Putting: the art of hitting a golf ball with a specially designed club such that it rolls along the ground towards a target, traditionally a hole in the ground

Pin: a metal or fiberglass pole and flag which marks the hole. Sometimes pin refers to the hole itself. The pin is usually removed from the hole before putting. On long putts some players prefer to leave the pin in to make the hole easier to find. A caddy or another player may stand next to the pin and pull it out during the putt when the ball gets close to the hole. It's the choice of the player putting to decide whether or not they want the pin removed prior to putting.

Cup: another term for a hole on a golf course. Modern golf courses install a white plastic cylinder into the holes to ensure an exact, uniform shape and depth. When practicing indoors a plain old cup laid on its side can make a very useful target.

Green: the special section of a golf hole, where the cup is placed and the grass is cut very short.

Grip: the way a golf club is held. Also the name for the handle of the club itself.

Lay: the slope of a putting green. Natural surfaces are never perfectly flat. Spend enough time looking at the hole to determine which direction the slope is running downhill. For instance if the lay is to the right the ball will "break" to the right as it rolls. Adjust your swing to compensate this important factor.

2torial #0814: Learn2 Sink a Putt (Continued) Choose it There are probably as many different types of putters as there are golfers in the world. When choosing a putter for yourself, ask the advice of a local golf pro. You'll want one that feels comfortable in your hands, is long enough to reach the ground without undue stooping, and which you can swing smoothly and evenly. Putters have three parts: the head, the shaft and the grip. Choose a putter with a smooth, perfectly flat striking surface on the head. Quite often there is a line or notch inscribed on the top edge of the putting head. This mark indicates the optimal spot on the striking surface with which to hit the ball. Hold the putter with the bottom of the head lying flat upon the ground--not angled either toward or away from you. Grip the club using the method described below in Step 2. The club should feel comfortable and lively; it shouldn't make your hands cramp. If you're stuck with a putter that is either too short or too long for you, make the most of it by adjusting your stance. Keep your back, shoulders and arms exactly normal: loose, flexible, and slightly bending. Hold the putter with your normal grip and notice where the bottom rests in relation to the ground. If the putter hovers above the ground, it's too short for you. Bend your knees until the bottom of the putter rests lightly upon the ground. If the putter is too long, then choke up on it by moving your hands further down along the grip until you're standing comfortably and the bottom of the putter rests lightly on the ground. Use follow through: after releasing the ball, point your fingers at the basket. Step 1