1. Hitting the Cue Ball for Specific Effects
- Top Spin: To make the cue ball move forward after it contacts the object ball, strike it slightly above centre. This technique is useful when you need the cue ball to advance beyond the point of contact for your next shot.
- Back Spin: To pull the cue ball back towards you after hitting the object ball, hit it below centre. This is especially useful for setting up shots where your next target is behind the current position of the cue ball, but it’s also useful when you want to avoid potting the cue ball.
- Side Spin: Apply left or right spin by striking the cue ball on its respective side. This affects the angle of deflection off the object ball or cushions, helping to avoid obstacles or position the cue ball more favourably for subsequent shots. This isn’t as complicated as it may seem. Instead of hitting the cue ball in the middle, hit it slightly on the left or the right of the centre.
2. Curving the Cue Ball
- Massé Shot: To curve the cue ball dramatically, sharply elevate your pool cue to a 30–40-degree angle and strike the ball with significant top or bottom spin. This shot is useful for manoeuvring around obstructing balls that block a straight path to the target ball.
To put it simply, to Massé left, hit down the top of the cue ball at 9 o’clock. To Massé to the right, hit down the top of the cue ball at 3 o’clock. In fact, you can also Massé backwards if you hit it at 6 o’clock, although it’s not often that pros use this due to the high risk.
In some places, this shot is banned because it could do damage to the pool table overtime. However, if you have your own pool table, you have the freedom to execute any shot. Plus, a Massé is something you can impress your guests with too.
- Swerve Shot: This is a gentler curve shot where you slightly elevate the cue stick and use a softer touch, combined with side spin. It subtly alters the ball's path post-contact, allowing for fine adjustments to avoid slight obstructions or to hit the target ball at a better angle.
3. Using Table Markings for Alignment and Shot Planning
- The Diamond System: Utilise the diamonds or dots along the pool table's rails as reference points for aiming your shots. By counting diamonds and visualising the path from one diamond to another, you can predict where the cue ball will rebound off the rails.
- Visualising Lines: Before shooting, imagine a straight line extending from the desired pocket back through the object ball. This line helps identify the exact spot on the object ball the cue ball must contact. Visualise another line from the cue ball to this contact point to align your shot accurately.
4. Practicing Effective Techniques
- Drills: Set up specific shots and practice them repeatedly. Focus on mastering one type of spin or cue ball movement at a time. For example, practice drawing the ball until you can consistently control the distance it travels backward.
- Visualisation and Routine: Before each shot, visualise the cue ball's path all the way through to its final resting point. Establish a pre-shot routine to ensure consistency in your stance, cue alignment, and stroke.
By focusing on these areas, you can greatly improve your control over the cue ball, make more strategic shots, and set yourself up for success in subsequent plays. These techniques require practice to master but are essential for advancing in the game of pool.