Many players focus only on pocketing one ball while forgetting about all the others.
The most important skill in pool is learning how to control the cue ball.
This allows you to position it exactly where you want for your next shot.
You can control it by combining spin with the right speed.
These shots require plenty of practice because sometimes you’ll hit the cue ball too softly or too hard. It also depends on the type of cloth and table you’re playing on.
Some cloths play faster, while others are slower depending on their quality.
If you’re playing at a pool hall or club you’re not familiar with, I recommend hitting the cue ball against the rail several times to get a feel for the table speed.
After about ten shots, you’ll usually have figured it out.
Learning to control the cue ball doesn’t require a lot of theory.
It requires practice. These drills will help you develop your game to a much higher level.
Cue Ball Control Drill
In this rotation drill, you must pocket the balls in numerical order.
Start with the 1-ball, leaving the cue ball in good position for the 2-ball, then for the 3-ball.
If you miss, start over.
Practice this drill three times a week.
Cue Ball Control Drill
In this second drill, pocket the balls in numerical order first, then repeat the exercise with no specific order.
The goal is to complete the drill without missing.
If you miss, start again.
Practice it three times a week, and you’ll soon notice your game improving.
Intermediate Stroke Drill
Pocket all the balls in any order, but always leave the cue ball in position for the next shot.
You shouldn’t miss.
If you do, start over.
Center Rectangle Drill
In this drill, pocket all the balls without missing, in any order.
The cue ball must stay inside the center rectangle.
Cross Drill
Pocket all the balls without missing or contacting any other balls.
There is no specific order.
Circle Drill
Pocket all the balls without missing or touching any other balls.
There is no specific order.
The cue ball must remain inside the circle.
Z Drill (Remove the 11 and 15 Balls if They Get in the Way)
This is the final drill for this level.
Start with the 1-ball and pocket every ball in numerical order.
Complete the drill without missing.
