Top 10 Reasons for Missing … and How to Prevent It

[@DrDaveBilliards]

*Contents:* 0:00 - Intro 0:29 - 1: Lack of Focus 1:15 - 2: Poor Shot Choice ---- table roll off 2:14 - 3: Bad Position ---- poor CB control ---- poor speed control ---- poor position play 4:57 - 4: Bad Aim 6:13 - 5: Bad Stroke ---- getting up on the shot 7:59 - 6: Poor Eye Pattern 8:36 - 7: Elevated Cue 8:59 - 8: Poor Sidespin Choices 10:19 - 9: Mental Errors 11:02 - 10: Other Reasons 11:31 - Wrap-Up *Supporting Resources:* - fundamentals tutorial: billiards.colostate.edu/tutorial/fundamentals/ - stroke “best practices:” billiards.colostate.edu/faq/stroke/technique/ - pre-shot routine “best practices:” billiards.colostate.edu/faq/pre-shot-routine/best-practices/ - vision center: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/eyes/vision-center/ - CB control principles: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/cue-ball-control/ - aim compensation when using sidespin: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/sidespin/aim/ - Why People Miss Shots: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/aiming/missing/ - Changes in Your Pool Game that Can Have the Biggest Impact: kzbin.info/www/bejne/bYSloXeDo950mtk - Top 10 Things POOL PLAYERS Do Wrong … and How to Fix Them: kzbin.info/www/bejne/hIirpod-eZl1sLs - Top 10 POOL SHOTS Amateurs Play Wrong … and How to Play Them Right: kzbin.info/www/bejne/eGqkkqampZymr5o - Top 10 SECRETS of Pool: kzbin.info/www/bejne/hIK1daeKfbuioK8 - Top 10 POOL SHOTS Every Player Must Know!!!: kzbin.info/www/bejne/fqKkk2ejjKqeptU - Top 10 Secrets of a Good Draw/Backspin/Screw-Back Shot: kzbin.info/www/bejne/a4izgJlpeqh4m5Y - Top 10 Pool and Billiard Myths Busted and Debunked: kzbin.info/www/bejne/mZXPgqh7hsijiNU - CUE BALL CONTROL ... Everything You Need to Know: kzbin.info/www/bejne/nIG0dnWul6esepY - Top 10 Speed Control Tips and Drills: kzbin.info/www/bejne/a6q1Y4KmeKiWnsU - Top 10 PATTERN PLAY Principles and Techniques: kzbin.info/www/bejne/en7PgnqrlNWFhLc - SIDESPIN ... Everything You Need to Know: kzbin.info/www/bejne/bF7Zf4SteZqKetk - "Got English?" - How to Aim Using SIDESPIN, With Game-Situation Examples: kzbin.info/www/bejne/e3iVaoyggahql68 - Top 10 Things You Need to Know about THROW: part 1 - kzbin.info/www/bejne/a3SaYmdprK6WY68 part 2 - kzbin.info/www/bejne/fWfSm6JnrdGcipY - Top 10 Mental Aspects of Pool - The Mental Game: kzbin.info/www/bejne/m5LGZ4KHrbR_aNk - POOL ETIQUETTE ... Everything You Need to Know: kzbin.info/www/bejne/bobHopSMZZp-q80 - Top 10 WILD and CRAZY POOL SHOTS of All Time: kzbin.info/www/bejne/gH_Vc5pqoqiJd9U - how to chalk properly: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/chalk/how-to/ - bridge technique advice: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/bridge/technique/ - cling/skid/kick: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/throw/cling/ - eyeglasses advice: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/eyes/glasses/ *Subscribe to Dr. Dave's KZbin Channel:* kzbin.info

[@hijohnnygammage7836]

4

[@rampagemototv2023]

DR.DAVE, CAN I HAVE A SUBSCRIBE FROM YOU ?

[@brianbanda8970]

Pool

[@brianbanda8970]

Jay max pool

[@DrDaveBilliards]

@@brianbanda8970 … is Cool.

[@robertmeadows1657]

One of my favorite misses is due to the ‘hurry up and hit it before the leg cramp get too severe’ stroke.

[@TupDigital]

😅

[@elonmust7470]

You might want to get that checked out. Cramping from a game of pool is not good.

