How to Play Pocket Billiards

Playing pocket billiards, commonly known as pool, can be fun as well as competitive. But, to avoid losing your shirt, or a month's rent to a hustler, it's essential that you know the basic rules and variations of the game.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Familiarize yourself with the different types of pocket billiards you can play. The most common games include 8-ball, 9-ball, rotation and straight pool.

2. Begin every game by "lagging for the break." Each player strikes the cue ball, making sure it hits the bank, or rail, on the far side of the table. The one that stays closest to the rail after hitting it plays first, or gets to break.

3. Stand with at least one foot on the floor when making a shot. Failure to do this results in a foul, and you lose your turn.

4. Hold the cue stick by setting it on top of your thumb and third finger and under your second finger. Hold it firmly in place, but don't hinder its movement between the fingers. This should also prevent it from touching and damaging the felt surface of the table.

5. Hit balls into the table's pockets in accordance with the rules of the game you're playing: in numerical order for straight pool, 9-ball and rotation or stripes and solids for 8-ball. Continue until you miss sinking a shot.

Who Can Help:

• Tired of Being Tired? Fight Fatigue and Try FRS for FREE!