Run a table: reference lines & position

S

salux

AzB Silver Member
Silver Member
Hi there,

I have difficulties to approach a table clearance. I mean what are the mental processes to run out?
I'm told there exists reference lines and position techniques. Can anyone teach me how to use them properly?
Is there any manual or website which explain that?

Many thanks,
Tony
 
Dr Dave's 45-degree rule for center-of-table position routes in pool and billiards is an excellent baseline for learning routes around the table.

https://youtu.be/9OD5TsWrByI

Once you can get to the center of the table consistently only hitting with the vertical axis of the cue ball, then try to experiment with english to vary the routes.

Here's Ralph Eckert's reference line for shots near the spot:

https://youtu.be/pOajow_tSds?list=PL4B9E5D76AE9F913F

All in all if you can master the tangent line and manipulate it then you can pretty much put the cue ball anywhere on the table. What makes it difficult is controlling your stroke speed.
 
I usually find what I consider to be the "key" ball or "problem" ball and figure out where I need the cue ball for that particular shot, then I work backwards.
 
salux said:
Hi there,

I have difficulties to approach a table clearance. I mean what are the mental processes to run out?
I'm told there exists reference lines and position techniques. Can anyone teach me how to use them properly?
Is there any manual or website which explain that?

Many thanks,
Tony
Click to expand...

The answer is different for different levels of play. For example, a beginner or intermediate player can't be expected to perform more advanced moves. What level are you at and what game are you referring to?
 
Send me a PM if you like. I teach sequencing and position in my personal lessons and on my site. Couple of quick tips?

* Start with the line of aim for the ball you wish to pocket next. Typically, one side of that line is superior to the other side to get shape on the third ball, the upcoming shot.

* In non-rotation games, there are simple tricks to dividing the balls on the table into smart groups, so you know which ball(s) to focus on next. Players who have trouble running in Eight Ball are usually looking at the hardest, longest shots of their sequence on the final balls because of failure to plan ahead.
 
BilliardsAbout said:
Send me a PM if you like. I teach sequencing and position in my personal lessons and on my site. Couple of quick tips?

* Start with the line of aim for the ball you wish to pocket next. Typically, one side of that line is superior to the other side to get shape on the third ball, the upcoming shot.

* In non-rotation games, there are simple tricks to dividing the balls on the table into smart groups, so you know which ball(s) to focus on next. Players who have trouble running in Eight Ball are usually looking at the hardest, longest shots of their sequence on the final balls because of failure to plan ahead.
Click to expand...

Hi Matt,

Your last statement is true about many.

Sometimes shooting the more or most difficult shot first or second is the road to an otherwise easy run out. Too many 'always' take the easiest shot at the table & their shots usually get progressively more difficult until they miss & leave an easy table for their opponent.

There are times when it is best to shoot a two way shot, especially when shooing the more 'difficult' shots like that first or early difficult one.

There is more than running out to winning games such as 8 ball.

Too many only think about running out & do not see when that is NOT the thing to do.

It's about accessing risk vs reward & making the correct right decisions. I'm not big on straight out safeties but sometimes that is the best course of action.

Best Wishes for You & Yours,
Rick

PS I've always won the most run outs award in every league that I played way back in the days of my 'youth'.
 
Last edited:
Hi buddy,

The OP asked "I have difficulties to approach a table clearance" not "how do I think through offense, defense and two-way shots".

You wrote:

"Too many 'always' take the easiest shot at the table & their shots usually get progressively more difficult until they miss & leave an easy table for their opponent."
Click to expand...

My point exactly, thanks. Identifying a key ball or two and leaving them for the end is one help. The OP can PM me for more.
 
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