As with any shot around the green, tempo is key. In the sand trap, tempo helps but you must remember that the sand will push the ball out of the trap.

A common mistake golfers make is that a bunker shot is like any other and a normal swing plane is required. The bunker shot requires some adjustment to stance and swing, especially if it is a green-side bunker.

First, judge the distance and pick a landing spot. Always give yourself a target so that you can put an image of the shot in your head. Then, open your stance and set the ball towards the front foot. Finally, use an upright swing plane and hit down into the sand about an inch behind the ball.

Hitting an inch behind the ball will allow the force of the sand to push the ball out of the trap towards your target. For shots closer to the pin, use more of an open face. To gain more distance, keep the face square. Regardless, the upright swing plane will remain the same.

When on the range, draw a line in the sand to focus on a spot and remember. Focus on the line and not the ball. Hitting into the sand, rather than making contact with the ball, will give you the results that you want.