The 3 Keys to Putting Success

Putting is often called the “game within the game.” It’s where great rounds are saved — or lost. But here’s the truth: putting doesn’t have to be complicated. Whether you're a junior golfer chasing a college scholarship or a weekend warrior looking to break 80, there are only three things you need to do to make a putt:

1. Start the Ball Online

It doesn’t matter how good your read or speed is — if the ball doesn’t start on the line you intended, you’re in trouble. Being able to consistently launch the ball on your intended line is foundational to good putting.

Drill to try:
The Gate Drill – Set two tees just wider than your putter head and practice stroking putts without hitting the tees. Then, set up another "gate" a few feet in front of the ball to verify you're starting it on line. You can also use a chalk line on the green to ensure proper aim and start line.  

2. Read the Green Correctly

Reading greens is both an art and a skill — and it’s where many players lose strokes. You need to understand the slope, grain (when applicable), and how the speed of the green affects the break.

Drill to try:
Around-the-Clock Read Drill – Place tees in a circle around the hole at various angles and distances. Practice reading and hitting putts from each spot. You’ll train your eyes and instincts to recognize break from all sides.  A handy tool to use is a flat ball marker.  You can place it at the apex point and try to hit it.  If you do and you miss, then the miss was caused by faulty speed or bad read.  You can deduce and learn from there.  

3. Hit the Putt the Right Speed

Speed control is what ties everything together. A perfect read and line won’t matter if you blast it past the hole — or leave it short. The right pace gives the ball a chance to drop and minimizes your next putt.

Drill to try:
Ladder Drill – Putt balls to stop at specific distances (3ft, 6ft, 9ft, etc.). You’ll improve your feel and develop better distance control — a must for reducing 3-putts.

The Bottom Line:

Start it on line. Read it right. Hit it with the right speed.
That’s all it takes to make more putts.

Each of these skills can be practiced and improved with simple, effective drills. If you're struggling with one area, that’s where your focus should be. Want help identifying what’s holding your putting back? Let’s work together — book a putting session today.