Putting—it’s where championships get won and weekend golfers celebrate or curse under their breath. If your putting game feels like a tragic comedy, you’re not alone. The good news? You can fix it.
In this guide, we’ll cover the best-putting tips, the best-putting grip, and the best-putting technique to help you sink more putts, lower your scores, and avoid three-putt disasters.
Why Putting Matters More Than You Think
Sure, bombing a 300-yard drive off the tee feels great, but the putter is the most-used club in your bag. On average, putting makes up 40% of your total strokes in a round. That means improving your putting can shave strokes off your score faster than any other game part.
Best Putting Grip: Find What Works for You
Your grip is the foundation of your stroke. Here are the most effective putting grips used by pros and amateurs alike:
1. Conventional (Reverse Overlap) Grip
- The most common grip among golfers
- The index finger of your lead hand rests over the fingers of your trailing hand
- Great for players who want a traditional feel
2. Cross-Handed (Left-Hand Low) Grip
- The lead hand is positioned lower than the trailing hand
- It helps prevent wrist breakdown and promotes a more stable stroke
- Great for golfers struggling with consistency
3. Claw Grip
- The trailing hand grips the putter with a claw-like hold
- Reduces wrist action and enhances stability
- Ideal for golfers who struggle with the yips
4. Arm Lock Grip
- The shaft of the putter rests against the forearm
- It reduces wrist movement and provides a more consistent stroke
- Used by players like Bryson DeChambeau for added control
5. Broomstick (Long) Grip
- Requires a longer putter and a vertical stroke
- Used by golfers who struggle with nerves or shaky hands
- Popular with senior golfers or those with back pain
Best Putting Technique: Keep It Smooth & Simple
Regardless of your grip, the best-putting technique follows a few key principles:
- Maintain a Light Grip Pressure – A death grip kills your feel. Keep it light.
- Square the Putter Face – Aim is everything. A misaligned putter face leads to missed putts.
- Use a Pendulum Motion – Let your shoulders control the stroke, not your hands.
- Keep Your Eyes Over the Ball – This helps with aim and consistency.
- Follow Through Towards the Target – Don’t stop your stroke abruptly.
Best Putting Tips for Lower Scores
| Putting Tip | Why It Works |
|---|---|
| Read the Green Carefully | Look for slopes, grain direction, and speed before putting. |
| Practice Short Putts (3-5 Feet) | These putts make up the majority of scoring opportunities. |
| Use a Consistent Pre-Putt Routine | A repeatable routine builds confidence and consistency. |
| Control Your Distance, Not Just Aim | Lag putting is crucial for avoiding three-putts. |
| Keep Your Head Still Until the Ball is Gone | Moving your head early can throw off your stroke. |
FAQs About Putting
1. What is the best-putting grip for beginners?
The conventional (reverse overlap) grip is the easiest and most widely used among beginners. It provides control and stability without feeling too foreign.
2. How can I improve my putting accuracy?
- Focus on keeping your putter face square at impact.
- Practice short putts daily.
- Use a consistent setup and stroke.
3. What is the best-putting technique for fast greens?
To control speed on fast greens, use lighter grip pressure and a shorter backstroke. Avoid jabbing at the ball.
4. How do I stop three-putting so much?
Master lag putting—focus on speed control rather than making long putts. Also, practice 3-5 footers to clean up short misses.
5. Should I use a mallet or blade putter?
Mallet putters offer more forgiveness and stability, while blade putters provide a better feel and control for skilled players. Try both to see what suits your stroke.
Final Thoughts: Make Putting Your Strength
Improving your putting is the fastest way to lower your scores. Whether you tweak your grip, refine your technique, or adopt a few key putting tips, small changes can lead to significant improvements.
So, grab your putter, hit the practice green, and start rolling in those birdie putts!
Want more golf tips? Check out our best golf drills and how-to-fix your slice guides for a complete game overhaul. ⛳