Baseball Infield Drills PDF Master the Field

June 4, 2025May 18, 2025 by Jerry

Baseball infield drills PDF: Unlocking the secrets to a stellar infield performance. This comprehensive guide provides a roadmap to mastering infield techniques, from fundamental footwork to advanced strategies. Imagine the thrill of flawless plays, the confidence of knowing you’re prepared, and the satisfying roar of the crowd. This document breaks down the key aspects of infield play, offering a structured approach for all skill levels.

From basic drills to advanced strategies, you’ll discover the crucial role of proper positioning, effective throwing, and quick reflexes in achieving optimal infield performance.

This document meticulously details a variety of infield drills, categorized by skill type and progression. Each drill is presented with clear explanations, helpful diagrams, and practical tips. Whether you’re a seasoned player or just starting out, this resource provides the tools to enhance your infield skills and elevate your game. The detailed progression allows you to advance through various drills, gradually building your proficiency and mastering different techniques.

Moreover, the document considers essential safety precautions, ensuring your training is not only effective but also safe.

Table of Contents

Introduction to Infield Drills: Baseball Infield Drills Pdf

Mastering the infield is paramount in baseball. These drills aren’t just about practice; they’re about developing the reflexes, precision, and teamwork essential for a strong defensive unit. A well-rehearsed infield can turn a close game into a resounding victory. Quick reactions and effective communication are crucial for a successful infield.Infield drills are the bedrock of a robust baseball defense.

They hone fundamental skills like throwing accuracy, quick transitions, and efficient positioning. These exercises build the confidence needed to handle pressure-packed situations and ultimately contribute to a team’s overall success.

Infield Positions and Their Skill Sets

Infield positions demand distinct skill sets. The shortstop, for example, is often the quarterback of the infield, needing a blend of speed, range, and throwing power. The second baseman requires quick reactions and exceptional glove work. The third baseman, a position often demanding long throws, must also have strength and agility. Each position, like a specialized cog in a machine, contributes uniquely to the team’s defensive prowess.

Benefits of Regular Infield Drills

Regular infield drills offer a multitude of advantages. They enhance fielding techniques, improving reaction time, and fine-tuning the mechanics of catching and throwing. This precision translates directly to reducing errors and increasing the likelihood of turning the ball over. Furthermore, drills foster communication and teamwork, crucial for cohesive infield play. These benefits ultimately contribute to a more efficient and resilient defense.

Stages of Player Development Requiring Infield Drills

Infield drills are essential throughout a player’s development. From youth leagues to professional ball, these drills provide a platform for skill refinement and tactical adaptation. Developing young players requires fundamental drills to build a solid foundation. In advanced stages, drills can become more complex, focusing on game-like situations and strategic positioning.

Key Infield Positions and Essential Drills

Understanding the specific drills tailored to each position is key to maximizing individual and team performance. Here’s a table outlining key infield positions and their associated drills:

Position	Essential Drills	Focus Areas	Advanced Drills
Shortstop	Ground ball fielding, throwing to first, double plays, footwork drills	Range, quick transitions, throwing accuracy	Simulated game scenarios, reaction drills, complex plays
Second Baseman	Ground ball fielding, throwing to first, relays, positioning drills	Quick reactions, glove work, turning double plays	Advanced relay plays, quick-thinking scenarios
Third Baseman	Ground ball fielding, throwing to first, long throws, positioning drills	Strength, agility, long throws, turning double plays	Long throw accuracy drills, positioning scenarios
First Baseman	Catching throws, tagging runners, positioning drills	Tagging runners, fielding throws, accurate catching	Tagging runners with speed, advanced positioning, catching difficult throws

Types of Infield Drills

Unlocking the secrets of a stellar infield performance hinges on mastering a variety of drills. These drills aren’t just about physical repetition; they’re about honing the precise mechanics, reflexes, and teamwork essential for success. Each drill targets specific skills, from lightning-fast reactions to strategic positioning. Let’s delve into the diverse world of infield drills.

Throwing Drills

Throwing drills are fundamental to developing accuracy, power, and consistency in the infield. These drills focus on developing proper throwing mechanics, from the grip to the follow-through. The goal is to build the strength and control needed for precise throws from various angles and distances. Effective throwing drills build confidence in executing throws under pressure. Common examples include: throwing to a target, throwing to a partner, and throwing to a specific location, each with specific instructions and adjustments for different skill levels.

