While not all swings are exactly alike, the most successful hitters all exhibit relatively the same traits at each point in their swing. As a hitting instructor or just a dad teaching his son or daughter to hit, here are a few key points to look for when instructing.

1. Set-up: Make sure feet, hands, body, head and arms are all properly aligned and balance is good.
2. Stride/Load: Make sure stride is back toward the pitcher, hands stay up when front foot lands, front side remains closed and balance is good
3. Swing: Make sure front foot is down before they swing. Ensure hands make straight path to the projected ball path.
4. Follow through: Make sure they get a good and full balanced follow through.