The safest way to approach the green is to keep the ball reasonably close to the ground.

But occasionally, when your path is blocked by something like a bunker and you have very little green to work with, you need a much higher 'lob' shot.

Tiger Woods has perfected this shot and makes it look easy.

But it can be risky as it is technically difficult.

So if the ground is bare, forget it.

Here's our guide to the lob. Remember, you need to get the clubface under the ball to have any chance of playing this shot well.

Set up with your shoulders square to the target but your feet wide open pointing to the left of it.

The ball should be slightly nearer the front foot.

Setting up like this will enable you to cut the club underneath the ball - the key to getting it high in the air.

Practice twisting your grip slightly so the clubface looks more open.

But adjust your stance to make sure the club stays square to the target at impact.

Swing the clubhead back along the line of the feet - it should feel like you are swinging well outside your normal line.

Unlike a normal chip, you must hinge your wrists quickly to get a steep angle of attack.

Do not be afraid to take a full backswing.

If you play the shot correctly it will go high but only a short distance.

Accelerate down across the line of the ball.

Though you are swinging the club shaft almost diagonally across your toes, the clubface square should still be square to the target and the ball should fly high towards the flag.

If it shoots left, you may be releasing the club too early or not setting the clubface square when you address the ball.

This shot works best from the rough as it creates enough space beneath the ball necessary for the club to get under it.

That means you need a firm follow through to get the clubhead through the grass.

Concentrate on taking the club as far forward as you did back.