How to Stop the Slice in Golf: A Complete Guide

The slice is arguably the most common swing flaw that plagues amateur golfers. This frustrating ball flight, which curves dramatically from left to right for right-handed golfers, can rob you of both distance and accuracy. As a golf instructor with years of experience helping players overcome their slice, I’ll share a comprehensive approach to finally straightening out your ball flight.

Understanding the Slice

What Causes a Slice?

Before we can fix the slice, we need to understand what causes it. A slice occurs when:

1. The clubface is open relative to the swing path at impact
2. The swing path is typically out-to-in (cutting across the ball)
3. The combination creates excessive side spin
4. Poor weight transfer often compounds the problem

The Physics Behind the Slice

The science of a slice involves:

• Spin axis tilt causing the ball to curve right
• Higher than optimal launch angle
• Increased backspin reducing distance
• Side spin creating the curved ball flight
• Impact point typically toward the heel of the club

Step-by-Step Slice Correction

1. Grip Fundamentals

The foundation of fixing your slice starts with your grip:

Proper Lead Hand Position

• Strengthen your grip by turning your lead hand more to the right
• See 2-3 knuckles on your left hand (for right-handed golfers)
• Feel the grip more in your fingers than your palm
• Keep pressure consistent (5-6 out of 10)

Trail Hand Position

• Place your right hand so it complements the left
• Avoid the “weak” position that promotes an open face
• Feel your right palm facing more toward the target
• Maintain unified hand action

2. Setup Adjustments

Your address position plays a crucial role in preventing the slice:

Ball Position

• Move the ball slightly back in your stance
• Center the ball for irons
• Position just inside your lead heel for driver
• Maintain consistent ball position for each club

Alignment

• Square your shoulders to the target line
• Avoid aiming too far left (a common compensation)
• Keep your feet parallel to target line
• Use alignment sticks for feedback

Body Positioning

• Athletic posture with slight knee flex
• Spine tilted slightly away from target
• Arms hanging naturally
• Weight distributed evenly

3. The Backswing

Proper backswing mechanics help prevent the slice:

Takeaway

1. Keep the clubhead outside your hands
2. Maintain connection between arms and body
3. Rotate your torso rather than lifting your arms
4. Feel the club working around your body

Top of Backswing Position

• Complete shoulder turn
• Maintain width in your swing
• Keep the clubface stable
• Avoid excessive wrist hinge

4. Downswing Path Correction

The downswing is where most slicers go wrong:

Transition Move

1. Start with lower body rotation
2. Drop arms down toward your body
3. Shallow the club in transition
4. Maintain connection with your torso

Impact Zone

• Swing from inside to outside
• Feel like you’re hitting to right field
• Maintain forward shaft lean
• Release the club naturally

5. Follow-Through Elements

A proper finish helps ensure proper path and face control:

1. Rotate fully through impact
2. Allow your arms to release
3. Finish high and balanced
4. Hold your finish position

Common Mistakes and Fixes

Mistake 1: Over-the-Top Move

The classic slice move starts with coming over the top in transition.

Solution:

• Feel your right elbow dropping to your side
• Start downswing with hip rotation
• Keep back facing target longer
• Allow arms to fall naturally

Mistake 2: Early Extension

Standing up through impact promotes an out-to-in path.

Solution:

• Maintain spine angle through impact
• Feel like you’re staying in posture
• Keep your belt buckle pointing down longer
• Practice with a chair behind you

Mistake 3: Weak Grip Pressure

Inconsistent grip pressure leads to face control issues.

Solution:

• Maintain consistent pressure throughout swing
• Practice with a grip pressure sensor
• Feel pressure in your last three fingers
• Avoid tensing up at impact

Practice Drills to Stop Slicing

Drill 1: Path Trainer

Setup:

1. Place alignment stick in ground at angle
2. Practice swinging under the stick
3. Feel the inside-out path
4. Start with half swings and progress to full

Drill 2: Towel Drill

1. Place towel on target line outside ball
2. Practice hitting shots without touching towel
3. Forces inside-out swing path
4. Provides immediate feedback

Drill 3: Gate Drill

Setup:

• Create gate with alignment sticks
• Position to promote inside path
• Start with short shots
• Progress to full swings

Building Your Anti-Slice Practice Routine

Warm-Up Phase (15 minutes)

1. Stretch key muscle groups
2. Practice grip and setup
3. Make slow-motion swings
4. Hit half-shots focusing on path

Technical Practice (30 minutes)

1. Work on grip changes
2. Practice path drills
3. Hit shots with swing thought focus
4. Use feedback devices

On-Course Implementation

1. Start with conservative targets
2. Use alignment aids on course
3. Commit to new swing thoughts
4. Keep track of progress

Equipment Considerations

Driver Settings

• Adjust face angle to closed
• Consider higher loft
• Use draw-bias settings if available
• Proper shaft flex important

Club Fitting

1. Get proper lie angles
2. Consider shaft characteristics
3. Match club specs to swing
4. Regular fitting updates

Advanced Concepts

Working with Different Clubs

Driver

• Tee height adjustments
• Width of stance
• Ball position
• Setup variations

Irons

• Forward shaft lean
• Divot direction
• Compression focus
• Path adjustments

Wedges

• Setup modifications
• Face control
• Path variations
• Release pattern

Shot-Specific Adjustments

For different situations:

1. Wind conditions
2. Lie variations
3. Target requirements
4. Risk assessment

Mental Game

Confidence Building

• Trust the changes
• Accept the process
• Celebrate small wins
• Stay patient

Course Strategy

1. Choose appropriate targets
2. Plan for new ball flight
3. Smart club selection
4. Risk management

Progress Tracking

Measurements to Monitor

1. Ball flight consistency
2. Dispersion patterns
3. Distance gains
4. Confidence levels

Technology Tools

• Launch monitor data
• Video analysis
• Shot tracking apps
• Performance metrics

Troubleshooting Guide

When the Slice Returns

Check these elements:

1. Grip pressure
2. Setup position
3. Swing path
4. Face control
5. Impact position

Making Adjustments

Process for fixes:

1. Review fundamentals
2. Use feedback devices
3. Return to drills
4. Seek professional help if needed

Long-Term Success Strategies

Maintenance Practice

1. Regular grip checks
2. Setup routine
3. Path drills
4. Face awareness

Skill Development

• Progress to new shots
• Build on fundamentals
• Expand shot options
• Increase consistency

Conclusion

Eliminating your slice requires dedication, patience, and proper practice. Focus on:

• Understanding the cause
• Making fundamental changes
• Consistent practice
• Proper feedback
• Mental game development

Remember that lasting change takes time. Stay committed to the process, track your progress, and celebrate the small victories along the way. With proper technique and practice, you can overcome your slice and enjoy straighter, longer shots on the golf course.