[@YellaThunderTDC]

Sounds like you need a banana

[@robertmeadows1657]

K

[@pessimisticpuma]

@@YellaThunderTDC jeez, buy him a drink first.

[@ashwinbhagavansrinivas5653]

In the very beginning: "... Trust your aim..." I feel this cannot be stressed more. Very important to trust your aim and have confidence in your stroke.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Agreed.

[@garybkatz]

One thing I've learned: if the shot doesn't feel right before you stroke it, it's probably not right and you're going to miss it if you don't reset. I've had countless misses where I knew I blew it, the second the CB left the tip of my cue. I strongly suspect I subconsciously knew I missed those shots BEFORE they left my cue tip! Seeing the object ball going offline only confirmed what my subconscious was trying to tell me.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Don't just "Hit it anyway!"

[@brucemiller1696]

Many of my misses was from not going with my first instinct.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

@@brucemiller1696 But the "first instinct" isn't always best. Sometimes, after thinking about a shot some, you might find a much better solution and approach.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

The important thing is to commit to whatever you finally decide and don't have any doubts when down on the shot. If this is not the case, you should get up and re-start.

[@garybkatz]

@@DrDaveBilliards Your point leads to another mental reason for missing: splitting the difference. For example, you can't decide between a combo or straight in shot, so you hit the CB in-between the 2, and get neither. The subconscious has a strange habit of adjusting!

[@zzytrewq]

I have been playing pool very inconsistent for over 50 years. About 6 months ago I discovered the flaw in my shooting. Breaking my shot play into discrete steps and not varying that routine has improved my game immensely. Never too late to learn and improve.

[@divjot1016]

I love how you added comedic effects and changed up the outfits for your proper shots vs the person who misses. Small details but really adds to the video. :)

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Thanks. Then you should like my "Changes in Your Pool Game that Can Have the Biggest Impact" video where many of the shot excerpts came from: kzbin.info/www/bejne/bYSloXeDo950mtk Enjoy!

[@lesterweinheimer665]

Even after 54 years of playing pool I still need these reminders. Thank you Doctor Dave. Your books helped me a lot also. Good to see someone that loves the game as much as me

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I'm glad to hear it. Continued good luck with your game.

[@davebattista9972]

Great videos Dr. Dave. I have a question...when I struggle with my potting I start to ONLY look at the object ball & not the cue ball. It seems to work but I know its not right. I dont get it! Any suggestions?

[@DrDaveBilliards]

@@davebattista9972 Thanks. Looking at the OB only is certainly better than looking at the CB only, but carefully checking the tip position on the CB is important. For videos and info on this topic, see: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/eyes/pattern/

[@barbarasteed3966]

I can relate to everything on the list 5or6 times.

[@danc3831]

Those that can..do. Those that can't..can teach. Well your teaching has many people including myself "doing". That is the ultimate reward for a teacher in anything. You ARE a teacher.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I like "teaching" and "doing," and each helps the other. I'm glad my "teaching" is helping your "doing" also.

[@jamminjames6463]

Timing in life is quite comical. I just got home from a league match, and it was the first one I lost this season. I get on KZbin and see this in my recommendations. Thanks Dr. Dave!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Did the video explain why you missed the shots you did?

[@mosesng6050]

@@DrDaveBilliards Yup, the reason I miss sometimes is that maybe I wasn't focused enough. Oh, and maybe my adrenaline is a bit too high.

[@jamminjames6463]

Absolutely it did! Lack of focus, bad aiming, a 50 year old table that hasn't been maintained, and overlooking the basic fundamentals. Thanks again for you videos!

[@JesusistheTruthWayLife]

I’ve Learned that when I second Guess my shot I miss. I’ve Learned to trust my gut. That’s one of the biggest things I tell other players. Thanks for the tips. Much Love.

[@rhyspedrick2226]

Yip. Second guessing you're first shot because you're nervous of missing and letting your opponent in. 😅losing to your 2nd choice safety shot hurts more than the 8/10 you took on and missed

[@paulromancampos8901]

Hi Dr. Dave! You're always on point when you make videos like this. We can see how much work you put on every video. My friend and I are practicing on a diamond table for 1 month now, and watching your work helps us a lot! Thank you for being so genuine. 😁

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I'm glad you like and appreciate my stuff. Thanks for the positive feedback.

