World-renowned short game guru James Sieckmann once again shared his expert insights with us at Golfaq.com. Last year, we published some of Sieckmann's most valuable secrets around the greens that resonated strongly with readers. Seeing the positive feedback, we continued our discussion with this acclaimed coach.

Sieckmann, who has trained countless champions on their short games over the years, focused on the art of putting. As someone who has analyzed strokes and routines from the best players, he acknowledged putting is the one part of the game where any amateur can directly compare their abilities. According to Sieckmann, success here boils down to the right mental strategies rather than physical prowess.

One common thread Sieckmann hears from his high-level students is difficulty converting makeable putts from 8-20 feet out. While the technical stroke looks sound up close, these medium-length efforts often miss the mark. Sieckmann labels such putts "difference makers," emphasizing the importance of marrying line and pace. To do so in a consistent, organized manner is the separator.

Unfortunately, most golfers' pre-putt routines lack clarity and intention around speed. Rather than seeing the putt holistically from start to finish, many amateurs view it as simply choosing an initial aim line. Sieckmann recommends his renowned four-point process to better envision each roll of the ball. This methodical technique leads to improved reads and, ultimately, more sinking putts. Sieckmann's system has paid dividends for the game's elite - it surely can help us mere mortals as well.

1. Identify the Entry Point

The first vital part of Sieckmann's routine is finding the "entry point". This refers to visually identifying where the golfer wants the ball to enter the cup on its intended route to the bottom of the hole. To do so, stand opposite the pin and picture the ideal "front door" gateway. In his demonstration, Sieckmann placed balls around the hole to simulate this target zone.

2. Assess from the Mid-Point

With the entry point locked in mentally, the player then walks back towards their ball. At the midway point between the ball and cup, they pause to gain perspective on the putt shape. Sieckmann stresses viewing it from this central vantage to determine the overall gradient - is the putting surface sloping up or down towards the hole from the ball's position? 

3. Envision the 'Action Track'

Once the preferred entry point is clear, Sieckmann stresses going through the mental image of "how" the ball will navigate there. The golfer returns focus to their ball and envisions the entire "action track" from start to finish.

4. Determine Your Start Line

With the full route now contemplated, it's time to determine the precise start line. However, Sieckmann says projecting straight towards the cup often ignores crucial nuances in speed. Instead, he chooses a "near target" object just past the ball before the "far target" of the intended entry point.

As the game's most sought after short game coach, Sieckmann knows the power of this dual target imagery. If internalized completely, it allegedly produces an automatic and athletic stroke capable of capturing those all-important 10-20 footers. Given his resume, it's little wonder Sieckmann's methods have paid off for the sport's elite - and could certainly do the same for amateurs.

Read more: 3 Ways to Improve Your Golf IQ and Shoot Lower Scores