I honestly don't see a problem with the first group. Yes I know 3 yards or 9 feet whatever you want to call it, but that is where the mass majority of shootings happen. It's fun to try and shoot the smallest group possible, and while that is good to practice and it does make you a better shot at further distances because it's all the same technique, don't rely so heavily on trying to shoot that way all the time.

Heck, I fire hundreds of rounds a month from my pistol, I'm happy if all the shots are within a 10 inch circle from 25yds and in. I always practice shooting one handed and off handed, practice point and shoot using only your peripheral vision to pick up the slide of the weapon, and always practice shooting from the hip just after you draw your weapon. When the SHTF and you have to use your weapon I doubt you are going to obtain the perfect sight picture.

Another reason for not practicing all the time for perfect groups is, most times 1 shot does not kill or stop the threat, so if that 1 shot was well placed, then why try and fire a second shot into that same hole? Make them hurt, if the first didn't work, find a different spot. It's your life, make it your fight, and go home in the end.

Not busy in the OP, you've made a heck of an improvement and keep up the good work.

Good improvement

Shows you paid attention, now to practice and keep improving. Don't fall back into old habits like I have seen so may shooters do.

the most important factor in good pistol shooting is

grip and stance

60% grip left hand, 40% grip right hand
shoulder up, slight bend in knees

ammo is important but only if you 're into match shooting
ex: in my 1911 ; factory ammo @ 25 yds I get 6-8" group
with my handloaded ammo I get 2" @ 25

but that's not real life defensive distance, for that
it's usually around 3ft- 3yds .... that' s why your
instructor got you started at that distance

huge improvement, keep it up

What pistol are you shooting?