How to Fix a Driver Slice Without Guessing
A ball that curves right does not identify the cause by itself. Start by recording where the ball begins, where it curves, and where it strikes the face. Then test one variable at a time. Directions below are for a right-handed golfer; reverse them if you play left-handed.
1. Separate start direction from curve
- Starts left, curves right: the face may be open relative to the club’s travel direction.
- Starts near the target, curves right: check whether the face stays open relative to the path.
- Starts right, curves farther right: both face direction and swing direction deserve attention.
- Starts right and flies straight: begin with alignment, because this may be a push rather than a slice.
Ball flight reflects the relationship between clubface and club path, but a single phone camera cannot measure either value precisely. Use these patterns to choose what to test, not as launch-monitor data.
2. Lock down setup before changing the swing
Hit five balls after the setup check without adding a swing thought. A consistent camera and target line make the comparison more useful.
- Place an alignment stick on the target line and record your feet and shoulders from behind.
- Check that your shoulders are not aimed far left while your feet appear square.
- Start with the ball near the inside of the lead heel, then adjust in small increments for your stance.
- Use a comfortable grip pressure; avoid making a large grip change and a path change at the same time.
3. Pick one drill for the pattern you see
- Start-line gate: place two tees safely in front of the ball to create a wide visual gate. Use waist-high swings and track the starting line.
- Path gate: place a soft headcover outside and behind the ball, clear of people. Begin with slow half-swings that miss the obstacle.
- Strike check: use face spray or impact tape for five shots. Repeated heel strikes can add fade spin, so test standing a small step farther away.
- Transfer: alternate three rehearsal swings with one normal pre-shot routine, increasing speed only while contact stays predictable.
4. Film a view you can repeat
- For down-the-line video, set the camera around hand height and aim it parallel to the target line.
- For face-on video, set the camera around hand or chest height and perpendicular to the target line.
- Keep your feet, hands, ball, and the club at the top inside the frame.
- Use bright light and 60 fps when available; avoid digital zoom.
- Save the clip with start direction, curve, and strike location notes.
5. Decide by pattern, not by one good ball
- Record five baseline shots and five shots after one change.
- Choose one outcome: start line, amount of curve, or strike location.
- Compare the average pattern rather than the best shot.
- Keep the change only if it holds up in a second practice session.
AI video feedback can estimate visible positions and timing and suggest a practice order. It cannot provide exact clubface or path measurements, replace an in-person coach, or diagnose pain. Stop if a drill hurts and consult an appropriate qualified professional.
Frequently asked questions
Can an outside-to-in path be the only cause of a slice?
No. Curve depends on the face relative to the path, and strike location can also affect driver flight. Record start direction and impact location before choosing a drill.
Should I strengthen my grip immediately?
A grip change may alter face control, but changing it abruptly can create a new compensation. Test a small change on half-swings while leaving other variables alone.
Can AI measure my club path from a phone video?
It can describe visible motion and estimate patterns, but it is not a launch monitor. Camera angle, frame rate, and motion blur limit numerical accuracy.