How to Establish 8-Ball Rules in a Pool Game

Establish 8-Ball rules before starting the game. 8-Ball can be played in two basic ways. The first way to play 8-Ball is to call all the shots taken. Alternatively, players can play "Trash" and take whatever shot that comes.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Break the rack. The player who shoots first has to shoot solids or stripes depending on which type is sunk during the break. If both types are sunk, the player can choose between the two. If no balls go in on the break, the next player gets to decide whether they will shoot for solids or stripes.

2. Call all shots before taking them. Players must announce the shot they are going to take before they shoot. If they hit another ball than the one announced, they forfeit their turn.

3. Continue play until a shot is missed. The players take turns announcing shots until all the balls have been shot off the table.

4. Think about all shot options on the first shot of the game. The player shooting wants to not just sink a ball but give themselves a chance for an additional shot following a successful shot.

5. Shoot for the specified type of ball until missed. The next player then takes their turn. Keep playing until all the balls of one type are shot from the table.

6. Call the shot for the 8 ball. If the ball goes in the player wins. If the cue ball also is sunk, then the player loses.

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