[@BrianAllenKJV]

You have made and developed the absolute best instructional and informative pool channel on the entire internet. Thank you for all of the hard work and thoroughness.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Thank you, and you're welcome. I aim to swerve. :)

[@donjaun540]

Dr. Dave thanks. I am constantly trying to improve my game and watching your videos helps me. Thank you.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I'm glad to hear it. You're welcome.

[@ubozlee]

Yes, I have definitely missed balls to all of these reasons and one of my main reasons for missing is confidence in the shot I'm about to shoot. The shots I recognise and hit thousands of times, gives me confidence under any circumstance. Shots that haven't been ingrained enough in my subconscious are likely to fail. Obviously practice will give you the recognition you require and keep you in your comfort zone. Once you're out of that comfort zone, almost every shot becomes difficult.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

That's what excelling at any sport is all about. Confidence comes from trusting your skills, which comes from smart practice and hard work. Other "mental game" aspects can also help: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/mental/

[@sw1tchmast3r73]

All the ‘bad aiming, missing shots and scratching’, were pretty much my game in a nutshell. Until I started watching these videos and really absorbing and applying your fundamentals. I’m no pro by any means, but I’ve definitely improved a lot, and I’d like to personally Thank You for continuing to publish this amazingly informative content!! Anyone who honestly loves the game should subscribe to this channel and keep their eyes peeled for new videos. Good stuff Dr. Dave!! ☮️👍👍

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I'm glad you like and benefit from my stuff. Thanks for the positive feedback. I appreciate it.

[@rauldavila8632]

You have the best advice. No surprise your cue tip installation video was next level. Coming back after a 20 year break. Life happens sometimes. Very excited. Everyday I'm making progress. Still haven't ran a rack which is disappointing. I was pretty good in my 20'S. Learning the game all over again. I corrected several mistakes I was making thanks to your video. I'm now getting use to this low deflection que I recently purchased. I was so use to compensating for deflection I just kept missing. Now I love it. I can aim straight and get que ball control at the same time. That's the biggest difference between the two style sticks. Thanks once again. The video helped a ton

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I’m glad to hear you are finding my stuff helpful. Good luck with your game.

[@kenmortimer2091]

I really enjoy everyone of you videos , very helpful and informative . Thanks so much Dave .👍👏

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I'm glad to hear it. You're welcome.

[@lilmarco-qc5te]

After watching this video, I have never missed a ball and have ran my last 120 frames of 8 ball

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Wow! You're fast! :)

[@TonySteinbach]

Impressive since it came out 15 minutes ago

[@celestinebrewer8728]

Really

[@Jakeeliiot]

Bros cap😊

[@demelog1]

🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@stevewenger7428]

Easy for some of us to slide back into old bad habits; these reminders are necessary and very helpful. Thanks Doc

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Agreed (for players at all levels). You're welcome.

[@philvigil6128]

Growing up the old guys in the pool hall taught me alot if this...it cost you a bit but you learned alot... as you developed relationships the coaching became free and the wisdom lasted a lifetime on and off the table.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

The problem with the "old guys in the pool hall" is they sometimes promulgate old pool myths like these: kzbin.info/www/bejne/mZXPgqh7hsijiNU But they mostly have good advice (when they are honestly trying to help you).

[@lesterweinheimer665]

The part about the announcers saying someone got up during the shot has been a pet peeve of mine. You're exactly right they got up because they knew they hit it bad!

[@whitelion204]

So true. Pro players always know if it's a bad hit before the cue ball even touches the object ball, that's why they got up. Saying they missed because of fundamental flaws is just straight up bull crap.

[@whitelion204]

So true. Pro players always know if it's a bad hit before the cue ball even touches the object ball, that's why they got up. Saying they missed because of fundamental flaws is just straight up bull crap.

[@MatthewKirkum]

I absolutely love the call out on the commentators!!!!! So many commentators are backseat drivers to the point of completely missing what is actually happening, good call out man.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

In there defense, it is sometimes difficult to notice everything and call stuff live, but some commentators are definitely better than others.

