Do you want to become a great putter? Good news: Great putters are not born, they are made.
Here are 5 essential elements every golfer must master to become a great putter. Work through these in order. Watch the main video below that goes over these elements. Then, watch the other videos for more details.
- Learn to stroke the putter without any leg action.
- Pick your line, intermediate target, and trust it.
- Develop a consistent, impeccable set up routine.
- Develop great tempo.
- Focus on the back of the ball, lock your gaze, and stroke it.
Video for Element 1: No leg action
One of the most overlooked fundamentals in putting is keeping your legs and hips completely still during the stroke. Any unnecessary movement in your lower body can throw off your balance, open or close your putter face, and cause inconsistent contact with the ball. The putting stroke is all about precision, and even a small sway or shift in your hips can lead to missed putts. By anchoring your lower body and allowing only your shoulders and arms to move, you create a more repeatable, controlled stroke that leads to better accuracy and distance control on the greens.
Video for Element 2: Pick your line
Start behind the ball and look toward the hole to get an overall read on the set up. Instead of just aiming at the hole, pick a point like a blade of grass, discoloration, or a spot on the green about a foot in front of the golf ball where you want the ball to start. This spot should be where the putt begins breaking, not necessarily where it ends. Once you pick your intended line, visualize the ball rolling along that path. Take a smooth stroke and trust your read—doubt leads to hesitation, which impacts everything.
Video for Element 3: Set up routine
Set up in your putting stance has to be consistent time after time. You have to develop a routine to get yourself in that position. I like to pick the line I am going to putt down, set the putter face square to my intended line, and then position my feet and body based on 90 degrees to my putter. It is a deliberate system that needs to be repeated over and over.
1) Pick the line you’re going to put down.
2) Set the putter face square to your intended line.
3) Position your feet and body based on 90 degrees to your putter.
Video for Element 4: Tempo
Ever feel like your putter has a mind of its own? One moment it’s smooth and steady, the next it’s jerky and rushed. That inconsistency usually comes down to one key element—tempo. Tempo is the rhythm of your putting stroke, and it’s what keeps everything in sync. A steady, even tempo helps you control distance, stay online, and build confidence with every putt. Dial in that smooth, repeatable tempo so your putting stroke feels as natural as a metronome.
Video for Element 5: Focus on the back of the ball
Scientifically, looking at the back of the golf ball (instead of the top or front) helps with ball striking, consistency, and focus. Use a Sharpie marker to add a dot to the middle of the back of your golf ball, or to your Delta Putt puck to help you keep your eye focus where the clubface makes contact.
Keeping your eyes locked on the back of the ball helps prevent head movement, which can cause inconsistent contact. Keeping focus on the back of the ball helps maintain posture and a proper spine angle. Focusing on a mark on the back of the ball creates a targeted focus, improving concentration and reducing distractions.
By focusing on the Sharpie dot on the back of the ball or Delta Putt puck, your eyes help guide the club to the correct impact point, reducing mishits. It sets you up for better contact, control, and consistency. Try it next time and see the difference!
Need a great tool to use to practice your putting? Check out the Delta Putt Max. It give instant feedback on your putting skills. Click here to shop.