Tips for Breaking in Pool

The break is one of the most important shots in any pool game. In 8-ball, a good break can set you up with a number of shots and spread the balls nicely, putting you well on your way to winning the game. In 9-ball, the break can win the game outright. As your pool game improves, the break will become even more important because you will be able to capitalize on the advantages a good break gives you.

  1. Prepare for Your Pool Break

    • Many of the ingredients of a good pool break are added before you even line up the cue. The balls should be touching or "frozen" so that your break can efficiently transmit force through the whole rack, sending the balls flying. Chalk up before you heft you cue up. Your cue needs to have plenty of chalk on it to get a good grip on the cue ball. Pick the right cue for your break. Many beginners assume that a heavier cue will result in a stronger break, but actually a light cue is a better choice for breaking in pool.

    Break for your Game

    • Both 8-ball and 9-ball require different strategies for breaking. In 8-ball, you want to break with as much power as possible. Hit the cue ball in the center or a quarter tip above the center with full force, aiming either at the front or second ball. In 9-ball, slow down a bit to maintain control over your cue ball. Hit it about a cue tip above center and hit the one ball flush. This will keep the cue ball under control, putting you in a good position for a second shot.

    Perfect Your Break

    • Develop your perfect break and use it every time. In both 8-ball and 9-ball, you can break from anywhere along the head string. Some players prefer to hit the leading ball from near the head spot, while others aim for the second ball from near the rail. Figure out a break that works for you and perfect it. You will do better with just one break you can hit perfectly every time than with a variety of breaks in which your execution is average.