut

1. If you're playing right-handed, aim to an area slightly left of your actual target, about 10 to 15 yards.

2. If the pin is in the middle of a green, your aim would be to the left side of the green. For left-handed golfers, take the same approach, but aim to the right side of the green.

1. Align your body as if you were going to hit a straight shot to the off-side target. Position the ball as you normally would in your stance.

1. Open your stance by pulling back your lead foot about 8 to 9 inches.

2. Pull or drop your foot straight back, not fan, or point, your toes to the left. This stance will also open your hips.

1. Keep your shoulders square to your target. Now, turn the club grip to the right or left, depending upon your handedness (right for righties, left for lefties), opening the club's face.

1. Take your normal back swing.

2. Do not try to manipulate the swing path.

3. Your open stance and hips will provide the outside-in path you need. Finish with your normal downswing.