Putting
Beginner

Around the World (Clock Drill)

Builds confidence on short putts from all sides of the hole and introduces mild pressure. By seeing putts go in from various angles and making many in a row, a beginner's fear of those knee-knockers diminishes.

Instructional Video

Equipment Needed

Putter
10+ tees
1 golf ball

Step-by-Step Instructions

1

Set up 6 to 10 golf tees in a circle around a hole, each tee about 3 feet from the cup (like numbers on a clock).

2

Starting at one tee, attempt the 3-foot putt. If you make it, move to the next tee and putt from there. If you miss, you should start over from the first tee (this creates pressure to complete the 'around the world' without a miss).

3

Try to make one putt at each "hour" around the circle in succession. That would be one successful round.

4

As you improve, increase the distance to 4 feet or even 5 feet. You can also add more putts around the circle (e.g., 12 stations instead of 6) or require two consecutive rounds. The key is consistent setup and stroke on each putt, no matter the angle.

5

Track your progress – for example, 'I made 10 in a row today'. This drill also highlights any particular angle that gives you trouble, allowing you to focus practice there.

Professional Endorsement

This is a staple drill for many tour players. Rory McIlroy and Rickie Fowler have been seen doing clock drills in practice. Tiger Woods famously would not leave the putting green until he made a certain large number of 3- to 4-footers in a row, a concept similar to completing the circle without a miss.