Pool Fundamentals

8/8/2019 Pool Fundamentals

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Copyright 2008 by Patrick Riley & Larry Malloy

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means electronic ormechanical including photocopy, recording, or any information storage, and retrieval system without permission in writing from thepublisher.

Requests for permission to make copies of any part of the work should be mailed to the following address:

Permission Department, PoolDrills.com LLC

13427 Krameria Street, Thornton, CO 80602

720-333-6120


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Copyright 2008 PoolDrills.com LLC. All Rights Reserved.

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Table of Contents

Introduction ..................................................................................................................................................................................... 5Introduction ................................................................................................................................................................................... 6

The Basics......................................................................................................................................................................................... 7The Chalk ..................................................................................................................................................................................... 8

The Open or V Bridge ................................................................................................................................................................ 8

The Basic or Closed Bridge ............. ............. ............. ............. ............. ............. ............. ............. ............. ............. ............. ............ 8

The Rail Bridge ............................................................................................................................................................................. 9Using the Mechanical Bridge ......................................................................................................................................................... 9

The Grip..................... ............ .............. ............. ............ .............. ............ ............. .............. ............ ............. ............. ............. ........ 9

Swing & Stroke ............................................................................................................................................................................. 9

Stance ........................................................................................................................................................................................... 9

Follow Through ............ ............. ............. ............. ............. ............ .............. ............. ............. ............ .............. ............. ............ ...... 9

Practice Drills ............. ............. ............. ............. ............. ............. .............. ............ ............. ............. ............. ............. ............. ........ 10

Drill 1: Follow Through ............................................................................................................................................................... 11Drill 2: Speed Control (Exercise A) ............................................................................................................................................. 12

Drill 2: Speed Control (Exercise B) .............................................................................................................................................. 13

Drill 2: Speed Control (Exercise C) .............................................................................................................................................. 14

Drill 2: Speed Control (Exercise D) ............................................................................................................................................. 15Drill 3: Stop Shot......................................................................................................................................................................... 16

Drill 4: Follow Shot ..................................................................................................................................................................... 17Drill 5: Draw Shot ....................................................................................................................................................................... 18

Drill 6: Stop, Follow, Draw ......................................................................................................................................................... 19

Drill 7: Tangent LinesStop Shot ............ ............. ............. ............. ............. ............. ............. ............. ............. ............ ............. .. 20

Drill 8: Tangent LinesFollow Shot Speed Control .................................................................................................................... 21

Drill 9A: Tangent Lines - Draw ................................................................................................................................................... 22

Drill 9B: Tangent LinesStop, Follow, Draw ............................................................................................................................. 23

Drill 10: Cut Shot ........................................................................................................................................................................ 24

Drill 11: Cut Shot ........................................................................................................................................................................ 25

Drill 12: Rail Shot ....................................................................................................................................................................... 26Drill 13: Cut Shot ........................................................................................................................................................................ 27

Drill 14: Aiming .......................................................................................................................................................................... 28Drill 15: Eight Ball Break (The Power Break) .............................................................................................................................. 29

8-Ball Break & 9-Ball Break Layouts ............................................................................................................................................ 308-Ball Break Layouts ................................................................................................................................................................... 31

9-Ball Break Layouts ................................................................................................................................................................... 32

Reference ........................................................................................................................................................................................ 33Pool Associations ........................................................................................................................................................................ 34

Recommended Books .............. ............. ............ ............. ............. ............. .............. ............. ............. ............ ............. ............. ...... 34

Recommended DVDs .............. ............. ............ ............. ............. ............. .............. ............. ............. ............ ............. ............. ...... 34

Glossary of Pool/Billiard Terms ................................................................................................................................................... 35

Appendix ........................................................................................................................................................................................ 43Target ......................................................................................................................................................................................... 44


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6

Introduction

Thank you for purchasing Pool Fundamentals. This book is designed to help reduce the learning

curve of shooting pocket billiards. One of the major keys to learning how to shoot pool is practice,practice, and practice. All drills in this bookMUST be PRACTICED in order to master the control of

the cue ball regardless of how easy the drill may seem. Most of the top professionals practice 6 to 8hours a day when theyre not competing. In todays world, we dont have that amount of time to learn.

Therefore, what you are practicing and the order in which you practice drills will help reduce yourlearning curve. For example, if youre just beginning and you just learned how to make a cut shot, you

shouldnt move on to bank shots yet. Youll need to know why the cue call reacts the way it does beforemoving forward. Another suggestion to learning is to join a pool league and take these drills with you.

Practice them when youre not competing. You and your friends will be amazed at how quickly youlearn the proper techniques and discover the strategy of the game.

Many of these drills are based on actual game play while a few others are from Master Instructors and

noted as such. These drills are common shots that occur frequently while shooting pool. We encourageyou to design your own drills and add to this book. As your skills progress, youll discover the areas

where you need additional improvement. When playing a match, knowing your percentages on

particular shots will allow you to choose the shot thats gives you the highest percentage of winning.

Shows location on thecue ball to strike with the

cue for this drill.

Pool table

diagram with

drill layout.

Shot percentage (i.e. in the first

exercise above, they correctly

executed the shot 7 out of 15 times for

47% accuracy) The goal is 90% or

more accuracy consistently.

Name and

description of drill.

Put an X next to each

number attempt that is

executed correctly.

Mark the total completed and use the

shot percentage chart to figure your

percentage.


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7

The Basics


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8

As you progress with the game of pool, its inevitable that you will develop bad habits such as moving your body or picking

your head up. From time to time, review these fundamentals even if you feel you know them well. Doing so will help to

reduce to odds of going on a losing streak, and will remind you of the basics that you may have taken for granted.

The ChalkUsing chalk is a must for the game of pool. Using a good quality chalk, such as Master brand chalk, will help developconsistency in your game. The purpose of chalk is to create friction between the cue stick and the cue ball. Without the

friction, youll have little hope controlling the cue ball. Be sure to chalk your cue after every shot or two. Doing so will help

reduce the odds of miscues and other fatal errors. Have you ever had problems drawing the cue ball? One reason may bebecause of the lack of friction from your stick to the cue ball. Use fresh chalk (not one hollowed out from use).

Look at the tip of your cue stick, is it shinny and smooth? When your tip is shiny and smooth, the chalk has a hard time

sticking to it. Use a tip scuffer or shaper to lightly roughen the tip. Then gently brush the chalk onto the cue tip. Do not grindthe chalk on, or it will flatten the tip. Remember to chalk o ften and youll begin to see improvement in consistency in your

game.

The Open or V BridgeThe open bridge works well for power breaks and times that you cant use the closed bridge. Please study the image carefullyand note that for the most support and accuracy, the thumb should be up against the pointer finger with the wrist turned.

The High V Bridge - For shooting over ballsWhen shooting over another ball, use the high V bridge to get the proper elevation. Spread the fingers widely to make a

firm base. You will find that when you bring up the thumb, you get more security for the cue stroke.

You will find that you can raise the channel high for a follow shot, and drop the channel low for a draw shot.

The Basic or Closed BridgeIt is nearly impossible to shoot a good game of pool without a stable hand-bridge.

