How to Put Spin On a Snooker Ball

Spin, or "English" as it is sometimes called, is the ability to control where the cue ball goes after striking another ball or part of the table. It takes some time to master, but it is necessary to achieve good "shape" or ball placement and to set up your next shot. Follow the instructions below to start practicing putting spin on your cue ball.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Cue stick
• Chalk
• Patience
• Practice

1. Keep your cue stick flat. Do not angle it up or down.

2. Point the cue in the direction you want the ball to travel as you would with any other shot.

3. Strike the cue ball slightly off center depending on the direction you want the ball to travel. If you hit it slightly to the right, the ball will have more of a right-directed angle after it collides, and vice versa.

4. Strike the cue ball slightly above center to make the ball travel further than it usually would. This is called "follow."

5. Strike it slightly below center to pull the cue ball back slightly (or to make it stop after hitting another ball). This is called "draw."

6. Hit the ball further from the center to give it more spin and angle. Be careful not to go too far, however, or you will miscue the ball. Practice to find the right balance and get a feel for how much spin you can put on your cue ball.

Tips & Warnings

• Always keep your cue stick level, no matter how much spin you want to put on the ball. Angling the cue stick will only make you lose control of the ball.
• Different cue sticks may affect the amount of spin you are able to put on a ball. Practice with your own cue or different cues to get the hang of it.
• Never strike the ball too low or it will jump off of the table.
• Always keep your cue fully chalked. Without chalk, you will miscue.