How to Sink a Pool Ball
What do pool sharks know that you don’t about sinking a ball? Lots.
You Will Need
- A pool table
- Pool balls
- A rack
- A pool cue
Steps
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Step 1
Watch the pros
Spend some time watching pool tournaments. See what tricks you can pick up from studying the pros.
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Step 2
Chalk your cue
Chalk your cue before each shot, holding the chalk at a slight angle as you gently brush it onto the tip. Don't chalk from side to side, and don't spin the tip into the chalk.
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If a ring develops below the ferrule, which is the band right below the tip, you're not chalking correctly.
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Step 3
Line up the shot
While getting into your shooting stance, line up the shot with your chin.
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Step 4
Keep the cue level
Hold the cue as level as possible. The forearm of your dominant hand should be at a 90-degree angle to the floor.
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Keep a loose hold on the cue; gripping it too tightly will ruin your shot.
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Step 5
Straighten your head
Make sure your head is pointing straight ahead. Amateurs tend to tilt their head in the direction of their dominant eye, which throws off their aim.
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Press down on the fingertips of the hand that’s on the table, so that your arm doesn’t move when you make your shot.
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Step 6
Pull your arm back slowly
As you begin your shot, pull your arm back slowly and steadily, as if you were drawing back a bow and arrow.
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Step 7
Fire!
Keep the cue steady as you hit the ball, and stay in position until the ball (hopefully!) falls into a pocket.
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In 1920, a billiards pro named Henry Lewis sank 46 balls without a miss -- using his nose!
