MY GOLF BLUEPRINT

Putting inconsistency: checks and practice

A blade putter lined up behind a golf ball on a putting green. — Photo: Peter Jacob Drew / Pexels

Putting misses can arise from read, aim, start line, contact or speed. Separate these tasks to avoid changing a good stroke for a reading problem.

Possible causes

Inconsistent face aim
Variable strike or pace
Reads that do not match chosen speed

Simple checks

Use a straight start-line gate.
Test distance control without a hole.
Then combine line and pace on a breaking putt.

A practice drill

Record five gate putts and five distance-zone putts. Work on the weaker task, then return to one-ball practice with a full routine.

Avoid this trap

Do not judge progress solely from short-term makes. A lucky lip-in can hide a poor start line, while a well-struck putt may miss a bad read.

The checks narrow the possibilities; they do not confirm a diagnosis. Keep a record of several shots and ask a qualified coach to connect the pattern to your swing.

Related lesson

Putting basics: start line and pace

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