The Pre-Shot Routine - Easy Pool Tutor

Pre-shot routine refers to a series of steps that a pool player must undertake prior to executing each and every shot. These steps are necessary to develop correct habits that will improve and promote consistency in your game.

In pocket billiards, there are so many different variables that can adversely affect the outcome of a shot. The pool player's objective is to minimize the variables to increase the chances of successfully executing a particular shot.

Elements of a Pre-Shot Routine

The following are some of the basic steps of a pre-shot routine. Each element will be discussed in more detail in another article.

Planning

Before you even approach the shot and go into your alignment, stance, practice strokes, etc. you need to have a plan. You need to decide how to want to execute a particular shot. Will you go for the offensive shot or is a defensive shot more appropriate? Where do you want the cue ball to go after executing the shot? These are the types of questions that you will be asking yourself in the planning phase. Walk around the table and look at all the possibilities to help you decide and determine the best course of action.

Aim, Body and Cue Alignment

After you have decided on a plan of action, the next step is to approach the table and positioning your body and cue in alignment with the shot and the line of aim. Determine your line of aim and set your feet to align your body correctly. This is discussed in The Pool Stance article.

Stance, Grip and Bridge

After aligning your body and cue relative to the line of aim, the next step is to get down on your stance. While you are down on your stance  you need to be aware of the proper grip and bridging techniques as well. See The Pool Grip and The Bridge lessons for more details.

The Stroke

The last step is to execute your stroke. Ideally, your cue stick should be along a path of your aim line while stroking. This will ensure that.the cue ball is sent along a straight path to the object ball allowing you to pocket the ball successfully. Stroke is discussed in more detail in The Stroke lesson.

Recommended routine for planning and executing a shot

Video courtesy of Dr. Dave and The Illustrated Principles of Pool and Billiards at www.engr.colostate.edu/pool/