[@jf5618]

After playing for several years almost daily, then not playing for 20+ years, I recently played. Needed this! ;-). Thx man and love the “I got lucky” sign!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I hope it helps. BTW, I got the "I Got Lucky" poster here: drdavebilliardtshirts.com/

[@xanh350]

Finally someone got it right as I've been saying this for years! I laugh hard when I hear commentator speaking of pro's saying "Oh he moved his body and that's why he missed" I kept saying over and over that it is clear to me that they moved BECAUSE they knew they missed. Finally someone got it right too, at 7:50 DrDave spoke of this and I'm glad I'm not the only one anymore. I can't emphasize enough that I knew for fact for years that their bodies knew that they missed instantly as they hit the cueball and thus they jumped/moved.......it is never the other way around as commentators keep saying. Jeez I hope you can educate them DrDave on an interview or on a match. Go try to commentate and educate these newb commentators man.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

That has bugged me for many years. I guess great minds think alike. :)

[@throwdini]

@@DrDaveBilliards I agree 100%, nay... 1000%, with you. I want to jump up and strangle a commentator when they say, "He jumped up too soon and missed the shot." Not at all. Our reactions are so fast and astute that within a microsecond of the cue ball leaving the tip you know you've made the shot or even worse, you know you missed it. As a result the player jumps up in response to knowing the shot was missed before cue and object contact.

[@DavidNYC83]

I always like to listen/watch this while driving to my leagues.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I don't like the "watch ... while driving" part, but I'm glad my vids (at least the audio) helps get you into the league frame of mind.

[@user-ts9ug9fu5d]

lol

[@chrismalups6747]

This channel is an absolute goldmine. Thank you for all thr knowledge.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I'm glad you think so. You're welcome.

[@johnwalding9457]

I haved worked on my stroke for a few years with all of my instructors including you Dr. Dave. i have been using the Rempe ball with the mighty x and my stroke had a tendancy to shoot a hair to the right. My Sensei has worked with me and has changed my stance many times and we used your video on finding my vision center which is in the center of my head. And after all of that i was still hitting a hair to the right. I even went and got glasses with the big wide frames for shooting pool. They seemed to help some and i can see the balls alot better but i was still shooting a hair to the right. so today he had me bend my bridge hand so i could be closer to the cueball and then he noticed that my elbow was tucked closed to my ribs when i shot. Now that i have adjusted my elbow away from my ribs i am hitting the rempe ball in the center now most of the time. We both watched and study your videos alot and my Sensei wanted me to ask you your thoughts if we have made the right adjustments this time.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

There could be many causes for this. The following resources should help you identify and fix the root cause: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/stroke/technique/ billiards.colostate.edu/faq/eyes/vision-center/ billiards.colostate.edu/faq/eyes/finding-center-ball/ billiards.colostate.edu/faq/drill/stroke/ Good luck!

[@markwys]

Always educational watching the Dr. The look of disbelief after 'missing' the shots is priceless.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I won't be expecting any Academy Award nominations, but thank you. :)

[@OscarGonzalez-vg3cp]

Good observation and the suggestion are good. Thanks for the video doctor

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I'm glad you liked it.

[@dennisotmaskin8906]

Outstanding coaching on some avoiding some key causes of misses. Thank you!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

You're welcome. I hope it helps.

[@Itmerock]

Wow, I didn't realize I did a few of these things until seeing you mention them. Great video

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I’m glad you liked it. I hope it helps.

[@roadshowautosports]

Wish I could be your student. You’re one awesome teacher! Thank you for helping me so much to improve the little skills I have! Came in from a underdog to a sought after player at work! Now everybody wants a piece of me!!!!! Gee, thanks Dr. Dave!!! Lol I enjoy much more playing today than in my whole life due to yours and a handful other dedicated content creators!!!!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I'm happy to hear you have enjoyed and benefited from my stuff.

[@jasonjoslin6493]

Cut induced throw can be argued by many due to length of shot if any due to aim and people believing in gearing of ball. Balls don't gear with spin if you sat a striped ball at any angle and cut it with any amount of spin the target ball will never spin off track. For instance use a stiped ball as an object ball and set it for stipe roll to a pocket and hit it for a cut at any angle and shoot. Slow motion the camera to see if the object ball spins of or rolls straight if it tracks towards a spin oblong you will have an induced throw anything else is considered a CB mishit. Dave your lessons have promoted more than excellent other than this subject and we appreciate the videos promoting pool and bettering the sport.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

FYI, I have good demonstrations of the no-throw gearing effect (including the stripe trick) here: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/sidespin/outside-gearing/ Check it out.

