How to Practice Pressure Putts (So You Stop Leaving Strokes Out There)

Martin Du Toit··Advanced
Putting green at dusk with golfer over short putt and balls placed at 3, 6, 9 feet in ladder pattern

Most golfers 'practice' putting by rolling a few and leaving. Then they wonder why 4-footers feel scary. Pressure putting is trainable: if you add consequences.

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The Two Skills: Start Line + Speed

If either is poor, pressure magnifies it.

Drill 1: 3–6–9 Ladder (Must-Make)

3 putts from 3 feet, 3 putts from 6 feet, 3 putts from 9 feet. Miss and restart.

Drill 2: 4-Foot Circle (Putt-Out)

Place 8 balls in a circle at 4 feet. Make 6/8 minimum.

Drill 3: Lag Putting Ladder

Putt 20, 30, 40 feet. Goal: finish inside 3 feet.

Pressure practice is what turns 'good strokes' into made putts.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are pressure putting drills?

They add consequences and scoring so your putting practice matches on-course stress.

How do I get better at short putts?

Use a must-make ladder or a 4-foot circle with a minimum make requirement and restarts.

How do I practice lag putting?

Use a distance ladder and score how many finish inside a 3-foot circle.

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