Putting is 40% of your score. It is crucial that you become a proficient putter to be a good golfer. Nothing is more frustrating than hitting two great shots into a par 4 hole and then walking away from the green with a 5 because of a 3-putt.

Every golfer has a chance to become an excellent putter. It does not take extraordinary physical skill, strength or coordination. You should try to become a great putter. Improving my putting is always a goal of mine. Good putting skills allow you to make birdies when you hit greens in regulation and save par when you miss greens.

To become a great putter you just need to master a few basic fundamentals. Although there are many different styles of putting, most great putters have a basic fundamentals in common. If you are already a great putter, then continue to keep doing what you are doing. But if you could use some help, try to incorporate some of these skills into your game.

The putting stroke can be a very individualistic process for each person but within that there are certain fundamentals that all great putters have. Proper fundamentals will allow for the easiest possible way to achieve the correct feel and touch.

The first priority is to obtain the correct grip and posture.

The hands need to oppose each other while both thumbs should set strainght down the grip, so the grip sits up in the palm. Although Phil Mickleson advocates that the grip should be more in the fingers. He feels that this grip will help you release the putter head, while other pros think that the grip in the fingers will cause too much hand action. So you will have to experiment for yourself. Try it both ways and see what works for you. I personally teach that the grip should be in up in the palms, but who am I to argue with Phil Mickelson. Like I said, putting is very individualistic.

Here are some other keys:

1. Eyes over the line of the putt.

2. Square alignment with your eyes, shoulders, hips, feet and even forearms parallel to your target line.

3. Arms hang down naturally.

4. Weight slightly on your front leg.

5. Hands slightly pressed forward.

6. Relaxed and light grip pressure as well as softness in your arms and shoulders.