How to read a putt

Reading a putt in golf is the process of determining the line and speed at which you should hit the ball to get it into the hole. It's a crucial skill that can significantly impact your overall score. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to read a putt:

1. Approach the Green: As you approach the green, take note of the overall slope and contour of the putting surface. This includes any uphill, downhill, or sidehill slopes.

2. Mark Your Ball: Before reading the putt, mark your ball's position on the green and clean it if necessary.

3. Position Yourself Behind the Ball: Stand behind your ball and look at the line between your ball and the hole. This is known as the "line of the putt."

4. Crouch Down: Crouch down behind your ball to get a lower perspective on the line. This will help you see any subtle breaks in the green.

5. Assess the Break: Observe the green for any visual cues that indicate the direction the ball will break. These can include:

   • Grain: In Bermuda or bentgrass greens, the direction in which the grass blades are leaning can influence the break.
   • Slope: Look for any noticeable slopes or contours in the green that will direct the ball.
   • Water Drainage: Water naturally flows downhill, so consider how this might affect the break.

6. Read the Green from Multiple Angles: Walk around the hole and examine the green from various angles to get a better sense of the overall slope and any hidden breaks.

7. Visualize the Path: Close your eyes and visualize the path your ball will take from your current position to the hole. Try to imagine the ball rolling along the line you've chosen.

8. Select Your Target Point: Choose a specific point on the green where you want your ball to start rolling. This point is often referred to as your "target" or "aiming point."

9. Factor in the Speed: Consider the speed of the putt. If the green is fast, you'll need to hit the ball with less force. If it's slow, you'll need to give it more power.

10. Confirm Your Line: Stand behind the ball again and double-check your chosen line. You may want to have a final look from both sides of the hole.

11. Alignment: Once you're ready to putt, align your putter face to your chosen target point and ensure your feet, hips, and shoulders are parallel to the line you've selected.

12. Practice Stroke: Make a practice stroke while keeping your eyes on your target point. This helps you get a feel for the distance and line.

13. Execute the Putt: Trust your read and execute the putt. Focus on a smooth, controlled stroke that sends the ball along your chosen line with the appropriate speed.

14. Follow the Ball: Keep your eyes on the ball as it rolls toward the hole. This will help you assess whether your read was accurate and whether any last-minute breaks influenced the putt.

15. Learn from Each Putt: Regardless of the outcome, learn from each putt. Pay attention to how the ball reacted to your read, especially if it didn't go as expected. This will help you improve your reading skills over time.

Reading putts effectively takes practice and experience. As you gain more experience on different greens, you'll become better at recognizing subtle slopes and breaks. Remember that no two putts are exactly alike, so adapt your reading to the specific conditions of each putt.