The present study attempts to estimate the gap in the attainable cotton productivity in Dharwad and Raichur districts of Karnataka based on the data from 240 randomly selected cotton growing farmers, besides the relevant demonstration data. Path-coefficient analysis was used to analyse the nature of association between the gap in the attainable productivity and the sub-optimal input use. The study revealed that there was well over 40 per cent gap in the attainable cotton productivity which was mainly attributed to the sub-optimal input use. Sub-optimal use of plant nutrients followed by plant protection chemicals and labour were the most important factors influencing the gap in the attainable cotton productivity.