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Step 1
Know how to rack the balls for the "break." Different games require you to set up the balls differently for the initial break to begin a game. For instance, a game of nine-ball requires that only nine balls be racked in a diamond shape, whereas straight pool or eight-ball require that all 15 balls be set up in a triangle.
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Step 2
Know your boundaries. The initial break must be taken behind a line, usually marked by a spot on the table.
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Step 3
Keep one foot on the floor at all times, even when stretching for a difficult shot. Otherwise this results in a penalty.
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Step 4
Sinking the white (cue) ball on any shot results in a "scratch," which in most games results in a ball you've "sunk" or pocketed being returned to the table and your opponent being able to place the cue ball anywhere he wants behind the break line.
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Step 5
Continue shooting until you fail to sink a ball into a pocket or (in the case of eight ball or rotation pool) sink the wrong ball or your opponent's ball.
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Step 1
Find a good source where you can look up and get an explanation of the rules of pool. There are quite a few online that not only explain the rules, but offer tips on how to play a better game. A couple of the better ones are listed in the resources section.
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Step 2
Join a forum or group that shares your interest in pool. Exchange ideas and discuss rules or rule changes.
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Step 3
Read the rulebook and become acquainted with at least the basic rules of the game. A complete rulebook can be printed out from the websites listed below.
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Step 4
Play with people that are better at the game than you are. You'll not only learn technique, but will probably get a crash course in the rules of the game.
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Step 5
Subscribe to newsletters or magazines that exclusively cover pool as a sport. These are a great source for keeping up with rule changes and for refining your game.