Notice the photograph to the right.

With the palm of your hand planted securely on the table, spread your fingers wide,

this provides a stable base. The cue slides securely through a channel made by the

thumb and forefinger. The cue should move smoothly through this channel withoutpulling against the skin with little to no tendency to waiver or get out of line.

Since precise placement of the cue tip on the cue ball is important, take time out to

master this base bridge. Since you will use it in 70-80% of your shots, practice it

frequently until it becomes natural. Practice it until your fingers channel the cue easily and naturally, without muscle strain.This bridge is one of the keys to precision shooting.

V Bridge Low V Bridge High V Bridge


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9

Use this bridge primarily when shooting a draw or power shot. This bridge works better in reducing the odds of lifting your

cue stick while following through on your shot. Keeping your cue level, flatten out your bridge hand to shoot a draw shot or

cup your hand to raise your point of contact for center and Follow.

The Rail BridgeWhen the cue ball is close to the rail, shoot between the first two fingers after folding back your thumb. Notice that the

forefinger and the thumb are making a channel to keep your stroke true and accurate.

When the cue ball is frozen to the cushion, use this modified rail bridge. Do not elevate the cue more than is necessary.

Using the Mechanical BridgeThe mechanical bridge is used when a shot is in an awkward position on the table, or simply too far

away. Learning to use the bridge properly is a valuable skill, and therefore, should be practiced like

any shot. The image to the right shows proper use of the mechanical bridge. Your arm should beparallel to the table, enabling the cue to move away from the chest as you make the shot. When

practicing with the bridge, vary distance to the cue ball, to determine your most accurate distance.Dont forget to practice using the mechanical bridge when shooting over other balls.

The GripA proper grip of the cue involves the use of your thumb and first three fingers. A light andrelaxed grip is key to a smooth and consistent stroke. A strong grip is one of the most common

mistakes. You can produce all the force you need with a relaxed finger grip and the correct

action in the arm. Please see diagram to the left.

Swing & StrokeYour swing should be level, and your arm, from your elbow down, should swing naturally back and forth like a pendulum.

Take a few practice strokes while checking your aim, then hit the cue ball.

StanceThe key to the stance is maintaining comfort and balance. Therefore, learn the correct position for

your body and feet, then maintain it. A good stance puts you in a balanced and comfortable

position, and centers your head over the cue in the line of your aim. Please see images below. This

permits your dominant arm to swing freely, to be extended straight. Your forward knee will be

bent more than your backward knee. Your body should remain still with the stroke.

Follow ThroughThink of hitting through the cue ball. The cue should continue in a straight line until it stops at the end of the stroke(preferably 6-8 or more beyond where the cue ball was). The position of your head and body should remain down as well.

A common mistake even in intermediate and advanced players is when the head, body, or cue come up after the stroke. This

action will often result in missing your shot. Remember, after the cue makes contact with the cue ball, your head, body, and

cue should continue in the same position.


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10

Practice Drills


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Practice Drills


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Drill 1: Follow ThroughIn Addition to your stance, following through on your shot is a critical component to a finishing stroke. After

your cue stick strikes the cue ball, the tip of your cue stick should pass 4-6 inches a head of were the cue ball was

before you made contact with it (position X). This is a key to most shots youll take in the game of pool.

To execute this drill, place the cue ball at the foot spot as shown. Next, place an object ball in line with the cue

ball one diamond higher. Mark a spot on the table 4-6 inches ahead of the cue ball. After you strike the cue ball,

the tip must reach the point you marked. Practice the drill several times until you are comfortable with it. Thenmove on to the next drill.

*Note: The layout of the table may not always allow your cue to extend 4-6 inches past the cue ball. If the cue ball and object ball are in close proximity to

one another or if youre shooting a finesse shot with very little speed you may only need to follow through 2 or 3 in ches passed the contact point with the cueball.

Completed: _____ % _____

1 ____ 2 ____ 3 ____ 4 ____ 5 ____ 6 ____ 7 ____ 8 ____

9 ____ 10 ____ 11 ____ 12 ____ 13 ____ 14 ____ 15 ____

Completed: _____ % _____

1 ____ 2 ____ 3 ____ 4 ____ 5 ____ 6 ____ 7 ____ 8 ____

9 ____ 10 ____ 11 ____ 12 ____ 13 ____ 14 ____ 15 ____

Completed: _____ % _____

1 ____ 2 ____ 3 ____ 4 ____ 5 ____ 6 ____ 7 ____ 8 ____

9 ____ 10 ____ 11 ____ 12 ____ 13 ____ 14 ____ 15 ____

Shot Percentages

1 of 15 = 6% 6 of 15 = 40% 11 of 15 = 73%

2 of 15 = 13% 7 of 15 = 47% 12 of 15 = 80%

3 of 15 = 20% 8 of 15 = 53% 13 of 15 = 87%

4 of 15 = 27% 9 of 15 = 60% 14 of 15 = 93%

5 of 15 = 33% 10 of 15 = 67% 15 of 15 = 100%

X

Draw

Center

Top


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Practice Drills


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Drill 2: Speed Control (Exercise A)For the purpose of this book its important to discuss speed of the cue ball. If we mention using a slow speed, that means the speed it

would take to have the cue ball travel one length of the table. When we say shoot a medium speed shot that would be two lengths of

the table. This is also known as a lag shot. If were requesting a hard speed, that will be three lengths of the table. Practice thesevarious speeds and record your results. While youre practicing your speed control, remember to practice your stance and follow

through as well. If youd like, you may also practice your aim by shooting at the diamond on the opposite site of the table and see if

the cue ball remains on the same rebound path.

Position 1: Completed: _____ % _____

1 ____ 2 ____ 3 ____ 4 ____ 5 ____ 6 ____ 7 ____ 8 ____

9 ____ 10 ____ 11 ____ 12 ____ 13 ____ 14 ____ 15 ____


1 ____ 2 ____ 3 ____ 4 ____ 5 ____ 6 ____ 7 ____ 8 ____

9 ____ 10 ____ 11 ____ 12 ____ 13 ____ 14 ____ 15 ____


1 ____ 2 ____ 3 ____ 4 ____ 5 ____ 6 ____ 7 ____ 8 ____

9 ____ 10 ____ 11 ____ 12 ____ 13 ____ 14 ____ 15 ____

Shot Percentages

1 of 15 = 6% 6 of 15 = 40% 11 of 15 = 73%

2 of 15 = 13% 7 of 15 = 47% 12 of 15 = 80%

3 of 15 = 20% 8 of 15 = 53% 13 of 15 = 87%

4 of 15 = 27% 9 of 15 = 60% 14 of 15 = 93%

5 of 15 = 33% 10 of 15 = 67% 15 of 15 = 100%

1 2 3

Slow

Shot

Medium

Shot

Hard

Shot


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Practice Drills


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Drill 2: Speed Control (Exercise B)As with many things in life there are always variations. These next few drills will help you to develop basic cue ball control and

muscle memory. Muscle memory is difficult to illustrate, so the best way to learn this is with repetitious practice. By having muscle

memory stored in your brain, youll be capable of recalling the proper speed needed for position when youre in a high pressure ga mesituation.

