Direct answer: A three-putt routine should train two separate jobs: pace on the first putt and a dependable process on the second. Start with finish zones, then add short-putt start-line work, and finish with a scored game.
- 10 minutes: long-putt pace to a finish zone.
- 10 minutes: short-putt start line through a gate.
- 10 minutes: one-ball, two-putt challenge from varied distances.
The plan at a glance
| Block | Setup | Score |
|---|---|---|
| Pace | Long putts to a three-foot finish zone | Inside zone out of 10 |
| Start line | Short putts through a tee gate | Through gate out of 10 |
| Transfer | One ball from varied locations | Two putts or fewer |
Build a pace target
Place tees or flat markers around the hole to create a finish zone. Putt from several long distances and count balls that stop inside the zone, whether they finish short, long, left, or right.
Change location after a few attempts. Repeating one exact uphill putt can make the task look better without preparing you for the next green.
Train start line separately
For short putts, create a gate just wider than the ball on your intended line. Count putts that start through the gate; do not make the result depend only on whether the ball falls into the cup.
If pain, balance, or setup uncertainty limits practice, seek qualified help rather than forcing repetitions.
Finish with one-ball transfer
Drop one ball at a different location each time. Read it, choose pace and line, and complete the hole. Score a point for every two-putt or better.
This block adds the decision and routine that disappear when the same putt is replayed ten times.
Track the result on the course
Count three-putts for three rounds and note whether they began with poor pace, a missed short second putt, or an unusually difficult starting position.
Then match the next routine to the cause. The free checklist includes the full three-round tracker.
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Optional tools that make the drill easier to score
For start-line work, the SKLZ Putt Path Gates give you three gate widths so the drill can become harder as your control improves. For pace plus direction, the PuttOUT Premium Pressure Putt Trainer returns imperfect putts according to how far they would have rolled past the hole. Choose the one that matches your main leak rather than buying both immediately.
Your next step
Download the free Break 100 Practice Checklist to identify the priority. When you want four weeks already scheduled, use the 4-Week Break 100 Practice Plan.
Related: How to Break 100 in Golf and the five-stroke-leak audit.