The Simple Truth Most Golfers Miss
If you’re just off the green and unsure what to do, here’s a good starting point.
Most golfers should putt more often than they chip.
That might go against what you’ve been told, but for the majority of players, it leads to better results.
Why? Because an average putt is usually better than an average chip, a poor putt is often still closer than a poor chip, and there is simply less that can go wrong.
When Putting Is the Better Option
As a general rule, lean towards putting if:
- There are no obstacles in your way
- The grass between you and the green is short or predictable
- You can read the shot like a putt
- You feel more confident with the putter
Fringe, light rough and lies just off the green are often perfect situations to putt.
When You Should Chip Instead
Chipping becomes the better option when putting isn’t realistic.
Look to chip if you have:
- Thick or long rough between you and the green
- Sprinkler heads, slopes, or obstacles in the way
- A need to carry the ball onto the green
- Very uneven ground that makes putting unpredictable
In these cases, trying to force a putt usually creates more problems. If your chipping is the part you do not trust, how to chip consistently is the place to start.
A Simple Way to Judge the Shot
This is where a lot of golfers improve quickly.
Instead of guessing, try this.
Step 1: Imagine the putt
Picture the ball already on the green and ask yourself how hard you would need to hit it, and what length of stroke you would use.
Step 2: Add the fringe distance
Now factor in the fringe or rough the ball needs to travel through, and how much that will slow the ball down.
You are essentially combining putt feel with extra resistance, which gives you a much better sense of pace.
Confidence Matters More Than Technique
One of the biggest mistakes golfers make is choosing the “right” shot instead of the confident one.
If you are a decent putter and your chipping feels inconsistent, putting becomes a very smart default option.
There’s no point choosing a chip if you don’t trust it.
The Real Goal: Lower Scores
This isn’t about what looks best, it’s about what works.
For most golfers, putting is more predictable, chipping introduces more variables, and simplicity leads to better results.
If in doubt, get the ball rolling on the ground as early as possible.
Want to Improve Around the Greens Faster?
Short game is one of the quickest ways to lower your scores.
If you want to build confidence with both chipping and putting, half an hour of coaching with one of our PGA Professionals can make a large difference. It is also worth making sure the tools suit you, whether that is the right wedge or a putter that fits your stroke.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it always better to putt than chip?
No, but for most golfers, putting is the safer and more consistent option when there are no obstacles.
What club should I use around the green?
If you can putt, use a putter. If you need to carry the ball, use a wedge.
How do I get better at judging distance from off the green?
Use the imagine the putt first method, then adjust for the fringe or rough.
Why do I struggle more with chipping than putting?
Chipping requires more precision and timing, putting is generally simpler and more repeatable.
Final Thoughts
When you’re just off the green, don’t overcomplicate it.
Most of the time, putting is the simpler, safer and smarter play.
Use chipping when you need it, but don’t feel like you have to.
Happy golfing,
Scott
