How to Follow Up a Cue Ball Shot in Pool

Whether you are a professional pool player or a player who's just out to have fun, it's important to master the basic strokes. Applying "English" to the cue ball will impart different kinds of momentum to the object ball. The types of English that are applied are top, bottom and side. A top English shot is a follow up shot.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Align the tip of the cue with the center of the cue ball. This ball and cue alignment will give the cue ball a straight shot. When applying English to the cue ball the point of impact of the cue with the cue ball will vary depending on what type of effect you want on the cue ball.

2. Move the tip of the cue up slightly above center and maintain the cue parallel to the floor. The distance that the cue ball needs to travel after hitting the object ball determines how much power you need to transfer in the strike of the cue. In general, the follow up shot is a soft shot unless the cue ball is to travel a great distance after it strikes the object ball.

3. Follow through with your shot after striking the cue ball. By following through with the stroke of the cue, you will ensure that your aim is true. One of the most important points in pool is not only making a shot but also how you leave the cue ball. When your turn is finished, it is your opponent's turn. Your goal should be to leave the cue ball in the position that leaves little or no shot at their balls.

Tips & Warnings

• Always chalk your cue before an English shot. The cue will be less likely to slip on the strike and cause a miscue.

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