Build a consistent putting routine with these 5 simple keys

Having a putting routine is critical to your success on the green. Developing your own routine will help you build confidence and consistency in your game. By following these five keys, you can increase your chances of rolling your first putt close to the hole — and hopefully sinking a few more putts along the way.

Feel free to play around with these keys to find what fits your game. Just remember, consistency is key. Once you find a routine that works, stick with it.

1. Assess the putt

The first step to any good putting routine is evaluating the length, slope and elevation changes. Having this information will help you understand the line, speed and break of the putt. And you don’t have to wait to get up to the green to start assessing your putt. Pay attention to tilt of the green as you walk toward it, this can be a helpful angle from which to read the green. Look for extreme high and low points to get a lay of the land.

Once you’re on the green, gauge the general length of the putt. Consider whether the putt is uphill or downhill, as this will impact your speed. Uphill putts typically require a longer backstroke, while downhill putts will need a shorter stroke.

For longer putts, distance control is key. On mid-to-short length putts, the ability to read the break is more critical. Focus on the side slope, which can be assessed with your feet, a technique called Aimpoint, or with the help of green-reading tools like GolfLogix, which provides players with tour-level data on the greens.

2. Make a realistic practice stroke

When you make a practice stroke, make it as realistic as possible in both size and rhythm. Many good putters glance at the target while doing this to gather distance information visually. Your backstroke serves as the distance controller, so aim to replicate the same stroke length you’ll need for the actual putt.

3. Aim the putterface precisely and stabilize it

After gathering your information and making a couple of practice strokes, focus on aiming the putterface perfectly at the spot where you want the ball to start. This is especially crucial on shorter putts, where accurate face alignment is key.

Once you’ve aimed the putterface, place your hands on the grip. This will stabilize the face and prevents twisting or misalignment as you complete your setup.

4. Adjust your body and ball position

Now that your putter face is aimed and stabilized, adjust your body and feet. Ensure your arms hang naturally beneath your shoulders, and check that your ball position is correct. Your feet should be positioned so that the line through your toes is parallel to the aim line of the putter face.

5. One last look – repeat what you rehearsed

When your setup is complete, take one final look at the target. Then, look back at the ball and ensure you’re fully settled. When you execute your stroke, repeat the same rhythm and length you practiced earlier, keeping your body and head still throughout the motion.

As a helpful tip, try to complete your stroke, hold your finish, and then look toward the hole. This minimizes unnecessary body movement, ensuring better control over both distance and direction.