Targeting a better golf game? Here's how to get better aim

This week we're talking about aim, or the squaring of the clubface to the target line.Aiming fundamentals remain the same whether you are about to roll a 12-inch putt or drive the ball 300 yards, so the process should never change for consistent results. You wouldn't aim a rifle or an arrow without sighting to a target, so don't aim your golf club recklessly either.The No. 1 key to alignment is being able to see an imaginary line that runs from the ball toward the intended target. The only place to see this imaginary target line is when standing behind the ball while letting your eyes drift back and forth from the target to the ball. It takes just a few seconds to establish a visual image, so don't rush.I prefer to pick a spot in front of the ball, in the turf no more than 18 inches out, perhaps a divot or discoloration in the grass to help as an intermediate target.It takes just a few seconds to establish a visual image, so don't rush.To square the clubface to the target line, simply use the leading edge of the club and set it perpendicular to this line. You can then position your feet and body to support the club head direction. I like to imagine that I am standing on a railroad track with my club head perpendicular to the outside track while my body is parallel to the inside track. Following this approach, you will be in a square position in which to swing towards the target.Don't worry if you feel a little open or closed to the line because it may feel slightly different to you from day to day.Your eyes sometimes will play tricks on you with alignment. Because everyone has binocular vision, being bent over and looking sideways, we may not always feel aligned. You may see the target more to the right or more to the left.Scotty Cameron once told me, "Trust squareness in your mind and you will trust it in your swing." Scotty's tip made the light bulb go on for me and has always given me confidence with my alignment. Drills for improvement 1) Place a T-square on the ground and practice setting up to it. Always practice with a line in front of you - this will help you feel the sensation of squareness. Try this at home in front of a mirror and your alignment will surely improve. 2) When at the range, practice your alignment sequence and you'll find that repetitions of a quality process will make it a consistent procedure.Shawn Kelly is a PGA professional at The Ridge Golf Club. He can be reached for questions or lessons at (530) 888-PUTT.