Playing Off the Cushion

Objective: Judge rebound angles for both the cue ball and object ball off one or more cushions.

Why it matters: Not every shot is a straight line to the pocket — cushion shots and doubles are often the only legal or safe option.

Watch: Video on rail shots and simple doubles with angle reasoning.

Learn: Guide on rebound-angle estimation (angle in = angle out, adjusted for spin).

See it: Diagram of rail-shot and double geometry.

Practise: Set up 10 simple rail shots and 5 doubles, log successes.

Test yourself: n/a

Challenge: Pot 3 doubles in a 10-attempt session.

Common mistakes: Ignoring spin's effect on rebound angle and missing predictable rail shots.

Coaching cue: The cushion is just another surface you control, not a last resort.

Completion criteria: 6/10 rail shots and 3/10+ doubles potted in session.