Let the bunker sand dictate your shot.  Every course's bunkers are different, but sand conditions can also be different from day to day this depends on the weather.  It is important to take a factors into the consideration whenever you find yourself in a fairway or green side bunker.  Calculating the distance of your shot, you should also factor the texture of the sand to dictate your strategy for a optimal result.  Dig your feet into the sand for stability, pay very close attention to its texture and depth.

Wet or Firm Sand
 Use a shallower angle of attack for this lie, this will take less sand.  Have the club face open and your stance should be slightly open, pick a spot about an inch behind the golf ball.

Fluffy or Deep Sand
You want to have a full explosion shot here.  Clubface and stance should have a wider position.   Take a steep and full swing to allow your club to move plenty of sand.  This helps the golf ball get out of the bunker.

Shallow or Loose Sand
Shallower bunkers can be very deceiving, loose sand looks fluffy, your club will often bounce off the surface, this will result in a long or bladed shot.  Play this with a square clubface and a slightly open stance, as if you were playing a normal pitch shot.  Take about a three-quarter swing and hit half a inch behind the golf ball.  The golf ball should fly out like a pitch shot that you have hit fat, remember stay firm through impact.

Practice these tips before your next round, before you hit into that bunker.