Fielding Drills

These drills focus on developing quick reflexes, accurate fielding, and sound decision-making. Fielders need to react to the ball’s trajectory, anticipate its position, and execute the proper fielding technique to ensure the ball is caught cleanly and safely. Common drills include: catching ground balls, fielding fly balls, and fielding different types of pitches.

Footwork Drills

Developing efficient footwork is crucial for covering ground quickly and efficiently. Drills focusing on footwork involve practicing quick movements, lateral shuffles, and cutting across the field. These drills help players develop agility and reaction time. Effective footwork drills create a seamless transition between positions, ensuring players are in the right spot at the right time.

Positioning Drills

These drills focus on the tactical aspect of infield play, emphasizing the importance of proper positioning for every play. They teach players to anticipate the ball’s trajectory and to cover the appropriate area on the field to ensure that the play is executed effectively. Players need to understand how their position affects the overall strategy of the defense.

Table: Infield Drills and Objectives

Drill Type	Specific Skills Targeted	Techniques Involved	Benefits and Purposes
Throwing	Accuracy, power, consistency, proper mechanics	Grip, throwing motion, follow-through	Building throwing strength, control, and confidence
Fielding	Reflexes, accuracy, decision-making	Catching ground balls, fly balls, various pitches	Improving fielding technique, ensuring clean catches
Footwork	Agility, reaction time, quick movements	Lateral shuffles, cutting, covering ground	Developing efficient transitions and quick reactions
Positioning	Anticipation, strategic positioning, tactical awareness	Understanding field coverage, anticipating plays	Enhancing the team’s defensive strategy and efficiency

Drill Progressions and Variations

Unlocking infield mastery isn’t about just throwing balls around. It’s about a systematic progression, adapting to different skill levels, and tailoring drills to individual needs. This journey involves moving from foundational skills to more intricate techniques, ensuring every player can build their infield game, one step at a time.

Position-Specific Drill Progressions

A tailored approach is key for each infield position. Each position has unique demands, requiring specific drills to cultivate the needed skills. A well-structured progression, moving from basic to advanced, is critical for consistent improvement.

Shortstop: Begin with ground balls, progressing to simulated plays like a bunt, then moving to more challenging plays involving runners. Variations include drills emphasizing quick throws, footwork drills, and advanced plays like forcing outs at first base. This builds a solid foundation for advanced plays. For example, incorporating a runner in the drills makes the shortstop anticipate and react to more realistic game situations.
Second Base: Start with basic relay drills, gradually adding in different types of throws to second base. Include drills focusing on reading the ball and the runner. Progress to advanced drills involving sliding runners and simulated stolen base attempts. The second baseman should also practice cutting angles to make plays at second base more efficient.
First Base: Focus on proper fielding techniques with ground balls, progressing to throws to first base and then to the relay system. Add variations like fielding ground balls while turning to throw, and then simulated plays with runners on base. Include drills focusing on blocking throws and catching accurately. First basemen need to develop excellent hand-eye coordination and timing to react effectively.
Third Base: Begin with fielding ground balls, progressing to fielding and throwing to the appropriate base. Include drills focusing on proper blocking techniques and throwing to second base. Add variations including tagging runners and more challenging plays, including simulated plays with runners. This helps develop third basemen’s ability to make plays and to anticipate runner actions.

Skill Level Modifications

Adapting drills to various skill levels is crucial. This ensures all players, regardless of experience, can benefit and progress. Beginners require simpler drills with fewer variables, while advanced players benefit from more complex scenarios.

Beginner: Focus on fundamental techniques like proper fielding stance and glove placement. Drills should be short, with clear instructions and immediate feedback. Simpler scenarios, such as single ground balls, will build confidence and improve the basics.
Intermediate: Introduce drills that involve multiple steps, such as relay throws or fielding while running. Introduce the concept of anticipating the ball and runner actions. More advanced variations, such as simulating plays with runners, can improve decision-making and quick reactions.
Advanced: Implement drills that involve more complex plays like forcing outs, sliding runners, or simulated stolen base attempts. Drills should focus on strategic thinking and reaction time. These scenarios increase difficulty and challenge players to think strategically.

