Tip From the Archives

Green Reading Tip

Problem

You over analyze every bump and dip on the surface of the green and become confused about the break.

Cure

Only look at the major hills and valleys on the green. The only real details that you should be concerned about are the ones around the hole. This is because the ball will be slowing down at this point and thus more sensitive to these smaller details.

Therapy

Look to see if there is any trees near the green. If there is a tree near the green, you will likely see that area of the green to be the highest point. This is because of the roots growing underground in this area. This is often the same situation with sand bunkers. So many people hit out of the bunkers onto the green. This area of the green is being splashed so much that it will create a high point.

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4 votes

 
johnny | 3 years ago, at the end of August

I have no idea what that bit about the bunkers means...I don't thing that an amount of sand on the green affects the break. Putts also tend to break towards a stream or pond nearby and away from any mountains. While we're talking about reading breaks, has anyone ever had any success with holding the putter up in front of you and seeing if it swings a little?

Crystal | 3 years ago, at the end of August

I think what you are referring to is Plumb Bobbing. When you hold the putter out in front of you and close your non-dominate eye, it helps you see which way the green breaks. http://www.golfmedic.net/archive/plumb-bobbing/



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