For this drill, use the target supplied with this book. Place the cue ball and target as shown in position 1. Stroke the cue ball using a

very slow speed and try to place the cue ball on the target. Once youre comfortable with that position, move the target further away

and do this drill again. Continue moving the target further away until you reach the end rail. Try to get 5 or more shots in beforereaching the bottom rail.

Mark a point for each time you land successfully in the center part of the target.


1 ____ 2 ____ 3 ____ 4 ____ 5 ____ 6 ____ 7 ____ 8 ____

9 ____ 10 ____ 11 ____ 12 ____ 13 ____ 14 ____ 15 ____


1 ____ 2 ____ 3 ____ 4 ____ 5 ____ 6 ____ 7 ____ 8 ____

9 ____ 10 ____ 11 ____ 12 ____ 13 ____ 14 ____ 15 ____


1 ____ 2 ____ 3 ____ 4 ____ 5 ____ 6 ____ 7 ____ 8 ____

9 ____ 10 ____ 11 ____ 12 ____ 13 ____ 14 ____ 15 ____

Shot Percentages

1 of 15 = 6% 6 of 15 = 40% 11 of 15 = 73%

2 of 15 = 13% 7 of 15 = 47% 12 of 15 = 80%

3 of 15 = 20% 8 of 15 = 53% 13 of 15 = 87%

4 of 15 = 27% 9 of 15 = 60% 14 of 15 = 93%

5 of 15 = 33% 10 of 15 = 67% 15 of 15 = 100%

3 2 1


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Practice Drills


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Drill 2: Speed Control (Exercise C)This drill is very similar to the last one you just accomplished. This time, place the target down table at position

#1. Strike the cue ball at a slow to medium speed so that it rebounds off the end rail then comes to rest on thetarget at position #1. When youre comfortable, relocate the target to position #2 and then position #3.

Mark a point for each time you land successfully in the red part of the target.


1 ____ 2 ____ 3 ____ 4 ____ 5 ____ 6 ____ 7 ____ 8 ____

9 ____ 10 ____ 11 ____ 12 ____ 13 ____ 14 ____ 15 ____


1 ____ 2 ____ 3 ____ 4 ____ 5 ____ 6 ____ 7 ____ 8 ____

9 ____ 10 ____ 11 ____ 12 ____ 13 ____ 14 ____ 15 ____


1 ____ 2 ____ 3 ____ 4 ____ 5 ____ 6 ____ 7 ____ 8 ____

9 ____ 10 ____ 11 ____ 12 ____ 13 ____ 14 ____ 15 ____

Shot Percentages

1 of 15 = 6% 6 of 15 = 40% 11 of 15 = 73%

2 of 15 = 13% 7 of 15 = 47% 12 of 15 = 80%

3 of 15 = 20% 8 of 15 = 53% 13 of 15 = 87%

4 of 15 = 27% 9 of 15 = 60% 14 of 15 = 93%

5 of 15 = 33% 10 of 15 = 67% 15 of 15 = 100%

1 2 3

End Rail


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Practice Drills


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Drill 2: Speed Control (Exercise D)This drill is a little trickier to master. The more power you put into a shot, the more likely your posture (head,

shoulder, grip, or body) will move incorrectly. Keep focused on holding still for these drills.

Place the target at position #1 and strike the cue ball with enough force to rebound off the end rail, back to thehead rail and come to rest on the target at position #1. Then move on to position #2 & #3.

Mark a point for each time you land successful in the red part of the target.


1 ____ 2 ____ 3 ____ 4 ____ 5 ____ 6 ____ 7 ____ 8 ____

9 ____ 10 ____ 11 ____ 12 ____ 13 ____ 14 ____ 15 ____


1 ____ 2 ____ 3 ____ 4 ____ 5 ____ 6 ____ 7 ____ 8 ____

9 ____ 10 ____ 11 ____ 12 ____ 13 ____ 14 ____ 15 ____


1 ____ 2 ____ 3 ____ 4 ____ 5 ____ 6 ____ 7 ____ 8 ____

9 ____ 10 ____ 11 ____ 12 ____ 13 ____ 14 ____ 15 ____

Shot Percentages

1 of 15 = 6% 6 of 15 = 40% 11 of 15 = 73%

2 of 15 = 13% 7 of 15 = 47% 12 of 15 = 80%

3 of 15 = 20% 8 of 15 = 53% 13 of 15 = 87%

4 of 15 = 27% 9 of 15 = 60% 14 of 15 = 93%

5 of 15 = 33% 10 of 15 = 67% 15 of 15 = 100%

1 2 3

End Rail

Head Rail


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Practice Drills


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Drill 3: Stop ShotThis is a stop shot drill. Sometimes its referred to as a stun shot. Practice this drill by shooting center on the cue

ball. Pocket the object ball and have the cue ball stop after contact. If the cue ball moves off to either side of theobject ball after contact, or rolls forward, then you will know one of the following occurred:

1. Your aim is off center, so practice aiming (see drill 14).2. You inadvertently added spin to the cue ballwhich changed the direction of the ball.3. Youre not shooting with enough speed, so the cue ball is not sliding at the point of contact.4. Youre inadvertently hitting the cue ball above center, instead of center (see diagram).

*In order for the cue ball to stop at the point of contact, it must be sliding across the felt. Strike the cue ball firmly and be sure tofollow through on your stroke. If the cue ball moves forward after making contact with the object ball, then you hit the cue ball too

softly.


1 ____ 2 ____ 3 ____ 4 ____ 5 ____ 6 ____ 7 ____ 8 ____

9 ____ 10 ____ 11 ____ 12 ____ 13 ____ 14 ____ 15 ____


1 ____ 2 ____ 3 ____ 4 ____ 5 ____ 6 ____ 7 ____ 8 ____

9 ____ 10 ____ 11 ____ 12 ____ 13 ____ 14 ____ 15 ____


1 ____ 2 ____ 3 ____ 4 ____ 5 ____ 6 ____ 7 ____ 8 ____

9 ____ 10 ____ 11 ____ 12 ____ 13 ____ 14 ____ 15 ____

Shot Percentages

1 of 15 = 6% 6 of 15 = 40% 11 of 15 = 73%

2 of 15 = 13% 7 of 15 = 47% 12 of 15 = 80%

3 of 15 = 20% 8 of 15 = 53% 13 of 15 = 87%

4 of 15 = 27% 9 of 15 = 60% 14 of 15 = 93%

5 of 15 = 33% 10 of 15 = 67% 15 of 15 = 100%

4

3

21


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Practice Drills


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Drill 4: Follow ShotFollow shots are usually considered the easiest shots in pool. To shoot a follow shot, find the horizontal and

vertical center lines of the cue ball. Then aim your cue tip above the horizontal line, on the vertical axis (seediagram). At roughly a medium speed, shoot the object ball into the pocket. If your shot is lined up in a straight

line and your aim is true, then the cue ball should follow the object ball into the pocket. If your aim is off a bit,the cue ball will diverge away from the pocket to either side. Practice this shot from various distances and

record your results. The object is to pocket both balls in the same shot. If you only pocket the object ball, do notcount the point.


