The shank (also known as a socket) is one of the most feared shots in golf — and for good reason. It shows up unexpectedly, sends the ball flying sideways, and can destroy your confidence in seconds. But despite its reputation, the shank isn’t a mystery. In this article, we break down exactly what causes it, how to fix it with a simple drill, and how to keep your mindset strong when it happens. Because yes — even pros hit shanks.