Instructional Video
Equipment Needed
Step-by-Step Instructions
Take a standard metal yardstick (approximately 3 feet long and very flat). Find a flat section of putting green or even a smooth carpet at home can work for this drill.
Place a golf ball on one end of the yardstick. The yardstick should point toward a target (on a green, you can aim it at a hole; indoors, maybe a wall or mark). Ensure the yardstick is aligned perfectly on the intended line.
Using your normal putting stroke, hit the ball so that it rolls along the top of the yardstick. The goal is for the ball to stay on the yardstick all the way to the far end without falling off the sides.
If the ball rolls off the side early, it indicates the face was not square at impact or the stroke pushed/pulled the ball. If it doesn't reach the end, it might suggest deceleration or a mis-hit.
Practice repeatedly until you can consistently roll the ball the full length of the yardstick. As you master this, when you remove the yardstick and putt normally, the start line and quality of your roll on short putts should be significantly improved.
Professional Endorsement
Top putting coaches and players use this drill. PGA Tour player Brad Faxon (known as one of the best putters) has advocated the yardstick drill to amateurs. You'll often see players like Rickie Fowler or Lydia Ko using training aids similar to a yardstick (like putting boards) – the concept is the same: groove a perfect start line.