Top 10 POOL SHOTS Amateurs Play Wrong … and How to Play Them Right

Dr. Dave demonstrates shots amateurs (non pros) play wrong along with how to play them right. If you want to improve your game, it is important to understand and master the following principles and shots included in this video:
- Intro [0:00]
1.) Don’t Scratch [0:15]
2.) Make Pockets Play Bigger [3:01]
3.) Use the Rails as Brakes [4:32]
4.) Master the Table Center [5:44]
5.) Control Rail Cut Shots [7:36]
6.) Avoid Banks Unless Very Easy [8:45]
7.) Elevate Smartly [9:14]
8.) Break Out Smartly [10:10]
9.) Don’t Dribble the Rail [10:38]
10.) Detect and Avoid Double Hits [11:50]
This video is part of Dr. Dave's Top 10 video series:
• Top 10 Pool and Billia...
If you are a "novice" or "beginner" player who might not know pool terminology and the basics of the game, you might want to instead start with the videos and info here:
billiards.colostate.edu/tutor...
and here:
billiards.colostate.edu/tutor...
And if you want to look up definitions for any standard pool/billiard terms or phrases (including gambling-related stuff), go here:
billiards.colostate.edu/gloss...
For more information and demonstrations dealing with specific topics in this video, see the following resources:
- 90º rule: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/s...
- 30º rule: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/3...
- 3-times-the-angle (trisect) system: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/d...
- CB tweener shots: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/c...
- throw tutorial: billiards.colostate.edu/tutor...
- 45º rule: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/c...
- rail cut shot CB control: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/r...
- drag shot with spin intensification: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/s...
- double hit detection and avoidance: billiards.colostate.edu/FAQ/f...
- online glossary of pool and billiards terms and phrases: billiards.colostate.edu/gloss...
Subscribe to Dr. Dave's KZbin Channel:
kzbin.info...
Follow Dr. Dave on Facebook:
/ drdavebilliards
Show your Support (click on the donation button at the bottom of this page):
billiards.colostate.edu/
Purchase Dr. Dave's Instructional Videos and Merchandise:
DrDaveBilliards.com/stream/ (stream or download)
DrDaveBilliards.com/ (physical DVDs)
DrDaveBilliards.com/products/... (product info and purchasing advice)
drdavebilliardtshirts.com/ (T-shirts, polos, mugs, posters)
Find Answers to Any Pool Questions:
billiards.colostate.edu/faq/
Look Up Definitions for Pool Terms and Phrases:
billiards.colostate.edu/gloss...
Get Your Pool Diploma:
billiarduniversity.org/
Attend a 3-Day Pool Boot Camp or Take a Private Lesson:
billiarduniversity.org/instru...
drdavebilliards.com/instructi...
Learn More About Dr. Dave:
billiards.colostate.edu/dr-dave
Good Luck With Your Game!!!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

If you are a *"novice" or "beginner"* player who might not know pool terminology and the basics of the game, you might want instead to *start with the videos and info here:* billiards.colostate.edu/tutorial/intro/ and here: billiards.colostate.edu/tutorial/fundamentals/ And if you want to look up definitions for any standard pool/billiard terms or phrases (including gambling-related stuff), go here: billiards.colostate.edu/glossary/ *Table of Contents:* - Intro [0:00] 1.) Don’t Scratch [0:15] 2.) Make Pockets Play Bigger [3:01] 3.) Use the Rails as Brakes [4:32] 4.) Master the Table Center [5:44] 5.) Control Rail Cut Shots [7:36] 6.) Avoid Banks Unless Very Easy [8:45] 7.) Elevate Smartly [9:14] 8.) Break Out Smartly [10:10] 9.) Don’t Dribble the Rail [10:38] 10.) Detect and Avoid Double Hits [11:50] *Supporting Resources:* Dr. Dave's Top 10 video series: kzbin.info/aero/PLH9d4KFY28XtrkjqZMKZc3uB4Y5sWCjW6 90º rule: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/stun/90-degree-rule/ 30º rule: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/30-90-rules/30-degree-rule/ 3-times-the-angle (trisect) system: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/draw/trisect/ CB tweener shots: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/cue-ball-control/tweener/ throw tutorial: billiards.colostate.edu/tutorial/throw/ 45º rule: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/cue-ball-control/45-degree-rule/ rail cut shot CB control: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/rail-cut/ drag shot with spin intensification: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/sidespin/drag/ double hit detection and avoidance: billiards.colostate.edu/FAQ/foul/double-hit/ online glossary of pool and billiards terms and phrases: billiards.colostate.edu/glossary/ *Subscribe to Dr. Dave's KZbin Channel:* kzbin.info

[@BlurryZurry]

The time you took to make this comment was remarkable. I salute you 🙏 was so helpful

[@DrDaveBilliards]

@@BlurryZurry I’m glad. It is just a copy and paste of the video description, which I created as I worked on the video.