1 ____ 2 ____ 3 ____ 4 ____ 5 ____ 6 ____ 7 ____ 8 ____

9 ____ 10 ____ 11 ____ 12 ____ 13 ____ 14 ____ 15 ____


1 ____ 2 ____ 3 ____ 4 ____ 5 ____ 6 ____ 7 ____ 8 ____

9 ____ 10 ____ 11 ____ 12 ____ 13 ____ 14 ____ 15 ____


1 ____ 2 ____ 3 ____ 4 ____ 5 ____ 6 ____ 7 ____ 8 ____

9 ____ 10 ____ 11 ____ 12 ____ 13 ____ 14 ____ 15 ____


1 ____ 2 ____ 3 ____ 4 ____ 5 ____ 6 ____ 7 ____ 8 ____

9 ____ 10 ____ 11 ____ 12 ____ 13 ____ 14 ____ 15 ____

Shot Percentages

1 of 15 = 6% 6 of 15 = 40% 11 of 15 = 73%

2 of 15 = 13% 7 of 15 = 47% 12 of 15 = 80%

3 of 15 = 20% 8 of 15 = 53% 13 of 15 = 87%

4 of 15 = 27% 9 of 15 = 60% 14 of 15 = 93%

5 of 15 = 33% 10 of 15 = 67% 15 of 15 = 100%

4

3

2

1


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Practice Drills


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Drill 5: Draw ShotDraw shots are fun to watch when executed properly. It is also a bit complicated to get the hang of. Set up an

object ball and the cue call as shown in the illustration. Strike the cue ball below the center line at the pointmarked in the diagram below. The distance you draw back will be determined by the speed you are striking the

cue ball. For the purpose of this drill, pocket the object ball into the side pocket and draw the cue ball straightback towards the opposite side without scratching. Keep the cue ball and object ball in a straight line but use

various distances. Chalk your cue tip after each shot. This will reduce the chance of a miscue.

Completed: _____ % _____

1 ____ 2 ____ 3 ____ 4 ____ 5 ____ 6 ____ 7 ____ 8 ____

9 ____ 10 ____ 11 ____ 12 ____ 13 ____ 14 ____ 15 ____

Completed: _____ % _____

1 ____ 2 ____ 3 ____ 4 ____ 5 ____ 6 ____ 7 ____ 8 ____

9 ____ 10 ____ 11 ____ 12 ____ 13 ____ 14 ____ 15 ____

Completed: _____ % _____

1 ____ 2 ____ 3 ____ 4 ____ 5 ____ 6 ____ 7 ____ 8 ____

9 ____ 10 ____ 11 ____ 12 ____ 13 ____ 14 ____ 15 ____

Shot Percentages

1 of 15 = 6% 6 of 15 = 40% 11 of 15 = 73%

2 of 15 = 13% 7 of 15 = 47% 12 of 15 = 80%

3 of 15 = 20% 8 of 15 = 53% 13 of 15 = 87%

4 of 15 = 27% 9 of 15 = 60% 14 of 15 = 93%

5 of 15 = 33% 10 of 15 = 67% 15 of 15 = 100%


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Practice Drills


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Drill 6: Stop, Follow, DrawYou should have already practiced the stop shot, draw and follow shot in the earlier drills, so now were going to combine them to

demonstrate how using the proper shot will allow you to leave yourself in good position for the next shot. Getting the right positioning

on your next shot will increase your likelihood of running the table and winning the match. Lay out the table as shown in the diagram.

First, use stop shot on the one ball. Stopping the cue ball after contact with the object ball requires a straight in shot and a center hit onthe cue ball. If the cue ball is at an angle to the object ball and pocket youll never stop it dead. The cue ball must be sliding at the

point of contact without any spin, therefore, speed plays a large factor on a stop shot.

For Top Spin hit the cue ball center but above the center horizontal center line. After contacting the object ball the cue ball will follow

the object ball. The distance it travels is determined by how hard you shoot the shot and how high you hit it.

Drawing the cue ball is the exact opposite of top spin. For this shot I recommend you chalk your cue tip after every shot. This willreduce the possibility of a miscue.

Completed: _____ % _____

1 ____ 2 ____ 3 ____ 4 ____ 5 ____ 6 ____ 7 ____ 8 ____

9 ____ 10 ____ 11 ____ 12 ____ 13 ____ 14 ____ 15 ____

Completed: _____ % _____

1 ____ 2 ____ 3 ____ 4 ____ 5 ____ 6 ____ 7 ____ 8 ____

9 ____ 10 ____ 11 ____ 12 ____ 13 ____ 14 ____ 15 ____

Completed: _____ % _____

1 ____ 2 ____ 3 ____ 4 ____ 5 ____ 6 ____ 7 ____ 8 ____

9 ____ 10 ____ 11 ____ 12 ____ 13 ____ 14 ____ 15 ____

Shot Percentages

1 of 15 = 6% 6 of 15 = 40% 11 of 15 = 73%

2 of 15 = 13% 7 of 15 = 47% 12 of 15 = 80%

3 of 15 = 20% 8 of 15 = 53% 13 of 15 = 87%

4 of 15 = 27% 9 of 15 = 60% 14 of 15 = 93%

5 of 15 = 33% 10 of 15 = 67% 15 of 15 = 100%

Stop Top

Draw

Follow

Stop

Draw


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Practice Drills


20

Drill 7: Tangent Lines Stop ShotDo you remember geometry class? The tangent line is the perpendicular line (90 degree angle) to the point of contact between the cue ball and object

ball. This is a major key to playing pool because its the basis for position play. Youll need to know these simple formulas for playing cue ballposition, to avoid scratches and for breaking up (or avoiding) a cluster of balls.

You should already know by know how to shoot a stop shot. For the main purpose of this drill, youll need to have the stop s hot mastered. Find thepoint of contact between the object ball and the cue ball. Draw an imaginary line from the cue ball to the contact point of the object ball. Then drawa second line perpendicular to the first at the point of contact. This is the tangent line. The only way to have the cue ball to travel along this line is toshoot a stop shot. The cue ball must be sliding to the point of contact. If the cue ball develops a natural forward roll, i t will diverge slightly forward

off the tangent line. Practice this drill using a center ball hit on the cue ball to have it traveling along the same line after every shot. Try this samedrill but from longer distances. If you continue to use the same speed as in position 1, you may notice that the cue ball moves forward from thetangent line after contact. This is because the cue ball has picked up some forward roll. Remember that the cue ball must be sliding to the point ofcontact with the object ball in order for it to remain on the tangent line. Therefore, the greater the distance between the cue ball and object ball, theharder the cue ball must be hit.

