To hit shots that go to our target we need to have great aim and alignment. Aim and alignment are not the same thing. They are two different but related concepts in relation to having a proper set up.

Great alignment leads to great ball striking while great aim allows us to hit the ball to our intended target.

Aiming

Aiming is fairly easy, most beginners aim at the target with no problems. Being human and watching the results of their first few swings the golfer realizes that if the ball begins to curve right then it would make sense to start aiming to the left.

Proper aim allows the ball to go to the target. If on average we fade the ball 15 feet consistently with a five iron, then rather than aiming directly at the target, aim a little left of the target. Let your natural ball flight determine the aiming point. Do not change your aiming point unless a swing change produces a ball flight change.

Alignment

A basic definition of alignment is having these body elements pointing in the same direction: the knees, hips, shoulder, and eyes.

We also need to define the term parallel left. the concept of parallel left is illustrated by railway tracks. For the right handed golfer the ball and the club at address will aim down the right track. The body elements will now align themselves over the left track, thus parallel to the right track. Meaning the knees, hips, shoulders and eyes must be parallel to the target line.

We have all heard that the knees, hips, and shoulders must be aligned. Why must the eyes be properly aligned. If at address we are looking a little to the right causing us to close our shoulder and we will tend to swing the club on an inside to outside path as a result. Our eyes are closed relate to our bodies equilibrium and if not set in the right position the body will compensate to keep its balance.

Putting it all together (Assuming a straight shot)

First pick a target in the distance and find an intermediate target a few feet in front of your ball along this target line. Aim the club face so it is square to the intermediate target. Once aim has been established align your body so your knees, hips, shoulders and eyes are parallel to the target line. Knowing you are aimed and aligned properly go ahead and swing.

Good alignment is needed in order to hit good shots. Aiming becomes easy when you align yourself well.