It’s been a week since we watched Rory McIlroy slip on the green jacket at Augusta National, but while you were watching last week, you may have noticed some players, like Justin Rose and Bryson DeChambeau, doing something unusual on the greens and wondered what it was all about.

During my morning scroll on Instagram, I found the answer and had to share this clever trick with you.

In the clip below, GOLF Top 100 Teacher, Erika Larkin explains that players were using their putters to check their alignment during the Masters this year, but not in the way you might think. 

Plumbobbing? Think again

Many fans at home assumed that players were plumbobbing on the greens. However, Larkin reveals that players weren’t using their putters to read putts, they were actually using the club shaft to confirm that the line on their ball matches the line they selected based on the speed and break.

Essentially, Larkin says, players were using the shaft of their putter to trace the extension of their ball line and check that it matches up with their read. Confirming the ball is lined up properly is a great way for players —both pros and amateurs— to double-check their alignment and boost their confidence before stepping over their putt. 

The best part is, you can use this clever trick too. According to Larkin, you just need to follow three simple steps to add this to your putting routine. 

How to line up like a pro

Step 1: Align the line on your ball with your intended start line

Step 2: Take a step or two back, and either standing or squatting, raise your putter up so it looks as though it’s on top of the alignment line or aid on your ball.

Step 3: Check that the line on your ball is aligned with your intended start line. If it is, you can step up and hit it.

Larkin also suggests closing your non-dominant eye for a more accurate assessment behind the ball.

“Things always look different over the ball,” Larkin says, “This should help you trust your alignment, make a confident stroke and make more putts.”

Next time you’re putting, try this smart strategy out to see how it helps your game on the green. Who knows, maybe it’ll be just what you needed to make more putts. 

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