[@bobbycuesroadhouse2204]

I can’t tell you how much Dr. Dave has helped my game go from 300 to 550 Fargo

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I’m glad to hear it. Keep that trend going!

[@tomkrusely8998]

The look on your face after a miss is priceless. Great video

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I won't be expecting any Oscar nominations, but thanks. :)

[@STLRecon]

One of the issues I have, and see in others, when it comes to dropping the back arm during the stroke is due to starting to stand up before you're done with your stroke. Practice a count to 2 after your stroke to break this habit (yes there are some shots you may need to get your bridge hand and cue stick out of the way, but that's seldom).

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Good point. Staying down and still during and after the shot is key. I like to tell people to be a "relaxed statue." You want to be perfectly still, but you don't want to be tense.

[@thefunbot]

going back over a bunch of your videos...thanks for explaining things so well!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

You’re welcome. I have almost 500 videos online now, so you have a lot of viewing ahead. Enjoy!

[@Shastavalleyoutdoorsman]

It's so intuitive for me to put my shoulder into everything I do. I'm having a heck of a time not dropping my elbow.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

If you want help stopping it, see the "How can I get rid of elbow drop?" section here: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/stroke/elbow-drop/

[@VIDEFX]

Now am ready for better shots. Thanks.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I hope it helps.

[@eddiecolon3941]

Hello Dr Dave. I am a fan, I bought the VEEB set last year. I enjoy watching your KZbin videos, always something new to learn.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I'm glad to hear it. Good luck with your game!

[@GenerousJohn]

All good advice that I need to follow as I find it harder to make easy shots.

[@user-jw3dh3cg1g]

Thanks Dr. Dave, you have really helped my game.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

You’re welcome. I’m glad to hear it.

[@williesak9603]

Super job, clearly & thoroughly explained, well appreciated !

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Thanks! I'm glad you liked it.

[@recklessthor4]

Played against myself and had this playing in the background...really helps

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I’m glad to hear it. Next, try this one, and say DAM after every good shot: kzbin.info/www/bejne/l6etZ5KiYtV7l7s

[@recklessthor4]

@@DrDaveBilliards hell yea

[@borisdanyukov8267]

Thank you so much for this video. Yesterday I played with my friend and barely lost to him in pool. Today after watching and noting these advices not only I have won easily but also managed to break and run once. Thank you again

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I'm glad to hear it. You're welcome, and continued good luck with your game.

[@dirtriderdog]

Dr. Dave is the best.......

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Thanks!

[@sarmad458]

This is fantastic work here Dave I’m glad your video came up on recommended!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Thanks. I’m glad YT is smart with its recommendations at times. :)

[@sarmad458]

@@DrDaveBilliards Earned yourself a subscriber, very intriguing stuff here!

[@TheVagabond116]

Very good reminders. Thanks, Dr.Dave.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

You're welcome. We all need reminders of this stuff, even top pros.

[@dolittle6781]

Glad I didn't miss watching this excellent video...

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I’m also glad you didn’t miss it. :)

[@rwatson2609]

Great tutorial Dave.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Thanks.

[@donm1547]

Great one, Dave!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Thanks! I'm glad you liked it.

[@OffGridMadMan]

Greetings from 🇬🇧 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 Dr. Dave! I love your channel and as a good amateur 8 ball pool and snooker player many years ago, I'm finally able to have an 8 ball table at home and am waiting with great excitement. Iv been watching a lot of your videos and love your "old school", no nonsense delivery of info. Although I'm sadly not getting a 9 ball table with the huge pockets (not enough room) your videos have helped me remember the fundamentals that I seem to have forgotten. I will play 8, 9 and 10 ball regardless and wanted to thank you for all your brilliant content 😀

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Thank you for the supportive comments. I appreciate it, and I’m glad you like my stuff. Have fun with the table.