Completed: _____ % _____

1 ____ 2 ____ 3 ____ 4 ____ 5 ____ 6 ____ 7 ____ 8 ____

9 ____ 10 ____ 11 ____ 12 ____ 13 ____ 14 ____ 15 ____

Completed: _____ % _____

1 ____ 2 ____ 3 ____ 4 ____ 5 ____ 6 ____ 7 ____ 8 ____

9 ____ 10 ____ 11 ____ 12 ____ 13 ____ 14 ____ 15 ____

Completed: _____ % _____

1 ____ 2 ____ 3 ____ 4 ____ 5 ____ 6 ____ 7 ____ 8 ____

9 ____ 10 ____ 11 ____ 12 ____ 13 ____ 14 ____ 15 ____

Shot Percentages

1 of 15 = 6% 6 of 15 = 40% 11 of 15 = 73%

2 of 15 = 13% 7 of 15 = 47% 12 of 15 = 80%

3 of 15 = 20% 8 of 15 = 53% 13 of 15 = 87%

4 of 15 = 27% 9 of 15 = 60% 14 of 15 = 93%

5 of 15 = 33% 10 of 15 = 67% 15 of 15 = 100%

Follow

Stop

Draw

Stop

Stop

Stop


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Practice Drills


21

Drill 8: Tangent Lines Follow Shot Speed ControlNow youll learn how follow at an angle works. Speed plays a key roll in this segment. Find your point of

contact as you did with the previous drill. Shoot the shot using follow at a slow speed. The cue ball will stay onthe tangent line for a brief moment then it will bend forward from the line. Run through a rack of ball using a

slow speed.

Then shoot the same shot using a medium speed. You may notice that the cue ball remains on the tangent line abit longer than it does at a slow speed. This is an important thing to remember when you want to use this shot.

Practice at a medium speed for a rack of balls the try a hard speed.

Completed: _____ % _____

1 ____ 2 ____ 3 ____ 4 ____ 5 ____ 6 ____ 7 ____ 8 ____

9 ____ 10 ____ 11 ____ 12 ____ 13 ____ 14 ____ 15 ____

Completed: _____ % _____

1 ____ 2 ____ 3 ____ 4 ____ 5 ____ 6 ____ 7 ____ 8 ____

9 ____ 10 ____ 11 ____ 12 ____ 13 ____ 14 ____ 15 ____

Completed: _____ % _____

1 ____ 2 ____ 3 ____ 4 ____ 5 ____ 6 ____ 7 ____ 8 ____

9 ____ 10 ____ 11 ____ 12 ____ 13 ____ 14 ____ 15 ____

Shot Percentages

1 of 15 = 6% 6 of 15 = 40% 11 of 15 = 73%

2 of 15 = 13% 7 of 15 = 47% 12 of 15 = 80%

3 of 15 = 20% 8 of 15 = 53% 13 of 15 = 87%

4 of 15 = 27% 9 of 15 = 60% 14 of 15 = 93%

5 of 15 = 33% 10 of 15 = 67% 15 of 15 = 100%

Follow

Stop

Stop

Stop


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Practice Drills


23

Drill 9B: Tangent Lines Stop, Follow, DrawLearning how to hit the cue ball to make your shot and position yourself for the next shot will go a long way to

your advancement in pool. This drill is designed to show you how stop, follow and draw affects the direction ofthe cue ball. Practice each one of these drills and notice the path the cue ball takes after hitting it with stop,

follow and draw. The blue dotted line is the 90 degree tangent line and the direction the cue ball should take ifhit with stop.

Completed: _____ % _____

1 ____ 2 ____ 3 ____ 4 ____ 5 ____ 6 ____ 7 ____ 8 ____

9 ____ 10 ____ 11 ____ 12 ____ 13 ____ 14 ____ 15 ____

Completed: _____ % _____

1 ____ 2 ____ 3 ____ 4 ____ 5 ____ 6 ____ 7 ____ 8 ____

9 ____ 10 ____ 11 ____ 12 ____ 13 ____ 14 ____ 15 ____

Completed: _____ % _____

1 ____ 2 ____ 3 ____ 4 ____ 5 ____ 6 ____ 7 ____ 8 ____

9 ____ 10 ____ 11 ____ 12 ____ 13 ____ 14 ____ 15 ____

Shot Percentages

1 of 15 = 6% 6 of 15 = 40% 11 of 15 = 73%

2 of 15 = 13% 7 of 15 = 47% 12 of 15 = 80%

3 of 15 = 20% 8 of 15 = 53% 13 of 15 = 87%

4 of 15 = 27% 9 of 15 = 60% 14 of 15 = 93%

5 of 15 = 33% 10 of 15 = 67% 15 of 15 = 100%

Stop

Draw

Stop

FollowDraw

Follow

Stop

DrawFollow

Follow

Stop

Draw

Stop


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Practice Drills


24

Drill 10: Cut ShotThe object here is to cut the one ball into the top corner pocket using Follow while positioning yourself for another ball.

First, shoot the object ball into the top corner to play position for the two ball. The cue ball should land at position (A).

Replace the balls, and then go for position on the three ball. Continue this drill until you are in position (F) for play on the

seven ball.

A variation on this drill is to roll a dice and go for position on the numbered ball shown on the dice.

*This drill can be found on How To Play Pool Right with Jerry Briesath video produced by the BCA. Jerry Briesath is a BCA Master Instructor. We highlyrecommend the video for beginning players as he teaches you about cue grip, stance, stroke, and basic English.

Completed: _____ % _____

1 ____ 2 ____ 3 ____ 4 ____ 5 ____ 6 ____ 7 ____ 8 ____

9 ____ 10 ____ 11 ____ 12 ____ 13 ____ 14 ____ 15 ____

Completed: _____ % _____

1 ____ 2 ____ 3 ____ 4 ____ 5 ____ 6 ____ 7 ____ 8 ____

9 ____ 10 ____ 11 ____ 12 ____ 13 ____ 14 ____ 15 ____

Completed: _____ % _____

1 ____ 2 ____ 3 ____ 4 ____ 5 ____ 6 ____ 7 ____ 8 ____

9 ____ 10 ____ 11 ____ 12 ____ 13 ____ 14 ____ 15 ____

Shot Percentages

1 of 15 = 6% 6 of 15 = 40% 11 of 15 = 73%

2 of 15 = 13% 7 of 15 = 47% 12 of 15 = 80%

3 of 15 = 20% 8 of 15 = 53% 13 of 15 = 87%

4 of 15 = 27% 9 of 15 = 60% 14 of 15 = 93%

5 of 15 = 33% 10 of 15 = 67% 15 of 15 = 100%

A

B

C

D

E

F


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Practice Drills


26

Drill 12: Rail ShotSet up an object ball at the position indicated. Position the cue ball in one of the four locations indicated. Stroke

the cue ball using follow into the opposite corner pocket. Practice each shot 15 times and mark 1 point for eachtime pocketed.


