When most golfers talk about improving their game, they focus on the big swing, driving distance, hitting the fairway, and launching long irons. But here’s a little secret every low-handicap player knows:
If you want to lower your scores fast, the short game is where the magic happens.
Putting and chipping may not have the “wow” factor of a booming drive, but they’re the real difference-makers. In fact, roughly 60% of your strokes in a typical round come from within 100 yards. That means if you’re serious about improving, the green (and just off it) is where you should be spending your time.
Secret #1: Consistency Beats Creativity Around the Green
Ever seen a golfer try to flop a shot from a tight lie… and completely blade it across the green? While it might feel good to attempt a Tour-level shot, most of the time, simple is smarter.
Secret #2: Putting is Part Skill, Part Routine
Putting isn’t just about reading the break. It’s also about routine and mindset.
If you watch the pros, they treat every putt — from 3 feet to 30 feet with the same pre-shot process. Why? Because consistency breeds confidence, and confidence sinks putts.
💡 Tip: Develop a simple routine that works for you. Stick to it. Every. Single. Time.
Secret #3: Speed > Line
Amateur golfers spend way too much time obsessing over the line and not enough on speed control.
Think about it: If your speed is right, even a slightly off-line putt still has a good chance of dropping or leaving you with a tap-in. But if your speed is wrong? Even the perfect line won’t save you.
💡 Drill to Try: The “ladder drill” – Place five tees at 3, 6, 9, 12, and 15 feet. Practice putting from the same spot and try to stop the ball right at each tee. No cups, just distance control.
Secret #4: Your Lie Dictates Your Shot
This one’s simple but often overlooked: let the lie decide your shot, not your ego.
Many golfers get in trouble because they try to force a shot that doesn’t fit the lie. Don’t be that golfer.
Want to Master Your Short Game?
Here in Traverse City, we’re lucky to have beautiful and challenging courses. But that also means your short game has to adapt to different turf types, green speeds, and weather conditions.
If you’re struggling with chipping, putting, or getting up-and-down around the green, professional short game lessons can help you gain control, build confidence, and lower your golf score faster.
✅ Private lessons
✅ Short game clinics
Let’s make those tricky greens your favorite part of the course.
Ready to drop strokes fast?
Book a short game lesson today and start mastering the skills that really lower scores.
📞 Contact: 616.780.4054
📍 Serving golfers at Elmbrook Golf Course or course of choosing.
English 