[@OffGridMadMan]

@@DrDaveBilliards it's my pleasure Sir, your videos are pure gold for anyone from a beginner to a top professional. I did forget to say how impressed I am with you as a player too, I imagine you've played at a high level. And thank you, I think I'll spend every waking moment practising, playing against myself,etc.,, when it comes! What a wonderful time to be alive! 🙌👍

[@bboyv5287]

Thanks Dr. Dave your videos are amazingly helpful. 👌🏻👌🏻👌🏻

[@DrDaveBilliards]

You're welcome, and thank you. I aim to swerve. :)

[@scottisitoro3953]

I know you've stated keeping your cue as level as possible is the way to eliminate mistakes, but there are, of course, exceptions. I'm certainly not at (though I'm getting there !) Earl Strickland's level. But he, and I mean shot after shot (purchased match dvds from accu-stats) is 99% butt end elevated. Shorter bridge for control people keep preaching, as well.? Earl's bridge must be between 12"-14" every shot; hangers, draws, everything. I literally spent 4-5 hours recently, with a 10 minute snack break halfway through, lengthening my bridge and elevated the cue. This is no joke, here. My draws, even 5-6 footers, and cue ball control improved immediately. I am bucking the trends being taught, with respect to you and others for all of your great work. Look for me to rattle the best Tour players very soon.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

We always need to elevate the cue to clear over the rails (and any balls that might be in the way), especially when our grip hand is at risk of hitting a rail (hurts) or balls (foul). For all the reasons why it is "best practice" (done by most pros) to keep the cue as level as possible, see: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/cue/elevation/ For bridge length info, advice, and "best practices," see: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/bridge/length/

[@scottisitoro3953]

More great information...thank you. A former Tour player I am fortunate enough to practice with 2-3 times/month told me very bluntly...and I may add accurately; "It always boils down to 2 things. What style (faster, bridge length, etc) makes you most comfortable and confident at the table and what gets results.. I've already had tough players say to me, "Man, I've never tried a long bridge like that. I've never raised the butt end on every stroke. (not just rail shots). I am extremely comfortable, which leads to confidence and gets the desired results.@@DrDaveBilliards

[@jasonnieuwenhuis335]

Thanks again. I’m a first principled thinker too, just more towards average intelligence than you. I’m pretty sure I’ve learned 99% of what I need to know. Keeping it all organized during the game is the thing that’s left I guess. Any kind of distraction drops my level of play.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

The key is to use all your knowledge and experience when planning a shot, but clear your mind (and don't think at all) during stroke execution (assuming you have well-practiced and solid fundamentals).

[@joslinnick]

I was having this conversation with my friend at the pool hall. I was pretty sure that it was better to focus your eye on the object ball rather than the cue ball, but my friend thought that focusing on the cue ball was better for making shots. Once I started focusing more on the object ball, I think my shot started becoming more consistent. That may be confirmation bias, but it's just what I noticed.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Practically all good players focus on the OB during the final stroke. If your friend still has doubt, send him here: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/eyes/pattern/

[@deansultani5433]

Great video, thanks Dr. Dave.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Thank you, and you’re welcome. I aim to swerve. :)

[@ihaveaboyfriendmeh1026]

Thank you so much. My cue always rolls over the cue ball or bounces the ball. I didn't realise it was my elbow until I watched this.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

For lots of advice on how to fix this problem, see the "How can I get rid of elbow drop?" section here: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/stroke/elbow-drop/

[@furqaanshah5570]

Thanks! The mistake I used to make was at 6:38. This really helped

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I'm glad to hear it. Thanks for the comment.

[@michaelmccullar2982]

Thank you Dr Dave I appreciate your help

[@DrDaveBilliards]

You’re welcome. I aim to swerve. :)

[@MemphisMike901]

Have been watching videos daily trying to pick up tips. I am just 2 weeks back into playing after 30yrs. I am shooting 2-4hrs daily right now and rarely playing others, just focusing on shooting straight and cueball control. About the 10th day things were starting to make sense. I have noticed when focused, a smooth stroke with follow thru is working for me. I cannot blast or really punch a ball in with accuracy. Today i played someone with skill level just above me. I gave away 3 games at the end “choking” on what were easy shots to drop the 9 ball, but at least did not get the table ran on me like a couple other players did 😅. Overall, enjoying the game. Did change my shaft to a 12.5mm from a 13mm which seemed to help as well.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

If you want more help locking in your fundamentals, the videos and info here might be helpful: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/fundamental/ Enjoy!

[@t1mmsquared946]

Very strong start I’m liking and sharing

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Thanks. I have a lot more where that came from here: kzbin.infovideos Check them out.

[@abrehamhaile7722]

That was a nice aspect . Good job doctor.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Thanks.

[@omardeantes1128]

Helpful advice especially on when I think I have a easy shot and miss

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Even pros lose focus and miss “easy shots” at times.

