Developing a proper golf grip is perhaps one of the most subtle aspects of the game. It’s mostly based on feel, so it’s extremely difficult to describe. It can also be difficult to achieve since there aren’t many methods than can be universally applied to this crucial part of your swing.

One tip that can ensure proper pressure in your left hand is what is often referred to as ‘short-thumb’ technique.

Taking one’s usual grip on the club, with the left thumb extended straight down the shaft, slide the thumb upward about an inch. This will increase the tightness of the hold in the last two fingers of your hand. This is precisely where you want a firm grip.

Grip, stance, posture –all these things are important when setting up a golf shot, but perhaps the single most important feature is alignment. After all, a tiny change in the alignment of your shot can result in massive differences in where the ball ultimately lands –as in the rough instead of the fairway. Pay close attention to the alignment of your shot, it has the biggest impact on how you aim for the target.

A good tip is to focus everything on your clubface. Before you adopt your stance and grip, and set your club behind the ball so that it’s facing the target. Adopt your stance, and adjust your club face gently until it’s in the precise position aiming at the target. When that’s locked in go through with the rest of your grip and address.