Equipment Needed
Step-by-Step Instructions
Pick a flat putt of moderate length (say 10 feet). Instead of a hole, use a tee pushed upside-down into the green or a coin as your target. You want something significantly smaller than a hole.
Try to putt so that the ball would hit the tee or coin. If using a coin, you're trying to get the ball to stop right on it or just barely roll over it.
Focus on your routine and alignment as if that tee were the center of the hole. The smaller target will require a very precise aim and proper speed control.
Hit a batch of putts (e.g., 10 in a row) trying to strike the small target. Even if you don't hit it dead on, note how close each attempt comes.
After practicing on the small target, switch to putting at an actual hole from the same distance. The hole will now look huge in comparison, and you'll find your focus and precision have improved. This mental "zoom out" effect often translates to sinking more putts.
Professional Endorsement
Many tour players use drills with reduced target sizes. For instance, some will putt at a tee or the edge of the cup to hone their focus. It's been noted that Dustin Johnson practices by putting at a tee; when he returns to a normal hole, it appears larger and more forgiving. This is a classic psych-out method to boost on-course confidence.