One of the most crucial elements of successful putting is accurately reading the green. Understanding the subtle contours, slope, and grain of the grass can be the difference between a birdie and a bogey. Use these tips to help improve your green-reading skills.

1. The Walk-Up

Before you even address the ball, begin reading the green as you walk towards it.

• Walk a circle around the hole: Don't just look from behind the ball. Walk around the cup and the ball, observing the green from all angles. The break you see from one side might be completely different from the other.
• Feel the slope with your feet: Your feet are more sensitive to subtle changes in elevation than your eyes. As you walk, pay attention to which way your body naturally leans.
• The Mid-Point: Try to identify the high point or apex of the putt, where the ball will start to curve in the opposite direction.

2. Low-Side Reading (The Pro Read)

Many professional golfers prefer to read the putt from the low side of the hole.

Looking up the slope from the low side often provides a clearer view of the break. The entire line of the putt should be visible, making it easier to judge how much the ball will turn.

3. Consider the Grain

The direction in which the grass is growing (the grain) will affect the speed and break of your putt.

• Shiny vs. Dull: If the grass looks shiny or lighter in color, the grain is growing away from you (with the putt). This will make the putt faster. If the grass looks dull or darker, the grain is growing toward you (against the putt), making the putt slower.
• Reading Near the Hole: The grain often grows toward the nearest water source or the setting sun.

4. Distance and Speed

Speed and break are inextricably linked. The faster you hit the ball, the less it will break.

• Aim to Die it at the Hole (in most cases): For maximum break, you want the ball to slow down as it approaches the hole, allowing gravity to pull it along the slope.
• Practice Drills: Work on your distance control with this drill. Identify a flat spot on the practice green, and try to putt to three different distances—a short, medium, and long putt—and consistently hit the ball past the hole by 12-18 inches.

5. Marking Your Ball

Before putting, always ensure you mark your ball correctly. The position where you mark the ball can help you confirm your line.

• Use a line on your golf ball to align with your intended starting line.
• Check the alignment from a crouched position to make sure the line is correct.