Do you struggle potting the ball, or with finding the perfect shot? The key is to know what to focus on when playing snooker.
When you are playing snooker or pool, or anything like that, the key is to look where you are playing the shot, as well as thinking about the aim of the shot.
When thinking about what shot to play, there are two things you need to think about. The line of the cue ball, and the line of the ball you are trying to hit.
Point of view
Several players will often look from the point of view they are trying to hit. They will observe the angle they need to get the ball to go into the pot. But when trying this kind of shot, you need to consider the angle of the cue ball.
A lot of players in this situation are not able to compensate enough when adjusting their angles for the cue ball.
The best way to do this is to observe the angle of the ball you want to hit first, and then drop back and see it from the cue ball. Try and get the angle you need to force the ball into the pocket, or wherever else you are looking to aim it.
Precision aim
It is also helpful to visualise in your mind where you want the cue ball to hit on the ball you are aiming to pocket. If you have that point in your mind, you can then focus and get the correct angle to hit the ball and put it into the pocket.
If one of these is slightly out, there is a good chance you will not make the shot, and possibly hand over control to your opponent.
However, you do need to be precise. And this is something you will eventually get with practice, and honing in that skill means you will only get better and better.
Looking for more advice? Check out our post on snooker practice drills to improve your break building.
Snooker Jim
Gone from a 6ft table in my dad's garage as a kid to a 9ft table at the office, with the full-size snooker club visits in between. Hoping one day to get the playing technique right.
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