How to Play Better Pool by Scratching

Play better pool by scratching may sound a little backwards, but sometimes nothing helps you learn faster than making mistakes. Scratching occurs when the cue ball goes into the pocket on a shot. There are various ways to handle the penalty for scratching or committing a foul in 8-ball. The penalty differs based on when it occurs during the game.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Remove one of the stripe or solid balls that you put in the pocket, based on your group, whether it was the ball you shot or not when you scratched.

2. Place that ball on the table in the same location as the ball that went in. If another ball is now in its place, set your ball behind it.

3. Take the cue ball and give it to your opponent. He can choose anywhere on the table to place the cue ball for his next shot.

4. Repeat the first part of Step 3 if you scratch on the break, except your opponent must place the cue ball anywhere behind the headstring or baulk line in preparation for his next shot. The headstring is the top of the pool table where you stand to break.

5. Instruct your opponent that she can shoot at any ball on or in front of the headstring. If she would like to shoot at a ball behind the headstring, the cue ball must go all the way to the opposite end of the table, hit the rail and then come back before it touches the object ball.

6. Let your opponent know that he can move the cue ball for a better shot by hand or using the pool stick even after placing it on the table. The cue tip must not come into contact with the cue ball or it's considered a shot.

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