Drill Variations, Baseball infield drills pdf

To cater to individual needs, drills should be adaptable and varied. Players may need specific attention to weaknesses or need to reinforce particular skills. This allows players to develop at their own pace.

Using different types of balls: Soft balls or weighted balls can be used for specific skill building, while harder balls emphasize reaction time. The variation of ball types adds a dynamic element to the drills.
Introducing runners: Incorporating runners into drills makes the plays more realistic and improves anticipation. Adding runners is crucial to develop quick reflexes and strategic thinking.
Utilizing different field placements: Changing the placement of the bases or the infielders can provide different challenges and improve spatial awareness. Changing field placements adds complexity to the plays and improves players’ ability to adjust to different situations.

Drill Progression Comparison Table

Position	Beginner	Intermediate	Advanced
Shortstop	Ground ball fielding, basic throws	Relay throws, bunt plays	Simulated plays with runners, forcing outs
Second Base	Basic fielding, throws to second	Relay throws, reading runners	Advanced plays, cutting angles
First Base	Fielding ground balls, throws to first	Turning to throw, plays with runners	Blocking throws, plays with runners
Third Base	Ground ball fielding, throws to third	Throws to second, blocking throws	Plays with runners, tagging runners

Equipment and Setup for Infield Drills

Getting your infielders ready for drills is crucial. The right gear and a well-organized setup can make a world of difference in the effectiveness of practice. A well-planned setup ensures that players are focused on the drill, not on finding equipment or adjusting the field. This section will detail the essential equipment and proper setup for various infield drills, setting you up for success.Proper setup not only enhances practice efficiency but also minimizes potential injuries.

Clear guidelines for equipment and positioning maximize the learning experience and ensure drills are productive. By understanding the required equipment and the best ways to arrange it, coaches can create a supportive and effective practice environment.

Essential Equipment for Infield Drills

The necessary equipment for infield drills varies based on the specific drill. However, a few key items are fundamental to all drills. These are the building blocks of a successful practice. Having these items ready and readily available allows the focus to remain on technique and strategy.

Baseballs: The most fundamental piece of equipment. Multiple balls are essential for simultaneous repetitions, especially for drills that involve multiple players.
Gloves: Every infielder needs a properly fitted glove. The appropriate size and type of glove allows for secure handling and proper fielding technique.
Bases: Standard bases are needed for most infield drills. Ensure the bases are in good condition and clearly marked. Proper base placement is critical for effective infield drills.
Field Markers (optional): Using field markers can help establish specific boundaries or areas for certain drills. They provide a clear visual aid for players, enhancing the clarity and efficiency of the drills.
Coach’s tools: Tools such as stopwatches, scoreboards, and measuring tape can enhance the drills’ structure and provide specific metrics.

Drill-Specific Equipment

Certain drills require additional equipment to achieve the desired outcome. This section will illustrate the additional tools necessary to execute specific infield drills effectively.

For throwing drills: Throwing targets, such as buckets or soft-sided mats, are beneficial for drills focusing on accuracy and speed.
For fielding drills: Extra balls, potentially with different colors or markings, help in developing visual discrimination in fielding.
For agility drills: Cones or markers are needed to define the paths and distances for running drills.

Proper Setup for Infield Drills

The setup of the field significantly impacts the effectiveness of infield drills. Proper arrangement ensures players are correctly positioned and the drill flows seamlessly. This is a critical aspect of creating a positive and effective learning experience.

Base Placement: Ensure bases are placed correctly, aligned with the designated areas for each drill. This is critical for accuracy and consistency in executing drills.
Player Positioning: Place players in the appropriate positions according to the drill’s instructions. Proper positioning is critical to avoid confusion and maximizes the benefit of the drills.
Field Maintenance: Ensure the field is clear of obstructions and hazards. Clear space is essential for safe and efficient practice.

Equipment Table for Infield Drills

The following table Artikels the equipment needed for various drills.

Drill Type	Equipment	Purpose	Quantity
Throwing Accuracy	Baseballs, Throwing targets	Developing accuracy and distance in throws	Multiple balls, sufficient targets
Fielding Agility	Baseballs, Markers	Improving quick reflexes and agility	Multiple balls, sufficient markers
Relay Throws	Baseballs, Bases	Developing speed and coordination in relay plays	Multiple balls, Bases
Situational Plays	Baseballs, Bases, Gloves	Practicing situational plays, like force outs	Multiple balls, Gloves

Infield Drills for Specific Skills

Unlocking the infield’s potential hinges on mastering specific skills. These drills are the key to transforming raw talent into polished performances, ensuring each player can contribute their best to the team’s success. From throwing with pinpoint accuracy to reading the ball’s flight with lightning reflexes, we’ll delve into drills that hone each skill, making your infielders dynamic and decisive.

