Compare the styles of great putters and you will find many differences in stance, stroke and equipment. There are however, two noticeable features that all excellent putters have in common.  First, they all strike the ball solidly on the clubface so that it rolls smoothly along the ground. Their ball seems to “hug the ground” as it rolls end-over-end on the green. Rarely will you see a good putter strike a putt and have the ball hop off the clubface and bounce along the ground as it rolls to the cup.  Secondly, their feel for distance is finely tuned. It is uncommon for an excellent putter to leave a lag putt 10 feet short or blow one way past the hole. 

Here's how to correct a common error that causes players to mishit their putts, preventing a smooth roll and consistent distance control:

During the stroke the arms and the putter should work together as a team. Most poor putters overuse the wrists, especially in the forward stroke.  This prevents the hands and the club head from moving through the impact area at the same speed, a key for consistent putting.  If the wrists break down in the forward stroke the angle of the putter face will be altered (causing poor contact) and club head speed will be inconsistent (poor distance control). To fix this fault use the following drill:

Place a ball between the handle of the putter and the inside of your right forearm.  Stroke some medium-length putts keeping the ball lodged in place.  The wrists will stay quiet during the stroke, allowing your arms and the putter to work together as a team.

Try this drill on the practice green and you’ll roll the ball better, sharpen your touch and shoot lower scores!

Scott Fossum, Teaching Professional