1 ____ 2 ____ 3 ____ 4 ____ 5 ____ 6 ____ 7 ____ 8 ____

9 ____ 10 ____ 11 ____ 12 ____ 13 ____ 14 ____ 15 ____


1 ____ 2 ____ 3 ____ 4 ____ 5 ____ 6 ____ 7 ____ 8 ____

9 ____ 10 ____ 11 ____ 12 ____ 13 ____ 14 ____ 15 ____


1 ____ 2 ____ 3 ____ 4 ____ 5 ____ 6 ____ 7 ____ 8 ____

9 ____ 10 ____ 11 ____ 12 ____ 13 ____ 14 ____ 15 ____


1 ____ 2 ____ 3 ____ 4 ____ 5 ____ 6 ____ 7 ____ 8 ____

9 ____ 10 ____ 11 ____ 12 ____ 13 ____ 14 ____ 15 ____

Shot Percentages

1 of 15 = 6% 6 of 15 = 40% 11 of 15 = 73%

2 of 15 = 13% 7 of 15 = 47% 12 of 15 = 80%

3 of 15 = 20% 8 of 15 = 53% 13 of 15 = 87%

4 of 15 = 27% 9 of 15 = 60% 14 of 15 = 93%

5 of 15 = 33% 10 of 15 = 67% 15 of 15 = 100%

4

3

2

1


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Practice Drills


27

Drill 13: Cut ShotSet up an object ball on the foot spot. Position the cue ball in one of the six locations indicated. Stroke the cue

ball using Follow into the opposite corner pocket. Practice each shot 15 times and mark 1 point for each timepocketed.


1 ____ 2 ____ 3 ____ 4 ____ 5 ____ 6 ____ 7 ____ 8 ____

9 ____ 10 ____ 11 ____ 12 ____ 13 ____ 14 ____ 15 ____


1 ____ 2 ____ 3 ____ 4 ____ 5 ____ 6 ____ 7 ____ 8 ____

9 ____ 10 ____ 11 ____ 12 ____ 13 ____ 14 ____ 15 ____


1 ____ 2 ____ 3 ____ 4 ____ 5 ____ 6 ____ 7 ____ 8 ____

9 ____ 10 ____ 11 ____ 12 ____ 13 ____ 14 ____ 15 ____


1 ____ 2 ____ 3 ____ 4 ____ 5 ____ 6 ____ 7 ____ 8 ____

9 ____ 10 ____ 11 ____ 12 ____ 13 ____ 14 ____ 15 ____

Shot Percentages

1 of 15 = 6% 6 of 15 = 40% 11 of 15 = 73%

2 of 15 = 13% 7 of 15 = 47% 12 of 15 = 80%

3 of 15 = 20% 8 of 15 = 53% 13 of 15 = 87%

4 of 15 = 27% 9 of 15 = 60% 14 of 15 = 93%

5 of 15 = 33% 10 of 15 = 67% 15 of 15 = 100%

1

2

3 4

5 6

Pocket for

positions 2,

4, 6

Pocket for

positions 1,

3, 5


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Drill 14: AimingSet the object ball in the center of the table. Position the cue ball in a straight line with the corner pocket. Shoot

the object ball into the corner pocket at the other end of the table. Move the cue ball further away from theobject ball after each rack keeping a straight line. Stroke the cue ball center using stop action. This will help you

determine if youre hitting the cue ball square. If youre missing the pocket and hitting the bottom rail, youreaiming slightly to the left. Or if youre hitting the side rail first, youre aiming slightly right. Dont forget, this is

a stop shot aiming drill. The cue ball should stop after contacting the object ball. If the cue ball moves forwardor off to the side after contacting the object ball, do not mark a point, even if you pocket the object ball. This is

a good visual drill as you can easily see any mistakes as they happen.


1 ____ 2 ____ 3 ____ 4 ____ 5 ____ 6 ____ 7 ____ 8 ____

9 ____ 10 ____ 11 ____ 12 ____ 13 ____ 14 ____ 15 ____


1 ____ 2 ____ 3 ____ 4 ____ 5 ____ 6 ____ 7 ____ 8 ____

9 ____ 10 ____ 11 ____ 12 ____ 13 ____ 14 ____ 15 ____


1 ____ 2 ____ 3 ____ 4 ____ 5 ____ 6 ____ 7 ____ 8 ____

9 ____ 10 ____ 11 ____ 12 ____ 13 ____ 14 ____ 15 ____


1 ____ 2 ____ 3 ____ 4 ____ 5 ____ 6 ____ 7 ____ 8 ____

9 ____ 10 ____ 11 ____ 12 ____ 13 ____ 14 ____ 15 ____

Shot Percentages

1 of 15 = 6% 6 of 15 = 40% 11 of 15 = 73%

2 of 15 = 13% 7 of 15 = 47% 12 of 15 = 80%

3 of 15 = 20% 8 of 15 = 53% 13 of 15 = 87%

4 of 15 = 27% 9 of 15 = 60% 14 of 15 = 93%

5 of 15 = 33% 10 of 15 = 67% 15 of 15 = 100%

1

2

3

4


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Drill 15: Eight Ball Break (The Power Break)Games and matches are won and lost on the break, therefore, the break is one of the most important shots in the game. A good break not only allows

you to take the next shot (because you pocketed a ball), but also spreads the balls out and sets you up for easier shots and longer runs. The break,therefore, is an important shot that deserves practice time. Use these guidelines:

Rack for Power: A good rack is a tight rack, meaning that all balls are tightly touching each other. It should also be straight, with the center ballslined up down the center of the table.

Chalk-Up: Its important to chalk-up before breaking for a solid hit on the cue ball.Check Your Stance: To achieve more power in your break, stand with your feet spread a little farther apart than a normal swing. Place more weight

on your front leg as you rock your body forward. Its more important to hit the rack solidly that to hit it with great velocity.

Break from each of the three positions below, and evaluate the table. After each break, write down how many balls you pocketed, how many stoppedon the head (breaking) side of the table, and how many clusters of balls. Determine what position you break best from, and work on improving yourbreaks from that position.


1 ____ 2 ____ 3 ____ 4 ____ 5 ____ 6 ____ 7 ____ 8 ____

9 ____ 10 ____ 11 ____ 12 ____ 13 ____ 14 ____ 15 ____


1 ____ 2 ____ 3 ____ 4 ____ 5 ____ 6 ____ 7 ____ 8 ____

9 ____ 10 ____ 11 ____ 12 ____ 13 ____ 14 ____ 15 ____


1 ____ 2 ____ 3 ____ 4 ____ 5 ____ 6 ____ 7 ____ 8 ____

9 ____ 10 ____ 11 ____ 12 ____ 13 ____ 14 ____ 15 ____

Shot Percentages

1 of 15 = 6% 6 of 15 = 40% 11 of 15 = 73%

2 of 15 = 13% 7 of 15 = 47% 12 of 15 = 80%

3 of 15 = 20% 8 of 15 = 53% 13 of 15 = 87%

4 of 15 = 27% 9 of 15 = 60% 14 of 15 = 93%

5 of 15 = 33% 10 of 15 = 67% 15 of 15 = 100%

2 3


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8-Ball Break LayoutsAfter breaking, mark the results before your next shot.

Where did you break from:

_______________ _____________

Balls made in:

_______________ _____________

Balls on the head side to table:

_______________ _____________

Scratches:

_______________ _____________

Clusters:

_______________ _____________

Solids or Stripes?

_______________ _____________

Draw how would you run the table?


_______________ _____________

Balls made in:

_______________ _____________


_______________ _____________

Scratches:

_______________ _____________

Clusters:

_______________ _____________

Solids or Stripes?

