When it comes to learning how to shoot pool, your stroke is undoubtedly one of the most critical components. After taking a recent break from the game, I was reminded of a few simple yet powerful fundamentals that remain vital for maintaining a solid technique. While there are countless details to consider (I’ve even written a book outlining 20 of them), it’s not realistic to recall that many during a match. That’s why this post focuses on just three core tips to help you shoot more consistently—especially under pressure.
Before we jump into the practical advice, here’s a mindset shift that can instantly elevate your game: Focus on awareness rather than giving yourself internal commands. For instance, instead of telling yourself, “Keep your wrist relaxed,” ask, “How relaxed is my wrist right now?” This subtle change encourages your body to respond naturally, rather than mechanically, creating smoother and more effective movements.
British pool champion Darren Appleton once shared a simple yet powerful mantra: “Keep your head still.” But it goes beyond just the head—you want your entire body to remain stable while taking the shot, moving only your cueing arm.
Many coaches emphasize this, and yet it’s easy to overlook. When I recently paid attention to this again, I realized my body was subtly shifting during shots. Once I made a conscious effort to stay completely still, I started landing even the toughest shots with greater accuracy. If you’re missing difficult shots, it might not be your aim—it could be a slight body movement you’re not aware of. Try focusing on stillness for a while; you may be surprised by the results.
Just like staying still, keeping your wrist relaxed is crucial—but often ignored. A tense or overly active wrist can interfere with your stroke and cost you precision. Ideally, your wrist should hang naturally and stay passive throughout the motion. In pool, the wrist isn’t meant to guide the cue—it simply follows along.
Many players know this in theory, but forget to check in with their body. Personally, I’ve found that when I consciously observe how relaxed my wrist is, it tends to loosen up even more, and my accuracy improves. A soft, passive wrist equals smoother strokes and better control.
This tip ties everything together: If your body is still and your wrist is passive, you also need a reliable stance to keep everything aligned. Consistency in your stance ensures that your body and cue are positioned the same way for every shot.
To build this habit, practice aligning your body with the shot direction before you even get down on the table. One effective method is to “walk into” your shot from the front, rather than approaching it from the side. This helps you naturally set up in line with your target and makes repeatable mechanics much easier.
Improving your pool technique doesn’t always require mastering 20 different tips. Sometimes, focusing on just a few key elements—stillness, a passive wrist, and a consistent stance—can unlock noticeable improvements in your game. Try integrating these habits into your practice and see how your performance changes under pressure.
Who makes the best pool cues in the world? The answer depends on what you…
Poland’s Mieszko Fortuński Wins the 2025 Predator Austrian Open St. Johann im Pongau, Austria —…
Ever wondered, “What’s the actual difference between a stop shot and a draw shot?” It’s…
The World Pool-Billiard Association (WPA) is thrilled to announce the official formation of the Athletes’…
Predator Euro Tour SeriesPresented by the City of Tallinn Joshua Filler and Jasmin Ouschan continued…
Mental strength is often treated like a mysterious gift—something you’re either born with or you’re…