The infamous slice… that unwanted effect where the ball sharply veers to the right (for right-handed players) right after impact. If you’ve ever seen your ball curve helplessly toward the trees or get lost in the rough, you know exactly what we mean. The good news is you’re not alone: it’s one of the most common mistakes in golf, especially among amateurs. And yes, it can be fixed. Here’s a clear and effective guide on how to do it.
What exactly is a slice?
A slice occurs when the ball spins excessively from left to right after impact (for right-handed players), caused by a misaligned club path and clubface. In most cases, the club moves “outside to inside” at impact with the clubface open relative to the swing path. The result is that frustrating side spin.
Step 1: Check your grip
The grip is one of the key factors in causing a slice. A weak grip (where little of the left hand’s knuckles are visible in a right-handed player) makes it easier for the clubface to be open at impact.
How to fix it:
Place your hands so that, when looking down at the grip, you can see at least two knuckles of your left hand. Make sure both hands work together and your left thumb is slightly to the right of center on the grip. This small adjustment can make a big difference.
Step 2: Fix your swing path
Many players slice because they swing the club from outside to inside, crossing the target line. This path combined with an open clubface is a perfect recipe for a slice.
How to fix it:
Work on swinging “from inside to outside.” Imagine the ball is at the center of a clock, and your swing should go from 7 to 1 o’clock. A good drill is placing a towel or rod parallel to the ground outside the ball to prevent the club from coming over the top.
Step 3: Check your ball position
Placing the ball too far forward in your stance can cause the clubface to be too open at impact, promoting a slice.
How to fix it:
For woods and driver, the ball should be aligned with your front heel. For irons, position it a bit more centered. Adjusting this helps the club arrive in a better position at impact.
Step 4: Close the clubface at impact
Many players don’t realize they arrive with the clubface too open. Learning to slightly close the face at the right moment is key.
How to fix it:
Take very gentle practice swings focusing on turning your forearms slightly at impact to close the face. The trick is not to force the motion but to internalize it progressively. You can also practice shots at 50% power until you notice the slice effect disappears.
Step 5: Trust and practice
Fixing a slice usually doesn’t happen overnight. It requires repetition, patience, and above all, trust in the change. Many players unconsciously revert to old habits out of fear of failure when trying to fix their swing.
How to overcome it:
Record yourself at the driving range, compare your movements, and repeat them consciously. First practice without a ball, then with soft swings, and finally at full speed. If possible, get help from a coach for personalized feedback.
Conclusion
Fixing a slice is completely possible if you know where to look and apply the right adjustments. Check your grip, swing path, ball position, and learn to close the clubface at the right moment. With practice and patience, those shots that used to veer right will start flying straight… or even with a slight draw. Then the course will open up before you like never before.
