Day 1: Putting Basics + Making Solid Contact

MAKE YOUR SHORT PUTTS
Standing over a four-footer, a lot of golfers get psyched out and end up making a quick, jabby stroke. To feel a smoother motion, practice short putts with your bottom hand holding the grip with only the index finger and thumb. This "pinch grip" is weaker and will take out some of the hit. —Brian Schorsten, a Golf Digest Best Young Teacher

GET MORE SOLID STRIKES
Think of impact like striking a match: The club is the matchstick, and the ground is the matchbox. Focus on leg action to understand the leverage you need to create speed. Feel like your left leg pushes the club back, then your right leg drives through. With your lower body supporting the motion like this, you can accelerate the club—and strike the match. —Brian Schorsten

BONUS TIP
BUTCH HARMON: DOWNHILL SLIDERS
Harmon says the best way to handle speedy downhill putts is to take a very light grip and try to make a slow-motion stroke. The ball will come off the putterface slowly and won't get away from you.