If you’re serious about lowering your scores, it’s time to rethink how you practice.
Most golfers spend the bulk of their time on the driving range, working on full swings, chasing distance, and trying to “fix” their mechanics. But here’s the truth: the fastest way to improve your scores isn’t found with a driver in your hands.
It’s found inside 100 yards.
At the David DeMay Golf Academy, we emphasize a simple but powerful principle:
80% of your practice time should be dedicated to your short game…specifically putting and chipping.
Let’s break down why that matters and how you can start practicing smarter.
The Reality of Scoring
Think about your last round. How many full swings did you take compared to short shots?
- You might hit 10–14 drives in a round.
- But you’ll likely take 30–40 putts.
- Add in chips and pitches, and suddenly over half your shots happen around the green.
That’s where scores are made – or lost.
You don’t need perfect ball striking to shoot lower scores. You need consistency when it matters most: getting the ball in the hole.
Putting: The Great Equalizer
Putting is the most important skill in golf – period.
You don’t need elite athleticism. You don’t need speed. You need control, feel, and confidence.
What to focus on:
- Distance control (lag putting)
- Start line (aim and face control)
- Consistent routine
Simple Practice Drill:
For Lag Putts: (15 feet or more) Create a circle of tees around the hole (3–5 feet). Put to the circle of tees, not the hole. This creates more two putts and builds confidence while eliminating three-putts.
Key Thought:
Great putters aren’t perfect—they’re reliable.
Chipping: Your Secret Weapon
Chipping is where you can save strokes quickly.
A solid chip sets up easy putts. A poor chip leads to frustration.
What to focus on:
- Clean contact (hold your wrists and hit down on the ball)
- Landing spot awareness (always choose a target to land)
- Predictable roll-out (decide what club allows you to control the shot)
Simple Practice Drill:
Pick a landing spot just onto the green and practice landing balls there repeatedly. Let the ball roll to the hole. This trains feel and consistency.
Key Thought:
You’re not trying to be flashy – you’re trying to be consistent.
Why 80% Works
When you dedicate most of your practice to putting and chipping:
- You eliminate three-putts
- You get up-and-down more often
- You reduce pressure on your full swing
- You build confidence where it matters most
Ironically, when your short game improves, your long game often follows, because you’re playing with less stress and more confidence.
How to Structure Your Practice
Here’s a simple breakdown for a 60-minute session:
- 30 minutes putting
- 15 min distance control
- 15 min short putts (inside 6 feet)
- 20 minutes chipping
- Focus on different lies and landing spots
- 10 minutes full swing
- Keep it purposeful, not mechanical overload
Final Thought
Golf isn’t about perfect swings – it’s about scoring.
If you want to shoot lower numbers, stop chasing perfection on the range and start mastering the shots that actually matter.
Commit to the 80% rule.
Your scores will thank you.