When calculating the par for a hole, the designers always allow for two putts. So on a par 3, you are expected to reach the green with your first shot. On a par 4, you should reach the green in no more than two shots and on a par 5, you should reach in no more than three shots. To achieve a green in regulation (GIR), your ball must be on the putting surface in the expected number of strokes in relation to par. It doesn't count as a GIR if the ball is in the fringe, but you are still able (or decide) to putt. The ball must be on the putting surface.

If two strokes per hole are set aside for putting, then on a standard par 72 course you should expect to run up an average of 36 shots just on the putting green. It makes sense that you spend time practising your putting stroke to maximize your scoring potential.

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