If you are a beginner golfer then expect to make embarrassing shots every now and again. In fact, it's the only way you can learn.

One such embarrassing mistake, worse than making a thin or fat shot, is the topped shot. A top shot is what happens when you make your swing and the clubhead barely grazes the ball. It's a classic beginner golfer swing which barely sends the ball drizzling just a few feet away.

What Causes A Topped Shot?

The ball is topped when a golfer's body tends to move up and down throughout the entire swing, thus causing the head of the club to rise up immediately prior to impact.

How Can A Topped Shot Be Avoided?

You can prevent this frustrating and embarrassing mistake from happening by simply keeping your head as level as you possibly can during the swing. Be conscious of any up and down movements that you might be making with your body. And lastly, try to have your swing recorded with a camcorder so that you can see exactly what needs to be tweaked with your golf swing technique