CreeDo said:A book I always recommend is the 99 critical shots in pool, though you probably were looking for 8 and 9 ball and this book is oldish (so it has more on straight pool patterns). But the info in that book on playing position in general is valuable and presented really well. It's the first pool book I read, and after reading maybe 20-30 others, I still like it best.
Just as a general rule, a good way to look at patterns is to roll some balls out on the table (4 is a good start) and take ball in hand, then see if you can figure out a pattern that will give you as many stop shots as possible, or as many shots that are very close to stop shots (CB barely has to move). It'd be nice if you can actually run the balls and do it according to plan, but for now just try to spot the absolute simplest pattern that will keep cue ball movement to a minimum. Also avoid patterns where the cue ball has to be moved in a very precise way that demands a ton of skill... like if you need the cue ball to roll forward 4 inches after travelling 6 feet, and you're screwed if it rolls a few inches too far... you gotta rethink that plan.
jon21588 said:What are the best ways to study position patterns?
Are there any good books/instructional dvds?
If so, what are your recommendations?
jon21588 said:What are the best ways to study position patterns?
Are there any good books/instructional dvds?
If so, what are your recommendations?
CreeDo said:Just as a general rule, a good way to look at patterns is to roll some balls out on the table (4 is a good start) and take ball in hand, then see if you can figure out a pattern that will give you as many stop shots as possible, or as many shots that are very close to stop shots (CB barely has to move). It'd be nice if you can actually run the balls and do it according to plan, but for now just try to spot the absolute simplest pattern that will keep cue ball movement to a minimum. Also avoid patterns where the cue ball has to be moved in a very precise way that demands a ton of skill... like if you need the cue ball to roll forward 4 inches after travelling 6 feet, and you're screwed if it rolls a few inches too far... you gotta rethink that plan.
Just as a general rule, a good way to look at patterns is to roll some balls out on the table (4 is a good start) and take ball in hand, then see if you can figure out a pattern that will give you as many stop shots as possible, or as many shots that are very close to stop shots (CB barely has to move). It'd be nice if you can actually run the balls and do it according to plan, but for now just try to spot the absolute simplest pattern that will keep cue ball movement to a minimum. Also avoid patterns where the cue ball has to be moved in a very precise way that demands a ton of skill... like if you need the cue ball to roll forward 4 inches after travelling 6 feet, and you're screwed if it rolls a few inches too far... you gotta rethink that plan.
this is a very good answer to the post. if you watch most players, the last 3 or 4 balls is when you get out of line and not get out. i do it more than i should. run out to the 6 or 7 and get funny, next thing ya know your on the wrong side of the 8 and ya gotta put some kinda crazy mojo on the cue ball in hopes of getting a decent shot at the money. it should get easier when you are almost thru the rack. fewer obstacles but for most, myself included it can be trickey at time. i think , for me anyway that if i am not really bearing down and in the zone, is when i really mess up. taking it for granted. again nice answer.CreeDo said:A book I always recommend is the 99 critical shots in pool, though you probably were looking for 8 and 9 ball and this book is oldish (so it has more on straight pool patterns). But the info in that book on playing position in general is valuable and presented really well. It's the first pool book I read, and after reading maybe 20-30 others, I still like it best.
Just as a general rule, a good way to look at patterns is to roll some balls out on the table (4 is a good start) and take ball in hand, then see if you can figure out a pattern that will give you as many stop shots as possible, or as many shots that are very close to stop shots (CB barely has to move). It'd be nice if you can actually run the balls and do it according to plan, but for now just try to spot the absolute simplest pattern that will keep cue ball movement to a minimum. Also avoid patterns where the cue ball has to be moved in a very precise way that demands a ton of skill... like if you need the cue ball to roll forward 4 inches after travelling 6 feet, and you're screwed if it rolls a few inches too far... you gotta rethink that plan.