Questions & Answers Responses from PGA/LPGA Teachers on FINDaLESSON.com                                                                                  << BACK From An Amateur:: How can you reduce and eventually eliminate 3-putts? PGA/LPGA TEACHING PROFESSIONAL RESPONSES: California "While I can't provide a sure-fire method to eliminate three-putts, I can help you to reduce them. You know, recently I saw PGA touring professionals three-putt on T.V. Once, I saw the great Jack Nicklaus four-putt at Pebble Beach. Most three putts occur because the approach shot to the green land far distant from the hole. Does three-putt range ring a bell? We're talking about 30 feet or more, and after you putt, it leaves you that dreaded three to four footer that we rarely practice. Years ago, I watched Sam Snead practice three and four footers for about 30 minutes prior to play. A fan asked Mr. Snead "why are you practicing those short putts, this is Riviera, the greens are large you may have 40, 50 footers?" He said, "I don't expect to make those putts - I must make these." I, for one, do not subscribe to the theory of "getting it close, or lag putting." I believe that every putt can be made and should try to be made. So remember, when you go to your practice facility work hard on your approach shots and short putts and experiment with your long putts. If you want to be a great putter, practice putting for miles and miles and miles and miles. For further information seek advice and show this to your local PGA Professional." - A.J. Molitor, Teaching Professional Florida "Most three putts are the result of poor distance control. Distance control is improved through focus and fascination with the target, and not the ball or the stroke. Therefore, the quickest solution is to practice making putts looking at the hole at first, then reducing the time between the last look at the target and the beginning of the stroke. After you shift focus to the target, it is much like playing catch with a ball to develop feel for distance. Your eyes and focus goes to the target, not the mechanics of the throwing motion." - Joe Sciortino, Teaching Professional