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Step 1
Before you ever take a penalty shot, practice at least two different methods for taking a shot outside of a game situation. Remember that a penalty shot is like a free throw in basketball, just with more pressure. You should have at least two different methods for taking a penalty shot so your moves don't become too predictable when facing opposing goalies.
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Step 2
Once you are awarded a penalty shot, decide what you're going to do before touching the puck. You don't want to over-think the penalty shot situation once you're skating towards the goalie. Use as much time as you need to in order to plan your penalty shot. You want everything to be as natural as possible in order to both intimidate and eventually fool the goalie.
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Step 3
Don't skate at full stride when approaching the goalie during a penalty shot. You may lose control of the puck completely or not have good enough control of the puck to execute the desired shot. Skate at a quick yet controlled pace while attempting a penalty shot.
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Step 4
Try to look away from where you'll be shooting the puck. In other words, don't look directly at the five hole if that's where you're planning to place the puck. You don't want to give anything away when taking your penalty shot.
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Step 5
Be prepared to change your shot direction at the last second. You may be planning to go left side but if the goalie is camping out on that side of the net, you're going to have problems. Keep everything else the same but simply change how, when and where you're going to deliver the puck.
