How to Learn the Three Basic Strokes in the Game of Pool

Pool makes an excellent hobby. It's fun, easy to learn and a great way to meet people. To get started, all you need are the three basic strokes, which some call shots. Follow these clear, easy instructions and you'll be a pool shark in no time.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Pool table
• Pool cue
• 2 balls

Learn the Straight Shot

1. Set the cue ball directly across from the strike ball and leave about six inches between them. The best way to practice these basic strokes is in the center of the pool table, where you can shoot into either of the center pockets.

2. Raise your bridge hand and your cue. Aim your cue at top third of the cue ball. Set up your shot and follow through with it.

3. Watch both balls roll into the pocket.

Practice the Stop Shot

4. Position the cue ball directly across from the strike ball, just as you did in Section 1, Step 1.

5. Keep your bridge hand in a neutral position (neither raised nor lowered). Aim your cue at the center of the cue ball. Establish your shot and complete it.

6. Notice that the cue ball slides, not rolls, into the strike ball. The strike ball rolls into the pocket and the cue ball comes to rest exactly where the strike ball sat before you struck it.

Master the Draw Shot

7. Put the cue ball across from the strike ball.

8. Lower your bridge hand and aim the cue at the bottom third of the cue ball. Set up your stroke and follow through with the shot.

9. Observe the strike ball rolling into the pocket as the cue ball rolls backward into the opposite pocket.