For most golfers, the saying, "Putt whenever you can putt -- chip when you cannot putt -- pitch only when you must" is a valid rule.

That's because the new runoff areas that are so prevalent in golf today require for you to develop off-green putting skills. You need to recognize the fact that even when the ball is not on the green surface, it does not necessarily keep you from using your putter.

First, determine the condition of the surface that your ball will be rolling across. Ask yourself: How much longer is the grass than the putting surface? Is the soil under the grass firm or soft? Is there any grass that will get between the putter blade and the ball? How are both the stance and slope that the ball rests on?

Next, you need to determine the conditions of the green surface that the ball will roll across. Is it sloped toward you or away? What is the direction of the grain on the green? Are there any mounds that must be crossed or avoided?

Calculate the total distance of the putt on and off the green before you make any decision on club selection.

Your club choice is definitely a putter when you are putting from short distance, and there is a close-to-the-greens edge. However, hybrid or fairway wood can be used when the putting stroke distance is longer than a normal putt. Use a more lofted hybrid or fairway wood if the grass is longer between the ball and green or the ground is soft.

When using a hybrid or fairway wood, stand the club on the toe at address so that the shaft has the same angle from the ground to your hands as your putter. As you make your stroke, be sure to envision the ball rolling on to the green at the speed necessary to reach the hole. Then, let your feel take control.

The next time that you are out for a practice round, try putting from locations where you would normally chip and pitch. You will likely surprise yourself with some rolling shots that finish on target.

If you'd like to practice both traditional and off-green putts, the PGA Learning Center in Port St. Lucie, Fla., has putting stations and a short-game area for you to hone your stroke. For more information, call 800-800-GOLF (4653) or visit www.pgavillage.com.

For those of you looking for a golf instructor in your neighborhood, be sure to visit www.playgolfamerica.com and use the Zip code search to find a PGA Professional near you.

Until next time, here's to better golf!

Rick Martino is Director of Instruction for The PGA of America. He teaches at the PGA Learning Center in Port St. Lucie, Fla., and is ranked among the Top 50 instructors by Golf Digest Magazine. The author of the PGA Manual of Golf (Warner Books/$34.95), Martino can be reached at (800) 800-GOLF or by email at pgalearningcenter@pgahq.com.