Spots and explinations

I feel a bit like a fool but the only way I will learn is to ask. Can I get some common spots and explinations. I don't need and explination to "the break" either although I could use some clarification on spoting balls. For example, if someone gives me the eight in nineball is that the same as getting the eight and out?
As well, I would love to hear some of the stranger spots you all have seen/played in your days.
Just try to make everything as simple as possible. I love the game and play decent. I just haven't had much experience on the gambling side of it.

Thanks.

Thank you......