[@mmafightcoach]

Great advice which works for snooker here in England too!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I’m glad you liked it. Most fundamentals stuff applies to both games.

[@user-xx1gq7nr9o]

This video is truly amazing!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Thanks! FYI, many more of my top videos can be found on my "Dr Dave's Best Pool Instruction" playlist: kzbin.info/aero/PLH9d4KFY28XtWHkg5DKDUfpbI0ry48bsr Check them out.

[@boogiemanspud]

One small note on spin not effecting the path of cb. It’s true, but often what seems like someone using unnecessary spin might just be them accounting for deflection or purposely using it to throw the ball a bit to negate deflection. It’s not on every shot but it’s useful to know how to do so.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Agreed. There are many situations where sidespin is necessary or useful (like throwing a ball in to hold the CB), as demonstrated in all the examples here: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/sidespin/examples/ But the problem is people who use sidespin when there are better options (for example, aiming properly with no sidespin).

[@2klv-nhatkynguoihanovietna946]

Thanks for sharing useful information. have a good day!👍😄

[@DrDaveBilliards]

You’re welcome. You too.

[@tidoperez8281]

This is the first of your videos I have seen and it was excellent. I look forward to checking out your other videos. BTW, I like the drama you spin when you demo a bad shot, very funny. Keep up the good work, and thaks.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

If you check out some of my better videos, check out my "Dr Dave's Best Pool Instruction" playlist: kzbin.info/aero/PLH9d4KFY28XtWHkg5DKDUfpbI0ry48bsr And if you want to see the most recent of my 450+ videos, go here: kzbin.infovideos And if you want to see my future stuff, subscribe to my channel and turn on bell notifications. Enjoy!

[@hoopin_with_jay8634]

The biggest reason I miss shots is because they serve beer at the bars.

[@jerryhughes4256]

Thank you Dr. Dave.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

You're welcome. Thanks for continuing to watch my stuff.

[@Asplera]

Thank you. So useful for a rookie.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

You’re welcome. Agreed.

[@fallonstone408]

I just found you! Love it!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I'm glad you found me. If you want to see more, I already have 450+ videos on my channel here: kzbin.infovideos

[@DAWEAP1]

This was just what I needed

[@DrDaveBilliards]

We can all (even pros) use reminders about this stuff periodically.

[@Ak-47ram]

Don’t hit it & quit it

[@yapayzeka930]

Best tutorial ever

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Thank you! I actually think my "DAM" video is even more important to playing well: kzbin.info/www/bejne/l6etZ5KiYtV7l7s

[@ashleecahusay3105]

6:59 thanks for this because that is always my problem when I'm playing

[@dljeung]

Thanks Dave! I have made all of these errors in the past.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

We all do (in the past, present, and future) at times, even the pros.

[@rogercarlson2330]

im just getting back into it, i now wear glasses, its so much of a getting used to it thing. you give me hope..

[@DrDaveBilliards]

FYI, I have good advice for eye glasses here: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/eyes/glasses/

[@evanwincovitch8519]

Thank you Bill !

[@MrKeith75]

Thank you !!! Pros almost NEVER jump up during a shot!! The immediate after the stroke cuz they know they missed or hit the shot bad right away. It seems like “they jumped up on the shot” is just the go to line weather true or not.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Agreed.

[@bicivelo]

Your face when you pause at 5:17. HAHAHA! I see that all of the time with newer players who think they are better then they are. :-) Classic Dunning-Kruger effect where little knowledge leads to greater confidence. 🙂 Great vids. Thanks!!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

@@bicivelo I don’t expect any Oscar nominations, but thanks.

[@bicivelo]

@@DrDaveBilliards 😂

[@bicivelo]

How do you worn a baseball hat backwards you definitely would have received several nominations! Possibly taken best actor award! 😅😅

[@mikepartridge339]

Best pool lesson of my life! Thanks bro👍

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I'm glad you think so. You're welcome. I aim to swerve. :)

[@BabbittdaWabbitt]

Good stuff. Love your fake surprise reactions. Thanks.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Thank you, and you're welcome.

