The goal of this blog is to help you become a better pool player. But “better” means different things depending on your current level and what you’re aiming for. To make this clearer—for both you and me—I’ve outlined three common types of pool players. For each type, I’ll explain their defining traits, how they improve, what they can realistically expect from their game, and what kind of equipment suits them best.
Of course, this is just a general model—not a scientific classification. You might find yourself somewhere between two types or shifting from one to another as your journey evolves. That’s perfectly normal. The key idea is simple: different types of players need different things.
1. The Casual Player
Who they are:
Casual players are those who play pool occasionally—maybe once or twice a year, or a few times at social gatherings. They typically play on bar tables, often in a fun, group setting, with rules like “winner stays on.” They enjoy the game but haven’t really explored the technical side of pool.
What helps them improve:
Casual players don’t play frequently enough to develop muscle memory over time, but they can improve within a single session—especially with the right tips. Simple, practical advice—like how to hold a proper bridge, aim correctly, or chalk the cue—can quickly elevate their level of play and boost confidence.
What to expect:
Fun should be the only expectation. Some days they’ll play surprisingly well; other days not so much—and that’s okay. The body hasn’t developed consistent technique, so performance will vary. Like trying to play the piano once a year, frustration isn’t useful. If they want real improvement, it’s time to move into the next category.
Which cue is best:
Most casual players use the house cues provided at the bar. If that’s the case, the two most important things are:
- A cue with a solid, curved (not flat or worn) tip
- Chalk—if there’s chalk available, use it!
If a casual player wants their own cue, nearly anything is an upgrade over bar cues. Just avoid cues with screw-on tips. Look for beginner-friendly options with glued tips for a better playing experience.
2. The Ambitious Player
Who they are:
Ambitious players are those who want to get better and are willing to invest time in doing so. They play anywhere from once a month to several times a week and have realized that casual play alone doesn’t lead to real progress. They’re also open to learning through practice—not just matches.
What helps them improve:
The key to improvement here is focused, intentional practice. Many ambitious players hit a plateau because they only “practice” by playing against friends, which leads to slow progress. Real gains come from working on specific drills and developing core skills. Watching pros, studying videos, and even hiring a coach can accelerate improvement.
Ambitious players should have a structured plan for what to practice—and stick to it. Yes, it’s work, but it’s also rewarding.
What to expect:
If you don’t practice regularly, don’t expect dramatic progress. You’ll likely feel stuck and frustrated. But for those who do put in the work, gradual improvement is guaranteed. Like everyone else, ambitious players should minimize expectations about performance on any given day and stay curious about what the game brings.
Which cue is best:
Ambitious players should invest in their own cue. For beginners in this group, cues from brands like Fury or Players are excellent starting points. As they progress, cues with low-deflection shafts—like the Players Pure X with HXT shaft—are a smart upgrade.
High-level ambitious players often choose premium brands like Predator, Mezz, Lucasi Hybrid, or even custom cues.
At some point, a separate break/jump cue becomes useful too. Entry-level models or advanced tools like the Players Pure X P-1 or P-2 are solid choices.
3. The Master
Who they are:
Masters are players who treat pool as a major part of their lives. They may or may not be professionals in the financial sense, but they’re pros in their mindset, discipline, and dedication. Their fundamentals are rock-solid, and their experience includes countless hours of match play and training.
What helps them improve:
At this level, growth comes not from learning new basics but from refining details and innovating. Masters often have mentors or coaches but are increasingly self-directed. They explore new techniques, challenge conventional wisdom, and sometimes even invent their own methods.
Masters also take care of themselves beyond the table. They eat well, stay physically fit, and develop routines to maintain focus through long tournaments.
What to expect:
A master’s skill set is deeply ingrained and won’t fade easily, short of serious life disruption. However, reaching the next level requires even more experimentation and effort. That’s because improvements become harder to spot and harder to achieve—but also more meaningful. Masters should remain open to change, not just for personal growth but to help evolve the game itself.
Which cue is best:
By this stage, masters know exactly what they need—and have likely tried many options over the years. They select their equipment based on fine-tuned preferences, often choosing high-end or custom cues tailored to their style and needs.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re playing once a year with friends or spending hours a week drilling shots and studying game theory, your journey in pool matters. The key is to recognize where you are, adjust your expectations, and focus on what you need at that stage to move forward.
Pool is for everyone—but how you grow in the game depends on how you approach it.