_______________ _____________



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9-Ball Break LayoutsAfter breaking, mark the results before your next shot.


_______________ _____________

Balls made in:

_______________ _____________


_______________ _____________

Scratches:

_______________ _____________

Clusters:

_______________ _____________

Solids or Stripes?

_______________ _____________



_______________ _____________

Balls made in:

_______________ _____________


_______________ _____________

Scratches:

_______________ _____________

Clusters:

_______________ _____________

Solids or Stripes?

_______________ _____________



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Reference


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Glossary of Pool/Billiard Terms

For further terms, pleaseclick here.

BALL IN HAND. See cue ball in hand.

BANK SHOT. A shot in which the object ball is driven to one or more cushions before it is pocketed;incidental contact as a ball moves along and adjacent to a cushion does not qualify as a cushion orbank. It is not an obvious shot and must be called in games requiring called shots. (See kick shot)

BLIND DRAW. A method used to determine pairings or bracketing of players in tournaments thatassures totally random placement or pairing of contestants.

BREAK. See open breakand opening break shot.

BREAKING VIOLATION. A violation of special rules which apply only to the opening breakshot ofcertain games. Unless specified in individual game rules, a breaking violation is not a foul.

BRIDGE. The hand configuration that holds and guides the shaft-end of the cue during play. (Seemechanical bridge)

BUTT OF CUE. The larger end of a cue, opposite the tip. On a two-piece cue, the butt extends up tothe joint.

CALL SHOT. Requirement that a player designate, in advance of each shot, the ball to be made andthe pocket into which it will be made. In calling the shot, it is NEVER necessary to indicate detailssuch as the number of cushions, banks, kisses, caroms, etc. The rules of "Bank Pool" are anexception.

CALLED BALL. The ball the player has designated to be pocketed on a shot.

CALLED POCKET. The pocket which a player has designated a ball to be shot.

CAROM. To bounce off or glance off an object ball or cushion; a shot in which the cue ball bouncesoff one ball into another is termed a carom.

CAROM, SCORING. Contact by the cue ball with object balls, the bottle or cushions in such a waythat a legal score is made, according to specific game rules.

CENTER SPOT. The exact center point of a table's playing surface.

CHALK. A dry, slightly abrasive substance that is applied to the cue tip to help assure a non-slipcontact between the cue tip and the cue ball.

COMBINATION. Shot in which the cue ball first strikes a ball other than the one to be pocketed, withthe ball initially contacted in turn striking one or more other balls in an effort to score.

COMBINATION ON. Two or more balls positioned in such a way that a ball can be driven into acalled pocket with a combination shot; often called a "dead combo" or an "on combo."
http://pooldrills.com/glossaryhttp://pooldrills.com/glossaryhttp://pooldrills.com/glossaryhttp://pooldrills.com/glossary


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CONTACT POINT. The precise point of contact between the cue ball and the object ball when thecue ball strikes the object ball.

CORNER-HOOKED. (Pocket games, Snooker) When the corner of a pocket prevents shooting thecue ball in a straight path directly to an object ball, the cue ball is corner-hooked; same as angled.

COUNT. A score; a successful shot.

COUNT, THE. The running score at any point during a player's inning in games where numerouspoints are scored successively.

CROSS CORNER. Term used to describe a bank shotthat will rebound from a cushion and into acorner pocket.

CROSS SIDE. Term used to describe a bank shotthat will rebound from a cushion and into a sidepocket.

CRUTCH. Slang term for the mechanical bridge.

CUE. Tapered device, usually wooden, used to strike the cue ball to execute carom or pocket billiardshots. (Also called cue stick)

CUE BALL. The white, unnumbered ball that is always struck by the cue during play.

CUE BALL IN HAND. Cue ball may be put into play anywhere on the playing surface.

CUE BALL IN HAND BEHIND THE HEAD STRING. Cue ball may be put into play anywherebetween the head string and the cushion on the head end of the table not in contact with an objectball.

CUE TIP. A piece of specially processed leather or other fibrous or pliable material attached to theshaft end of the cue that contacts the cue ball when a shot is executed.

CUSHION. The cloth-covered rubber which borders the inside of the rails on carom and pocketbilliard tables; together the cushions form the outer perimeter of the basic playing surface.

CUT SHOT. A shot in which the cue ball contacts the object ball to one side or the other of fullcenter, thus driving it in a direction other than that of the initial cue ball path.

DEAD BALL. A cue ball stroked in such a manner that virtually all of the speed and/or spin of thecue ball is transferred to the object ball, the cue ball retaining very little or none after contact.

DEAD BALL SHOT. A shot in which a dead ball stroke is employed; often called a kill shot, becauseof the relative lack of cue ball motion after contact with the object ball.

DEAD COMBINATION. See combination on.


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DIAMONDS. Inlays or markings on the table rails that are used as reference or target points. Thediamonds are essential for the utilization of numerous mathematical systems employed by carom andpocket games players.

DRAW SHOT. A shot in which the cue ball is struck below center, and the resulting back spin causesthe cue ball to return towards the player after full contact with an object ball.

DROP POCKETS. Type of pockets with no automatic return of the balls to the foot end of the table;balls must be removed manually.

DOUBLE ELIMINATION. A tournament format in which a player is not eliminated until he hassustained two match losses.

DOUBLE HIT. A shot on which the cue ball is struck twice by the cue tip on the same stroke.

DOUBLE ROUND ROBIN. A tournament format in which each contestant in a field plays each of theother players twice.

ENGLISH. Side spin applied to the cue ball by striking it off center; used to alter the natural roll of thecue ball and/or the object ball.

FEATHER SHOT. A shot in which the cue ball barely touches or grazes the object ball; an extremelythin cut.

FERRULE. A piece of protective material (usually plastic, horn or metal) at the end of the cue shaft,onto which the cue tip is attached.

FOLLOW SHOT. A shot in which the cue ball is struck above center and the resulting forward spincauses the cue ball to roll forward after contact with an object ball.

FOLLOW-THROUGH. The movement of the cue after contact with the cue ball through the areapreviously occupied by the cue ball.

FOOT OF TABLE. The end of a carom or pocket billiard table at which the balls are racked orpositioned at the start of a game.

FOOT SPOT. The point on the foot end of the table where imaginary lines drawn between the centerdiamonds of the short rails and the second diamonds of the long rails intersect.

FOOT STRING. A line on the foot end of the table between the second diamonds of the long rails,passing through the foot spot. The foot string is never drawn on the table, and has no use in play.

FORCE. The power applied on the stroke to the cue ball, which may result in distortion and alteringof natural angles and action of the ball.

FORCE DRAW. A shot with extreme follow, usually directly at and then "through" an object ball.

FORCE FOLLOW. A follow shot with extreme overspin applied to the cue ball, with the termgenerally used in reference to shots in which the cue ball is shot directly at and then "through" an


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object ball, with a pronounced hesitation or stop before the overspin propels the cue ball forward inthe general direction of the stroke.

FOUL. An infraction of the rules of play, as defined in either the general or the specific game rules.(Not all rule infractions are fouls.) Fouls result in a penalty, also dependent on specific game rules.

FOUL STROKE. A stroke on which a foul takes place.