[@jnickels83]

Love the face you make on the intentional mess up shots 😂 but I’m digging these. Not shooting seriously in a few years and a spinal fusion these are great refreshers as I’m getting back into it!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Thanks. I hope the advice helps. BTW, you might also benefit from my stance advice videos: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/stance/

[@HikeColorado]

This is great video Dave. On my league the other night I gave two games away at the end by choking on the 8 ball. My team mate said that I lost confidence and hit the 8 ball a little too light and it just didn’t have the normal self assured PUNCH to pop into the pocket. Just another reason why we sometimes miss shots 😞

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Good point. Using a "less than confident" stroke can definitely cause a miss.

[@HikeColorado]

Yeah, you have to be focused and sure of yourself and just hit the ball. It happens on a lot of games I see on league night. Folks just missing shots that they almost always make. Can't beat yourself up, just move on right.

[@stephenmamphiwa8741]

you have shared a very helpful information,some of things we were not even aware of...thanks with you we can become pros of pool table

[@DrDaveBilliards]

You're welcome. I aim to swerve. :)

[@WechaiMoua-ww3jw]

Wow, thank you very much Dr. Dave for such those useful tips for missing balls. In playing pools, the player needs to focus on lots things more than most peoples think it should be including patiences, temper controls, body movements and quality equipments (tips and shafts are very important) must be provided properly in order to improve the games. Heavily lifting can cause the muscles tight and strokes off badly. Also frustrations are the most bad things for inconsistant to focus the aimings that cause the most missing balls in pool games.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

You’re welcome.

[@OscarBurman-kt2rs]

Totally agree to the fact that lifting your head is a symtom for knowing that you missed. Thank you!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Yep. Good players lift their head because they know a bad hit right away. They don’t miss because they lift like many commentators say.

[@davekat4680]

Thank you David 🎱

[@DrDaveBilliards]

You're welcome.

[@ianwatkins6202]

Hi Dr Dave😊 I'm a english snooker player from across the pond 😊😊Just to say i really enjoy your pool videos! I have played 8, 9 and 10 ball in the past and have really enjoyed the game 😊😊Best wishes to you! Ian, UK

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I'm glad to hear you enjoy my stuff. Best wishes back at you.

[@glockasauruswrex6362]

@6:40, dropping the elbow...the WTF cracked me up! See it a thousand times at the pool hall🤣😅😆

[@DrDaveBilliards]

It is possible to master any technique. If the elbow drop is consistent in timing and amount, and if it doesn't "chicken wing" out when it drops, there is nothing wrong with elbow drop, especially if it happens mostly (or entirely) after the hit. However, most people can improve faster and be more effective if they keep the shoulder and upper arm still. For more info, see: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/stroke/elbow-drop/

[@glockasauruswrex6362]

I probably do similar things...I'm an APA 3. So much to work on...thnx Dr Dave ur videos really help!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

@@glockasauruswrex6362 Even top players make some of these mistakes at times.

[@marthalavigne1651]

Really good info in this video!!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Thanks!

[@MrJajaron]

Thanks doc . Great video

[@DrDaveBilliards]

You're welcome, and thank you!

[@bigpoppapump620]

That’s great Dave. I laugh every time you look at the camera pretending to be confused why. 😂

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I do too. :)

[@Hawtload]

in bowling when you're approaching the lane and swinging the ball, you need to keep your shoulder still and let your arm swing straight back and forward like a pendulum. If you allow lateral motion in your swing, you're gonna throw it off target or in the gutter. The same consistency and accuracy in the execution of your stroke is crucial for pool.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Agreed. I'm an avid bowler also, and I often see parallels between the sports, especially with the mental game. BTW, check out the bowling physics podcast video I did with Neil deGrasse Tyson: kzbin.info/www/bejne/mIq3iJ-Ei559a9E

[@patrickwhitehead7584]

I LOVE listening to Danny DiLiberto commentary. He's like the billiards equivalent of John Madden,

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I like it.

[@terrygreer2021]

Thank you Dave! Very helpful!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

You’re welcome. I’m glad you liked it.

[@utubeblackbat]

Very informative, thank you

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I’m glad you think so. You’re welcome.

[@bryantaylor9874]

While I'm no Pro I am a very high skill level amateur player and he is 100% correct I know if I made the ball and got position the moment the tip of my cue hits the ball. I'm correct close to 100% of the time and when I'm wrong I missed by the smallest of margins. I don't know if every player develops this ability but it's pretty cool to have!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I think that is true for any decent player with good technique and observational skills.