Whether you're a seasoned golfer or new to the greens, improving your putting is key to lowering scores. In a recent video from Coronado Golf Course in sunny San Diego, Blaire McKeithen, head of instruction at AmateurGolf.com, shared a putting drill designed to fine-tune your stroke. Known as the Sam Chien drill, this exercise has been a staple in McKeithen’s practice, helping him elevate his game during his career on tours like the Alps Tour. Now, it's time for you to incorporate it into your routine and start shaving strokes off your score.

What is the Sam Chien Drill?
Named after Northwestern University assistant coach Sam Chien, this drill is simple yet incredibly effective. It focuses on controlling your putter’s face and honing your aim over short distances. This ensures that your stroke is both accurate and consistent, especially in high-pressure situations.

The drill is broken into two key stages: the setup and execution.

Setting Up Your Line
Find Your Line: Start by identifying a line where you feel comfortable. In McKeithen’s case, he chose a slight left-edge putt, as he had been struggling with downhill, left-to-right putts.

Establish Impact Gates
Place tees to create a gate around your putter head. The first gate should be around three inches behind the ball and the second three inches in front. These gates ensure your clubface remains square as you approach and strike the ball.

Outside Gate -- This gate helps prevent pulling the putter outside the target line during your backswing.

Inside Gate -- This ensures your stroke doesn’t veer too far inside, maintaining the correct arc without overcorrecting.

Place a Guide Tee on Your Line -- A key to this drill is placing a tee on your through-line. If you hit this tee during your follow-through, it will serve as a feedback mechanism to guide you toward a more consistent path.