Drain 3-Foot Putts: A Top 100 Teacher’s Simple Guide
Golfers struggling with short putts – those nerve-wracking three-footers that often decide matches – may find a solution in a five-step approach outlined by David Armitage, a GOLF Top 100 Teacher. Armitage’s method, detailed today, focuses on setup and a simple mantra: “if it’s long, it’s wrong.”
The tension surrounding these seemingly easy putts is a common experience, Armitage notes. “Suddenly, what should be a ‘gimme’ feels anything but guaranteed and you can’t shake the sense that the putt is yours to miss rather than make,” he explained. His system aims to eliminate that pressure by emphasizing a correct setup as the foundation for success.
A crucial first step, according to Armitage, is dedicating time to proper alignment. “Ninety-five percent of this putt is already done once the ball’s on the ground and it’s lined up,” he says. Although he personally prefers utilizing a line on the golf ball, he stresses the importance of consistency, whether that involves a drawn line, the ball’s logo, or a built-in alignment aid. He also points out that putts of this length typically exhibit minimal break, often staying “inside the hole,” meaning a direct line is often the most effective.
Beyond alignment, Armitage advises golfers to focus on speed rather than direction during the stroke. He observes that many amateurs become preoccupied with avoiding missing left or right, filling their minds with “don’ts.” Instead, he recommends concentrating solely on pace, trusting the previously established line. “What a lot of people are doing is they’re thinking about direction whilst they’re hitting the putt,” Armitage said.
The technique also incorporates a physical guide for the stroke itself. Armitage suggests a short, efficient stroke, stating, “If your stroke gets long, it’s wrong.” He recommends using the golfer’s toes as a reference point – taking the putter back to the trail toe and finishing at the front toe – to maintain a stable and controlled motion. This limits manipulation of the putter face and prevents deceleration through impact.
Counterintuitively, Armitage encourages golfers to listen for the ball to drop into the hole, rather than watching it. “That sound, for me, is something that I want to hear,” he stated. He notes some professional golfers even close their eyes during the stroke, trusting their technique. Practicing this technique involves focusing on a spot in front of the ball or keeping eyes closed to maintain a still head position.
Finally, Armitage emphasizes the importance of expectation. He advises golfers to “always expect to have to hole this putt,” approaching each short putt with the mindset that it must be made. This proactive approach, he believes, builds confidence and prepares golfers to perform under pressure. Armitage was recently recognized as one of Golf.com’s Top 100 Instructors, according to a post on his Instagram account in November 2025.