Using the Rest Properly

Objective: Use the rest confidently and accurately when a shot is out of normal reach.

Why it matters: Reluctance to use the rest causes more missed and mis-cued shots than the rest itself ever does — it's a tool, not an admission of failure.

Watch: Video on correct rest height, grip and follow-through with the rest.

Learn: Guide addressing common rest myths and correct technique.

See it: Diagram of rest positioning relative to the cue ball.

Practise: Dedicated rest-training drill: 15 shots using the rest at varying distances.

Test yourself: n/a

Challenge: Pot 7/10 rest shots at a medium cut angle.

Common mistakes: Gripping the cue too tightly on the rest, losing the smooth stroke.

Coaching cue: The rest is a tool, not a tell.

Completion criteria: 7/10 success on the rest-shot challenge.