Playing pool can help you improve your game. Proper shooting form is essential if you want to be a consistent player. This includes how you hold your cue ball, what you do with it, and how you stance. Improper form can lead to poor balance, missed shots, or even no shots at all.
Rules
There are several rules to pool. The foul rule is just one. A foul twice can result in a player losing his turn. Another rule is that a player can't pocket a ball. The push-out is the last rule that allows a player to place the cueball anywhere on the table and shoot it.
Equipment
To play pool, you will need some basic equipment. A pool cue, table and set of pool balls are the essential pieces. Each ball can have a different size or colour. Cue sticks come in many lengths and can be purchased separately. For novice players, a cue tip with a soft or medium tip works best.
Etiquette
You will have a blast playing pool if you follow the proper rules. The game can get pretty heated and emotions can run high, so remember to be cool when playing pool. Make sure you don't spill your drink onto the table. This is the ultimate party foul.
Draw shot
The draw shot is a popular technique for hitting an object ball. The draw shot allows for a lot more flexibility in position play as players can alter the angle at the object ball's travel. This shot also allows players to apply sidespin, which transfers reverse spin to the object ball.
English on the cueball
The fundamental stroke of pool is to put English on the cueball. This causes the cueball to travel in the opposite direction from where the player is trying it. A right English will have the ball move left, while an inside English will have it go right. Similarly, a high English will send the ball forward. English allows the cue ball to travel in a straight line. But English allows the ball's trajectory to be altered by the player. This is called "deflection" in the United States.
Racking up for 8 ball pool
Racking is essential for 8 ball pool. This helps you organize the balls so that they are ready for your first shot, or a break. This shot will allow you to spread out the balls, but still keep one in the centre of the table. The head string of your table should be aligned with the front ball of your rack, while the middle of the table should be aligned with the back ball of the rack. Mark the position of front ball with the middle diamond on either side.
Using a mechanical pool bridge
A bridge can be very helpful when you are playing pool. It can make difficult shots more manageable. It can also be more convenient than standing on your toes.