Fix Your Slice - Steve Pratt Golf's Clear Method

PGA Professional Steve Pratt provides clear, practical instruction that makes fixing your slice straightforward. His method focuses on fundamentals that work for golfers of all skill levels.

Unlike complex technical explanations, Steve's approach is practical and easy to understand. You'll learn exactly what to do, why it works, and how to practice it effectively.

You'll learn:

• The fundamental causes of slicing
• Clear, step-by-step fixes
• Effective practice drills
• Common mistakes to avoid

Let's fix your slice.

What Causes a Golf Slice?

A slice occurs when your clubface is open relative to your swing path at impact. For right-handed golfers, this creates left-to-right spin.

The Main Causes:

1. Coming over the top - Swinging from outside-in
2. Weak grip - Making it hard to square the clubface
3. Poor setup - Affecting your ability to swing correctly

Why It Matters:

A slice costs you distance and accuracy. Fixing it will help you hit straighter, longer shots.

Key Takeaways from Steve Pratt's Method

Steve's approach emphasizes:

• Fundamentals first - Get the basics right before adding complexity
• Clear instruction - Know exactly what to do and why
• Effective practice - Quality drills that produce results
• Patience - Change takes time, but it's worth it

Step-by-Step Breakdown

Step 1: Check Your Grip

What to do:

1. Place your left hand on the club so you can see 2-3 knuckles
2. Your right hand should cover your left thumb
3. Both "V's" should point toward your right shoulder

Why it works: A proper grip makes it easier to square the clubface naturally.

Step 2: Set Up Correctly

What to do:

1. Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart
2. Ball position: just inside your left heel for driver
3. Tilt your spine slightly away from the target
4. Feel balanced and ready to swing

Why it works: Proper setup makes it easier to swing from inside-out.

Step 3: Swing from Inside-Out

What to do:

1. Start your downswing with your lower body
2. Let your hips rotate first
3. Keep your right elbow close to your body
4. Feel like you're swinging around your body

Why it works: Starting with your lower body creates an inside-out path automatically.

Step 4: Square the Clubface

What to do:

1. Let your body rotation square the face
2. Don't manipulate with your hands
3. Feel your hands ahead of the clubhead at impact
4. Continue rotating through the ball

Why it works: Body rotation squares the face naturally. Hand manipulation is inconsistent.

Drills to Practice This Technique

Drill 1: Path Drill

Equipment: Alignment stick, your 7-iron

How to do it:

1. Place an alignment stick on the ground pointing at your target
2. Place another stick 6 inches inside (closer to you)
3. Practice swinging so your clubhead stays between the sticks
4. Focus on swinging from inside-out

Reps: 20-30 swings

Success marker: Your clubhead stays between the sticks on the downswing.

Drill 2: Impact Position Drill

Equipment: Impact bag, your driver

How to do it:

1. Set up to the impact bag
2. Focus on hitting with your hands ahead of the clubhead
3. Feel your body rotating through impact
4. The bag should move forward, not to the right

Reps: 20-30 swings

Success marker: You feel your hands leading. The bag moves forward.

Drill 3: Slow Motion Drill

Equipment: Your 7-iron

How to do it:

1. Make slow-motion swings focusing on sequence
2. Feel: lower body → hips → shoulders → arms
3. Gradually increase speed
4. Maintain the correct sequence

Reps: 15-20 slow swings, then 10-15 at normal speed

Success marker: You can feel the correct sequence. Your swing feels connected.

Common Mistakes When Trying This Fix

1. Trying to fix everything at once - Focus on one thing. Master it, then move on.

2. Swinging too hard - Speed comes from technique. Slow down and focus on the correct path.

3. Not practicing enough - You need to ingrain the new movement. Practice regularly.

4. Giving up too soon - You'll hit some bad shots while learning. That's normal. Stick with it.

5. Ignoring fundamentals - The grip and setup are the foundation. Get them right first.

Troubleshooting:

• Still slicing? Check your grip and setup first.
• Hooking now? Your grip might be too strong. Dial it back.
• Inconsistent? Focus on one thing at a time. Master it before moving on.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to fix a slice?

Most golfers see improvement within 2-3 weeks of consistent practice. Completely eliminating the slice typically takes 4-6 weeks. The key is quality practice, not just hitting balls.

Should I practice with my driver or irons?

Start with your 7-iron. It's easier to control and will help you feel the correct path. Once comfortable, move to longer clubs and finally your driver.

Do I need to change my equipment?

No. While equipment can help, technique is 90% of the solution. Fix your swing first, then consider equipment changes if needed.

What if I'm still slicing after trying this?

If you're still slicing after 4-6 weeks:

1. Double-check your grip—this is the most common issue
2. Record your swing and compare it to the instruction
3. Consider a lesson with a PGA professional
4. Make sure you're practicing correctly, not just hitting balls

Summary: Your Action Plan

Steve Pratt's method is clear and practical:

The Fundamentals:

• Proper grip (2-3 knuckles visible)
• Correct setup (balanced and athletic)
• Inside-out swing path (start with lower body)
• Square clubface (let body rotation do it)

Your Practice Plan:

• Week 1: Focus on grip and setup. Use slow-motion swings.
• Week 2: Add path work. Use alignment sticks.
• Week 3: Work on impact position. Use impact bag.
• Week 4: Combine everything. Hit balls with focus on technique.

Remember: Change takes time, but it's worth it. Focus on fundamentals, practice with purpose, and be patient with yourself.

The slice doesn't have to ruin your game. Start with the fundamentals today, and commit to consistent practice. You've got this.

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