Stroke Techniques

Pool throw refers to the physical act of billiard balls clinging together long enough to ruin--or cinch--a shot. We'll show you how to use pool throw to do either in this article.

I recommend the triple loosen technique for pool draw. It works. What's your take on drawing the cue ball?

Want to play pool like the masters? Use this simple technique to "suck the rock with massive draw" and play pool right.

There are four ways to create a basic stroke in pool--these are not four types of stroke but four ways to produce a basic motion with the shooting arm.

The myth promulgated by "top" instruction books insists that most all pool strokes are the same. They certainly are not--and some of my favorite variations on the classic pool stroke are herein documented.

Stop action unretouched photography shows the power of a skilled 8-ball open break.

Crushing a 9-ball rack like the pros is easy when you know how--and here it is outlined for you in stop action photos.

The secret to a lovely draw shot lies in not lifting the hand abrubtly, before the stroke begins.

Interestingly, there are two basic types of draw strokes that can be learned, and one may fit your pool skills better than the other.

The force draw shot is exciting and wild, yet controlled. The beginner has something to dream for--the ability to place massive spin onto the cue ball.

This is a shot any rank beginner can do, if they know how. It is a terrific play to make on work close to the cue ball.

The slip stroke is a technique that many players do on an unconscious basis. You may want to experiment to add it to your game.

The reverse slip stroke is a powerful technique to learn. The cue is literally thrown through the hand and then caught again.

This is another of those out-of-the-box pool techniques that may pleasantly surprise you.

It's fun, it's fast, it's three dimensional--it's the cool pool jump shot. And, even a beginner can master this simple technique.