CFitzgerald1292:I do not chip, pitch, flop, or punch on any short shot. I use a full swing with a strike percentage based on experience and adjustments for lie, elevation, and wind. I also use backspin on almost all shots. I have found this will land the ball closer to the hole and eliminate most of the intervening terrain. this works if you have good wedges and most important balls that spin.
OK. If that works for you, that's fine.
Nevertheless, how do you know it lands closer to the hole or is a better choice if you don't chip, pitch, or flop?
Yes, a full swing shot can be a good choice. But it's not always the best choice. Similarly, the pitch isn't always the best choice... the flop shot isn't always the best choice... and the chip isn't always the best choice.
The point is that the best players know how and when to use all the shots. But I suppose if all one has is a hammer, everything becomes a nail.
Oh, and +1 to Jim. :-)