How to Avoid Scratching the 9 Ball

When you play the game of 9 ball pool, it's important to avoid a table scratch. Missing the lowest numbered ball on the table gives your opponent the opportunity to take a "ball in hand" and run the table or pocket the 9 ball. Here's how to plan your shots to avoid this fatal mistake.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Set up your shots before you hit the cue ball. Think about where the cue ball is likely to stop after you hit the ball you are aiming at. On every shot, you must hit the lowest numbered ball on the table before the cue ball strikes any other ball.

2. Plan your shot so that the cue ball comes to rest in a position that gives you an opportunity to hit the next higher numbered ball on your subsequent shot. If this is not possible, try to make a shot that will "bury" that ball behind other balls so your opponent will not have a clear shot at it during his turn.

3. Try to take advantage of the "ball in hand" rule. By hiding the cue ball with a well-placed shot, you can force your opponent into a table scratch where she cannot make initial contact with the lowest numbered ball on the table. This allows you to move the ball anywhere you choose to get the best angle on your next shot.

4. Visualize every shot to try to avoid leaving the cue ball in a position that allows your opponent a chance to sink the 9 ball early with a combination shot. This is a shot that strikes the object ball first, and then hits the 9 ball into a pocket, making an automatic win for the shooter.