How to Hit a Draw in Golf

July 1, 2025 Charles C. Elliott

If you want to take your game to the next level, learning how to hit a draw in golf can help. A draw shot shapes from right to left (for right-handed golfers) and affords you more control, distance and accuracy. The draw is used by many professional golfers to shape shots, reach safer paths around or through tree cover, and in general gain predictability for their shots.

What Is a Draw in Golf?

A draw is a golf shot that starts to the right of the target, and then curves back to the left. Draw: To a left-handed golfer, a draw curves from left to right.

It’s not a slice, which is a wild shot that curls way too much in the wrong direction. A draw is a controlled, powerful fade that golfers hit on purpose.

Also Read: How to Increase Swing Speed Safely

Why Learn to Hit a Draw?

There are many good reasons to learn how to hit a draw in golf.

More distance: After landing, the draw rolls out farther.
Improved control: It’s more controllable when shaping the ball around trees or doglegs (curved fairways).
Greater ball flight: Often, a draw has a flatter, stinger ball flight.

Also Read: How to Master the Golf Swing Fundamentals

How to Hit a Draw in Golf, Step by Step

Here are some novice-friendly ways to help you hit a draw. You don’t have to be a pro, but if you follow these basic steps and practice often, you’ll be able to hold your own.

Check Your Grip

Begin with a weak grip. That is to say, turning your hands a bit to the right (for right-handers) on the handle of the club.

You will see 2–3 knuckles on your left hand when taking hold of the club.
Your right hand position should be more under the club.

A strong grip helps the golfer close the clubface during the swing, which adds draw spin to the golf ball as it flies.

Aim Your Body Right for the Shot

To hit a draw, set up with your feet, hips and shoulders aimed slightly to the right of the target.

This is known as “open to the clubface, closed to the target.”
Ensure your clubface is pointed at the target.

This puts you on the proper swing path — which is inside to out.

Swinging From the Inside-Out

The swing path is what comes next and this is the most important part.

This focuses your line of tension on your body, not the target.
Your club should go from inside to outside, meaning it should go behind you on the way down and outward after contact.

This swinging motion will help generate the side spin that will make the ball hook left.

Keep the Clubface Slightly Closed

The clubface should be a little closed to the swing path but open to the target.

Too close and the ball will hook.
If you open it up too much, you risk the ball fading or slicing.

Try to roll with the feel of this subtle difference. It can make a big impact.

Finish the Swing Smoothly

Good follow through will also ensure the shot is finished correctly.

Allow the hands to release.
End with your chest facing the target and your back heel popped.

Don’t attempt to manipulate the draw, let the clubs do the work.

Practice Techniques for Hitting a Draw

Here’s some additional advice to help you get better:

Lay clubs on the ground or use alignment sticks to help guide your aim and swing direction.
Begin with the short irons before attempting to draw with the longer clubs or the driver.
Take a video of your swing or have a friend video your swing and clubface results.
Take it to the range, and therefore, take it to the course.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is a draw in golf?

Ans: A shot that curves from right to left.

2. Is a draw the same as a slice?

Ans: No, a slice curves too much.

3. Why hit a draw?

Ans: More distance and control.

4. What grip helps with a draw?

Ans: A strong grip.

5. How should I aim my body?

Ans: Slightly right of target.

6. Where to aim the clubface?

Ans: At the target.

7. What is the swing path?

Ans: From inside to outside.

8. Club face at impact?

Ans: Slightly closed.

9. How do you finish the swing?

Ans: Chest to target, heel up.

10. Should I force a draw?

Ans: No, let it happen.