FREE BREAK. An opening break shot in which a wide spread of the object balls may be achievedwithout penalty or risk. Free breaks are detailed in individual games rules.

FROZEN. A ball touching another ball or cushion.

FULL BALL. Contact of the cue ball with an object ball at a contact point on a line bisecting thecenters of the cue ball and object ball.

GAME. The course of play that starts when the referee has finished racking the balls, and ends at theconclusion of a legal shot which pockets the last required ball. In 14.1 continuous, a game lastsseveral racks.

GAME BALL. The ball which, if pocketed legally, would produce victory in a game.

GRIP. The manner in which the butt of the cue is held in the hand.

GULLY TABLE. A table with pockets and a return system that delivers the balls as they arepocketed to a collection bin on the foot end of the table.

HANDICAPPING. Modifications in the scoring and/or rules of games to enable players of differingabilities to compete on more even terms.

HEAD OF TABLE. The end of a carom or pocket billiard table from which the opening break isperformed; the end normally marked with the manufacturer's nameplate.

HEAD SPOT. The point on the head of the table where imaginary lines drawn between the centerdiamonds of the short rails and the second diamonds of the long rails intersect.

HEAD STRING. A line on the head end of the table between the second diamonds of the long rails,passing through the head spot.

HOLD. Englishwhich stops the cue ball from continuing the course of natural roll it would take afterhaving been driven in a certain direction.

INNING. A turn at the table by a player, and which may last for several racks in some pocket games.

IN HAND. See cue ball in hand.

IN HAND BEHIND THE HEAD STRING. See cue ball in hand behind the head string.


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JAW. The slanted part of the cushion that is cut at an angle to form the opening from the bed of thetable into the pocket.

JAWED BALL. Generally refers to a ball that fails to drop because it bounces back and forth againstthe jaws of a pocket.

JOINT. On two-piece cues, the screw-and-thread device, approximately midway in the cue, thatpermits it to be broken down into two separate sections.

JUMP SHOT. A shot in which the cue ball or object ball is caused to rise off the bed of the table.

JUMPED BALL. A ball that has left and remained off the playing surface as the result of a stroke; aball that is stroked in a manner which causes it to jump over another ball.

KEY BALL. (14.1 Continuous) The 14th ball of each rack; called the key ball because it is so criticalin obtaining position for the all important first (or break) shot of each reracking of the balls.

KICK SHOT. A shot in which the cue ball banks off a cushion(s) prior to making contact with anobject ball or scoring.

KILL SHOT. See dead ball shot.

KISS. Contact between balls. (See kiss shot)

KISS SHOT. A shot in which more than one contact with object balls is made by the cue ball; forexample, the cue ball might kiss from one object ball into another to score the latter ball. Shots inwhich object balls carom off one or more other object balls to be pocketed. (Also called carom shots)

KISS-OUT. Accidental contact between balls that causes a shot to fail.

KITCHEN. A slang term used to describe the area of the table between the head string and thecushion on the head end of the table. (Also called the area above the head string)

LAG FOR BREAK. Procedure used to determine starting player of game. Each player shoots a ballfrom behind the head string to the foot cushion, attempting to return the ball as closely as possible tothe head cushion.

LEAVE. The position of the balls after a player's shot.

LONG. Usually refers to a ball which, due to english and speed, travels a path with wider angles thanthose that are standard for such a ball if struck with natural englishand moderate speed.

LONG STRING. A line drawn from the center of the foot cushion to the foot spot (and beyond ifnecessary) on which balls are spotted.

LOT. Procedures used, not involving billiard skills, to determine starting player or order of play.Common methods used are flipping coins, drawing straws, drawing cards, or drawing peas or pills.


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RACK. The triangular equipment used for gathering the balls into the formation required by the gamebeing played.

RAILS. The top surface of the table, not covered by cloth, from which the cushions protrude towardthe playing surface. The head and foot rails are the short rails on those ends of the table; the rightand left rails are the long rails, dictated by standing at the head end of the table and facing the footend.

REVERSE ENGLISH. Sidespin applied to the cue ball, that favors the opposite direction of thenatural cue ball path - i.e. inside english.

ROUND ROBIN. A tournament format in which each contestant plays each of the other players once.

RUNNING ENGLISH. Sidespin applied to the cue ball which causes it to rebound from an object ballor a cushion at a narrower angle and at a faster speed than it would if struck at the same speed anddirection without english.

RUN. The total of consecutive scores, points or counts made by a player in one inning. The term isalso used to indicate the total number of full short-rack games won without a missed shot in a matchor tournament.

SAFETY. Defensive positioning of the balls so as to minimize the opponent's chances to score. Thenature and rules concerning safety play are decidedly different in specific games. Player's inning endsafter a safety play.

SCRATCH. The cue ball is going into a pocket on a stroke.

SET. Pre-determined number of games necessary to win a match.

SHAFT. The thinner part of a cue, on which the cue tip is attached. On a two-piece cue, the shaftextends from the cue tip to the joint.

SHOT. An action that begins at the instant the cue tip contacts the cue ball, and ends when all balls inplay stop rolling and spinning.

SHOT CLOCK. Any timing device used to gauge the time limit in which a player is allowed to play ashot. The timing device must have at least the functions of a stop watch: reset to zero, start, and stop.A simple wrist watch without timing functions is not sufficient.

SHORT. Usually refers to a ball which, due to englishand stroke, travels a path with narrower angles

than those for a ball struck without english.

SHORT-RACK. Games which utilize fewer than 15 countable object balls.

SINGLE ELIMINATION. A tournament format in which a single loss eliminates a player from thecompetition.

SPOT. The thin, circular piece of cloth or paper glued onto the cloth to indicate the spot locality (i.e..,head spot, center spot, foot spot); also an expression to describe a handicap.


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SPOT SHOT. Player shoots a ball on the foot spot with the cue ball in hand behind the head string.

SPOTTING BALLS. Replacing balls to the table in positions as dictated by specific game rules.

STANCE. The position of the body during shooting.

STOP SHOT. A shot in which the cue ball stops immediately upon striking the object ball.

STROKE. The movement of the cue as a shot is executed.

SUCCESSIVE FOULS. Fouls made on consecutive strokes by the same player, also calledconsecutive fouls.

THROW SHOT. 1. A shot in which english alters the path of the object ball.2. A combination shot of frozen or near frozen object balls in which to rubbing of the first ball acrossthe second ball pulls the shot away from the line joining the centers of the two balls.

TRIANGLE. The triangular device used to place the balls in position for the start of most games.


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Pool Fundamentals

When a good team struggles, they always go back to the basics, and its the same in pool.

Whether, youre new to pool, or have been playing for years, learning the basics and

reviewing the basics periodically, will be a key to your success. These 15 drills will helpyou with the fundamentals, and give you the foundation to build your mastery of pool. This

book includes detailed diagrams along with a worksheet to record your results. The

following drills are Included:

Follow-Through

Speed Control

Stop Shot

Follow (Top Spin) Shot

Draw Shot

Tangent LinesCut Shot

Aiming

8-Ball Break

Documents

Pool Fundamentals