You can’t always putt along the flattest part of the green. Most times, you need to hit the ball along the green’s slope in order to curve the ball towards the hole. The route your ball takes from the putter to the green is called a line. Always take time to read the green’s slope before determining your line.
To visualize the read, imagine pouring water into the hole. Ask yourself which way the water would spill out if it were to overflow. You expect the water to spill out towards the lower end of a slope. [2] X Expert Source Michael MetzGolf Instructor Expert Interview. 24 March 2022. The last stretch of green before the hole has the most impact on your ball. The ball rolls at such a slow speed that the green’s slope has more of a pull on it.
If you are uncertain of a particular spot you need to hit through, crouch! Get a close look at the grass. Note any uneven spots that can drag your ball away from the hole.
You should have a pretty good idea of how the ball will move on the green. Keep looking at the green from different angles until you feel confident about your read. When you’re standing between the ball and cup, take a few practice swings until you feel comfortable with the read.
For example, if your right foot is higher than the bottom of the ball, the ball will roll towards your left foot. You can adjust your stroke by hitting the ball towards your right foot.
To visualize the ball’s path, imagine what it will do if you hit it straight at the hole. From analyzing the green from so many angles, you should be able to figure out where the ball would go.
You may feel rushed when other golfers are waiting for you. Remember to tune this out and let the golf course be a peaceful place to enjoy hitting a small, dimpled ball. Once you get used to reading greens, you can often do it within 30 to 60 seconds, but don’t despair if you need extra time.
In some circumstances, such as during a competitive round, you may not get a chance to ask anyone unless you have a caddie. Take extra time to get comfortable with your read. Remember that an opinion is nothing more than an opinion. If you still think you’re right, stick with your initial read.
Stick to your instincts. Your first read is usually the best, unless you have good evidence that your read was wrong.
Imagining a clear line can take some practice. At first, you may not be able to hit the ball exactly along your line. Master your putting technique as you get more confident reading greens.
For instance, if the green slopes down to the right, aim to the left to let the ball roll downhill towards the cup.
With slower greens, you may wish to get a second read to make sure your approach is right.
To know if a green is fast, watch how others hit their balls. You will also know by putting on greens at other holes on the course. On fast greens, the ball faces less resistance than usual and rolls faster.
Aim your club towards your target, which is where you want to hit the ball. The target is the part of the green that will cause the ball to roll down into the hole.