Throwing Accuracy

Developing consistent throwing accuracy is fundamental to an effective infield. Players need to master the mechanics of the throw, from the grip to the follow-through, to achieve maximum distance and control. Consistent accuracy translates to quicker plays and fewer errors.

The “Target Throw” Drill: Players stand at varying distances from a target (a small cone or a designated spot). They practice throwing to the target, focusing on accuracy and consistency. Progressive distances enhance the challenge, reinforcing the relationship between throwing force and trajectory. This drill builds confidence and precision.
The “Relay Race” Drill: Teams divide into two groups, each forming a relay line. One player throws to another, who catches and throws to the next. The focus is on maintaining a steady pace and accurate throws, which improves communication and anticipation skills. This fosters teamwork and efficient play.
The “Defensive Position Throw” Drill: Players practice throwing from various defensive positions (first base, second base, shortstop). They focus on the specific angle and distance involved in each position. This drill simulates game situations, enhancing decision-making and efficiency.

Quick Reflexes

Quick reflexes are paramount in infield play. Players need to react quickly to the ball’s movement, positioning themselves to make plays efficiently.

The “Sudden Stop” Drill: Players position themselves in a line. A coach throws a ball randomly to each player, who must stop and catch the ball immediately. This drill reinforces quick reactions and improves catching skills.
The “Tag-and-Throw” Drill: A player fields a thrown ball and must tag a base or runner while throwing to another position, improving reaction time and hand-eye coordination. This drill mirrors live game scenarios.
The “Back-and-Forth” Drill: A coach throws the ball back and forth to a player, who must catch and throw back, improving reaction time and agility. Progressive speeds increase the difficulty, enhancing the skill.

Positioning

Effective positioning allows infielders to anticipate plays and get into the best position to make the play.

The “Play Simulation” Drill: Players practice fielding ground balls and fly balls from different angles, focusing on getting into the correct position to make the play. This drill mirrors game situations, enhancing the understanding of positioning and play recognition.
The “Fielding Position Drill”: Players practice positioning themselves in different infield positions. The coach throws the ball, and the player positions themselves for the play. This drill reinforces correct positioning and understanding of coverage areas.
The “Positioning and Tagging” Drill: Players practice running to the ball and making the tag. The coach throws a ball at varying speeds and angles. The drill enhances the player’s anticipation and positioning skills.

Incorporating Drills into Training

To maximize the benefits of these drills, they should be strategically incorporated into the training schedule. Begin with shorter durations and progressively increase the time and complexity as players improve. Ensure drills are part of the warm-up or cool-down routines, and use them as part of a full-field practice session. This approach will help build a well-rounded infielder, capable of performing well in any game situation.

Incorporating Drills into Practice Sessions

Getting your infielders in the groove is crucial for team success. Effective practice sessions aren’t just about throwing balls; they’re about building skills, fostering teamwork, and instilling confidence. Properly integrating drills into your practice routine is key to achieving these goals.A well-structured practice session should be more than just a series of drills. It should be a dynamic learning experience, gradually building from basic skills to more complex plays.

Each drill should have a clear purpose, leading to a more cohesive and proficient infield unit. This approach maximizes practice time and minimizes wasted effort.

Best Practices for Incorporating Drills

Integrating drills effectively requires a mindful approach. First, ensure each drill directly addresses a specific skill or concept. Second, progressively increase the difficulty of drills over time. Third, provide ample opportunities for repetition and feedback to solidify learned skills. Finally, make sure that drills are tailored to the specific needs and skill levels of your players.

A balanced approach will lead to more positive results and better player performance.

Structuring a Practice Session

A well-structured practice session includes a warm-up, skill development drills, game-like situations, and a cool-down. The warm-up should prepare players physically and mentally for the drills. The skill development drills should focus on specific infield techniques, progressing from simple to complex. Game-like situations allow players to apply their skills in a pressure-filled environment. A cool-down helps prevent injuries and allows for reflection on the practice session.

