Most missed pots aren’t a lack of skill — they’re a change in routine under pressure. A consistent routine gives your cue action the same conditions every time.
A routine that works
- Read the shot from behind. Stand behind the cue ball, looking down the line to the object ball and pocket.
- Choose position. Decide exactly where the cue ball should finish and how much pace that needs, before you get down.
- Walk into the line. Step into your stance along the shot line rather than adjusting once you’re down.
- Settle your bridge. Plant a firm bridge at a consistent length.
- Practice cues. Two or three smooth, relaxed strokes, eyes moving between cue ball and object ball.
- Pause. A brief stop at the back of the backswing.
- Deliver and stay down. Follow through straight and stay still until the object ball drops.
Drills to make it stick
- Straight-pot ladder. Set a straight pot into a corner pocket and play it with your full routine ten times in a row. Move it further away when you can pot all ten.
- Silent count. Count your practice cues under your breath. If the number changes, start again.
- Match-night simulation. In practice, play every shot as if it’s the deciding frame — routine first.
Go further
Level 2 of the Pool Academy builds a full pre-shot routine and cue-ball control into a 30-day practice challenge. Soon, AI Coach will review videos of your routine and tell you where it changes.