How to Golf Putt

by Darin McGilvra

Overview

Golf is a fun game for young and old alike to play, but it can be frustrating at times when things don't go your way. One of the most difficult things to do is putt the ball on the green. To putt the ball, you need a putter and you will be swinging the club differently than any other club because, unlike all other golf shots, the goal is to roll the ball along the smooth surface of the green instead of trying to hit the ball into the air.

Step 1

Line up your putt. It is important to look at the surface of the green carefully to see if it slants one way or another. This will affect the direction the golf ball will roll.
Step 2

Remove any leaves, sticks or other debris between the ball and the cup. The green is the only part of the golf course where you are allowed to remove loose objects that are in your way.
Step 3

Remove the flag, otherwise known as the pin. If you are alone, you will need to set it off to the side off of the green. Otherwise, have your playing partner hold it while standing out of your way. You can do the same for her when it is her turn. This is done so the ball won't hit the pole and bounce out of the cup.
Step 4

Stand a little ways away from the ball and practice your swing. You will stand and hold the club the same as any other golf club. However, the swing is completely different. You want to keep your arms straight. You should swing the club like a pendulum, with your shoulders being the pivot point.
Step 5

Step up to the ball and hit it like you practiced with one smooth motion.
Step 6

Once everyone in the party has finished putting and removed their balls from the cup, put the flag back in the cup.

4
Putter Golf ball
Putter
Golf ball
On long putts, the goal it to just get the ball close to the hole, so make sure you don't putt the ball too hard or it may roll farther away than where you started. Practice putting on a practice green to help you learn how to gauge distance and how the slopes affect the ball. Practice making putts inside six feet first to gain confidence. Play a game with friends to practice long putts. See who can get closest to the cup from 50 feet.
On long putts, the goal it to just get the ball close to the hole, so make sure you don't putt the ball too hard or it may roll farther away than where you started.
Practice putting on a practice green to help you learn how to gauge distance and how the slopes affect the ball.
Practice making putts inside six feet first to gain confidence.
Play a game with friends to practice long putts. See who can get closest to the cup from 50 feet.

Overview