1. Home
  2. Sports
  3. Pool / Billiards

Two Most Important Position Tools

By , About.com Guide

4 of 4

Shaping (positioning the cue ball for) the next ball

Photo (c) Matt Sherman 2008, licensed to About.com, Inc.
In this instance, we will carom the cue ball off the 12-ball with a stop stroke, playing a simple position for the 13-ball.

The two concepts of aligning the object ball with the pocket’s center at its opening and playing the tangent line are the two most important principles in playing position in pool and billiards.

The 12-ball is being shot toward the player’s right, and therefore the cue ball will expend its energy in the most convenient outlet, moving toward the player’s left (as viewed from behind the cue ball along the shot line. The cue ball goes on way, the object ball another, always.

Explore Pool / Billiards

About.com Special Features

Holiday Central

What to eat, where to go, fun things to do and how to save money on the perfect gifts. More >

Introduction to Pilates

Learning Pilates fundamentals can help you get the most out of your exercise regime. More >

  1. Home
  2. Sports
  3. Pool / Billiards
  4. Basic Techniques
  5. Play for Position
  6. Tangent Position Aiming In Pool & Billiards - Cue Ball Position - How To Position The Tangent Line

©2009 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company.

All rights reserved.