How to Draw a Billiard Ball

Drawing a cue ball is one of the most basic forms of "English" or spin. It is essential to control where the cue ball will end up after your shot, which is called "shape." To draw a cue ball means to make it roll backwards after striking another ball. It is a useful move when your cue ball is close to a pocket or to pull the ball back to the other end of the table.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Cue stick
• Pool table
• Pool balls
• Cue ball
• Chalk

How to Draw a Billiard Ball

1. To draw a cue ball, hit is below the center. Keep the cue stick flat without tilting it too far up.

2. Hitting the ball too low will cause it jump. Try not to hit more than halfway below the center of the ball and the table.

3. You can draw the ball back and to one side by striking the cue ball slightly off-center.

4. Practice with different shot strengths. Too much draw, and the cue ball will speed up as it pulls backwards. Too little draw, and the cue ball will simply stay in place after striking another ball.

Tips & Warnings

• Practice draws in order to get used to how hard you have to hit the ball.
• You must keep your cue stick fully chalked in order to prevent a miscue.