Sample Practice Schedule

A sample practice schedule is provided below to illustrate how infield drills can be incorporated. Remember, these are just suggestions, and you should adjust the schedule to fit your team’s specific needs and the weather conditions.

Warm-up (10 minutes): Light cardio, agility drills, and dynamic stretching to prepare the players for the session. This is crucial for injury prevention and maximizing performance.
Infield Drills (30 minutes): Focus on specific skills like throwing accuracy, fielding technique, and positioning. Vary the drills to keep players engaged and challenged.
Game-Like Situations (20 minutes): Introduce game-related scenarios, such as simulated plays, to help players apply their skills under pressure. This is where the focus shifts from individual skill to team collaboration.
Cool-down (5 minutes): Static stretching to promote flexibility and recovery. This final stage is vital for injury prevention and player well-being.

Tips for Engaging and Productive Practice Sessions

Effective practice sessions go beyond just drills. Making the practice fun and engaging is critical. Here are some tips:

Positive Reinforcement: Praise effort and improvement, not just perfect execution. This fosters a positive learning environment and encourages players to push themselves.
Variety: Mix up the drills to prevent boredom. Change the drills frequently, keep the focus sharp, and prevent players from becoming complacent.
Individualized Attention: Provide individualized feedback to players, addressing specific weaknesses and strengths. This helps each player grow at their own pace and improve.
Clear Communication: Communicate the purpose and objectives of each drill clearly to the players. This ensures everyone is on the same page and understands the goals of the practice session.

Sample Practice Session

Time	Activity	Drill Focus	Notes
10:00-10:10	Warm-up	Cardio, agility, dynamic stretching	Prepare bodies for drills
10:10-10:40	Infield Drills	Throwing accuracy, fielding technique, positioning	Focus on fundamental skills
10:40-11:00	Game-Like Situations	Simulated plays, positioning in pressure	Apply skills in game-like conditions
11:00-11:05	Cool-down	Static stretching	Injury prevention, recovery

Safety Considerations in Infield Drills

Keeping everyone safe and sound during infield drills is paramount. A little extra care goes a long way in preventing injuries and ensuring everyone has a positive and productive practice. Proper technique, along with mindful safety measures, fosters a safe environment where players can develop their skills without the fear of getting hurt.Infield drills, while crucial for developing skills, can be risky if not approached with the appropriate safety precautions.

A proactive and mindful approach to safety is essential to maintaining a healthy and positive practice environment for all participants. Proper safety procedures help to avoid common pitfalls and keep the game fun and enjoyable for everyone involved.

Safety Precautions During Infield Drills

Careful attention to safety is vital for preventing injuries during infield drills. This includes a variety of measures to ensure players are protected. Proper warm-up routines, equipment maintenance, and controlled drills are all critical elements of a safe practice.

Proper Warm-up: A comprehensive warm-up routine is crucial before any drill. It prepares the muscles and joints for the physical demands of the drills, reducing the risk of strains and sprains. This includes dynamic stretches and light cardio to increase blood flow and body temperature.
Equipment Inspection: Before each drill, meticulously inspect all equipment, including gloves, helmets, and protective gear. Ensure equipment is in good working order and free of damage that could lead to injury. Damaged equipment should be immediately removed from the drill.
Controlled Drill Environments: Carefully plan and control drill environments to minimize risks. Ensure appropriate spacing between players, clear playing areas, and adequate supervision. Clear communication about the drill parameters will help ensure everyone is aware of boundaries and limitations.
Proper Technique and Form: Emphasize proper technique and form throughout the drills. Correct form significantly reduces the risk of injury. Coaches should provide clear instructions and demonstrations of the correct techniques and consistently reinforce them.
Hydration and Nutrition: Encourage players to stay hydrated throughout the drills. Providing ample water breaks and snacks can help prevent heat exhaustion or dehydration. Proper nutrition is essential for optimal performance and injury prevention.

Implementing Safety Measures

Creating a safe infield drill environment involves several key elements. By implementing these, coaches can minimize risks and maximize learning.

