Chip Shots and Pitch Shots are usually grouped together as a category of “chipping” in golf. However, there are minor fundamental differences between the two.
The most common definition of a chip shot is that it spends more time on the ground than in the air, with very little carry and more time bouncing and rolling on the green. This shot often occurs very close (within a few yards) from the green and requires a smaller swing than a pitch shot.
The chip shot utilizes a shorter swing stroke and finishes near the waist line. On the other hand, a pitch shot may incorporate a 3/4, 1/2, or 1/4 swing that ends up around the shoulder area. The pitch shot can be used from 60 yards away from the green and is akin to an underhand pitch in softball as it spends most of the time in flight.
These types of shots are mostly learned “touch & feel” much like putting, but there are several accepted shot techniques as well as different technical stances in the game and not every one works for everybody.