Things You'll Need:
- Pool table
- Pool cues
- Chalk (recommended)
- Pool bridge (optional)
- 15 billiard balls (numbered one to 15)
- Cue ball
- Rack
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Step 1
Place the rack at the foot spot of the table.
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Step 2
Insert any ball other than the eight-ball at the corner of the rack touching the foot spot. Place two balls behind it, touching tightly.
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Step 3
Put the eight-ball behind the two balls and place another ball on each side of the eight-ball.
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Step 4
Drop in the remaining balls, placing a solid ball at one far corner of the rack and a striped ball at the other far corner. Be sure the balls are packed closely together.
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Step 1
Place the cue ball anywhere in the kitchen area behind the imaginary line or head string, formed by drawing a line through the center of the head spot parallel to the back rail. Some players place the cue ball near the back rail and rest their hold hand and cue stick on it when shooting, while others place the cue ball as near the head spot as possible for more finesse. Either way, the cue ball should be placed on the side of the kitchen matching the side of the ball in the rack for which you are aiming.
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Step 2
Aim for either the ball at the head spot or the ball to its immediate right or left, according to your comfort level and the hand with which you shoot.
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Step 3
Draw back the cue stick as far as possible. Your power should come from the length of your stroke, not how fast you push the cue stick.
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Step 4
Push the cue stick forward in a smooth, fluid motion.
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Step 5
Strike the cue ball squarely in the middle, just below center. This will cause it to transfer all its momentum to the other balls on contact and come to rest in the center of the table. Striking the ball off-center will cause it to spin; the angular momentum will rob your shot of its power.
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Step 6
Complete your follow-through with the cue stick. If possible, shift your body weight forward to impart even more oomph to the cue ball.