Designated Safety Officer: Assign a designated coach or assistant to oversee safety procedures during drills. This individual is responsible for monitoring player safety, ensuring equipment is in good condition, and enforcing safety rules.
Clear Communication: Ensure clear and concise communication of drill instructions and safety guidelines. Clear communication is critical for avoiding confusion and ensuring all participants understand the drill procedures.
Supervision and Monitoring: Constant supervision and monitoring are essential to prevent potential injuries. Coaches should actively observe players and intervene promptly if needed. The safety of each participant should be prioritized above all else.

Safety Tips and Potential Risks

This table Artikels safety tips for various infield drills and the associated potential risks.

Drill	Safety Tips	Potential Risks	Mitigation Strategies
Throwing Drill	Use soft, cushioned surfaces. Ensure proper throwing form. Monitor throwing distance.	Shoulder injuries, elbow injuries, wrist injuries, sprains	Use proper warm-up routines, correct form, and supervise the players to prevent overexertion.
Fielding Drill	Use soft balls. Ensure proper fielding stance. Monitor player spacing.	Knee injuries, ankle injuries, back injuries	Use protective gear and emphasize correct fielding techniques. Provide breaks and encourage proper hydration.
Base Running Drill	Ensure clear pathways. Control the speed of drills. Provide proper signals.	Collisions, ankle injuries, muscle strains	Proper spacing and clear instructions to runners and fielders. Implement clear boundaries to prevent collisions.
Tagging Drill	Monitor player contact. Use soft tags. Emphasize fair play.	Shoulder injuries, hand injuries, sprains	Use soft tags and appropriate equipment. Ensure players are aware of fair play rules.

Advanced Infield Drill Strategies

Unleashing the potential of your infield requires more than just the fundamentals. Advanced drills focus on developing nuanced skills, reaction times, and strategic decision-making, ultimately translating to superior fielding efficiency. These drills are designed to push players beyond their comfort zones, fostering a deeper understanding of the game and their individual roles.These advanced techniques are not merely about speed and agility; they are about mastering the art of anticipating plays, reacting decisively, and communicating effectively within the infield.

By integrating these drills into a structured training regimen, teams can cultivate a more cohesive and high-performing unit.

Developing Anticipation and Reaction Time

Advanced infield drills emphasize the importance of anticipation and reaction time. These skills are crucial for making quick, accurate decisions in game situations. Players must develop the ability to read the ball’s trajectory, the batter’s swing, and the runner’s intentions to predict the play’s development.

Reading the Ball: Drills focusing on predicting the trajectory of the ball, including incorporating variations in the pitcher’s delivery and the batter’s stance, can be utilized to develop a keen sense of anticipation.
Reading the Batter: Drills simulating various batter types and their tendencies, combined with analyzing swing paths and timing, are effective for developing the ability to predict where the ball will be hit.
Reading the Runner: Drills that incorporate runners at different bases, emphasizing the need to read their positioning and intentions to anticipate their possible routes and potential steals, contribute to a more strategic approach to fielding.

Implementing Communication and Teamwork

Effective infield play hinges on seamless communication and teamwork. Advanced drills aim to strengthen these aspects by fostering a sense of shared responsibility and promoting clear communication between players.

Relay Drills with Communication: Implementing specific communication protocols during relay drills, such as using verbal cues and hand signals, reinforces the importance of clear and concise information exchange, and aids in the development of consistent, predictable actions in the field.
Infield Positioning Drills with Specific Instructions: These drills focus on developing the awareness of player positions and responsibilities, utilizing pre-determined signals and pre-arranged routes to cover various play scenarios.
Simulated Game Situations: These drills simulate actual game scenarios, focusing on players’ ability to react to specific plays, maintain their composure under pressure, and make sound decisions with their teammates.

Adapting to Complex Play Scenarios

Advanced infield drills delve into complex play scenarios that demand quick thinking and decisive action. These scenarios often involve multiple runners, tricky plays at the base, and challenging ground balls.

Advanced Ground Ball Drills: Drills that focus on difficult ground balls, incorporating factors like a runner on base, or simulating tough plays in the infield, are valuable in developing players’ skills to execute the play under pressure.
Plays with Runners on Base: Drills that involve runners on base, forcing infielders to make quick decisions regarding fielding the ball and covering the base, can improve players’ ability to anticipate the situation and react accordingly.
Simulated Infield Plays with a Catcher: Implementing drills that involve the catcher and infielders, to simulate plays requiring communication between different positions, can greatly improve teamwork and decision-making in various situations.