[@mastod0n1]

This guy is so good he can intentionally hit bad shots perfectly.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

To be honest, I don't always hit the shots perfectly the first time. Sometimes video editing is required. This is especially true with the "bad shots" that are often more difficult to execute perfectly than the "good shots."

[@DrDaveBilliards]

@István Bencze But to miss or scratch exactly the way you want for the camera ... not always so easy.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

@István Bencze For more info about me, see: billiards.colostate.edu/dr-dave I am a professional instructor, but I play a decent game also.

[@konstantinbradicich688]

The perfect sandbag lol

[@pepperwestwood]

I’m really good at hitting bad shots too :/

[@clintonwilcox4690]

"Have you ever seen an amateur do this?" I'm pretty sure I've done all of those.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

... most amateurs have. Even most pros do them on rare occasion.

[@RawOne911]

Because amateur is being used as an insult by people whenever it's what you are until you've invested quite a bit of time and practice. It may take awhile to cross that line from amateur to skilled player

[@zanethind]

Lol same

[@1985davidwalker]

"Have you ever seen an amateur do this?" I have a name...

[@DrDaveBilliards]

:) !

[@Sc0rch91]

"Have you ever seen David Walker do this?"

[@trreptiles7297]

@@Sc0rch91 lol

[@Sams911]

bar none, best beginner video on pool on KZbin! PLEASE make more stuff for us amateurs.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Thanks! FYI, I already have a ton of good stuff for beginners and "amateurs" here: kzbin.info/aero/PLH9d4KFY28XvXZ9aZvLZTmCEq7pw7pPUz and here: billiards.colostate.edu/tutorial/ Check out the videos on these pages.

[@Sams911]

@@DrDaveBilliards yeah, I figured that out just now.... binge watching them... BTW, so the pool halls are all closed here in the SF area, what can do to practice? Use my bed? a dinner table? any Ideas?

[@DrDaveBilliards]

@@Sams911 I have some advice here: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/advice/practicing-with-no-table/ Good luck with "practice."

[@saintmichael2759]

Great video, but keep in mind if you're teaching amateurs, then explain the terminology. They probably don't know. What is draw? What is tangent? What is a pocket hanger? What is spin? What is table roll-off? What is a stunt shot? I love how you demonstrate all the possible right/wrong outcomes and illustrations with visual lines. Some really great stuff in this. Thank you sir.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Thank you. Concerning terminology, I already have tons of great online resources that cover all basics. Here is a good starting point: billiards.colostate.edu/tutorial/ I also have an online glossary that defines all pool terms and phrases: billiards.colostate.edu/glossary/ And the links in the video description above cover every individual topic in this video in detail. Thanks again for the suggestions and supportive comments.

[@ChristopherDaSilvaiscool]

You could use a dictionary for a few of those bud.

[@comebackkid9015]

Shouldn’t amateurs know this terminology already? This is all pretty beginner stuff.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Comeback Kid90 If they don’t, they can learn it quickly with the links provided.

[@isaacflett1321]

I think you're confusing amateurs with beginners.

[@jessechaskey7205]

Every time I'm going thru a slump, I watch this video. Dr. Dave has many pointers and drills to make you a better player. Love the videos

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I'm glad to hear it (except for the "slump" part). Good luck with your game!

[@Hadesyungin]

You said finesse so I had to drop that like

[@exproskier]

To players of ALL levels: Dr Dave is a badass. A true gem to anyone who really wants to drill down into the "how and why" of billiards. I schooled with him and was in awe; not because of what I already knew and how I could sharpen it a bit more, but because of what I didn't know, and how THAT affected my game. He is such a geek. A wealth of knowledge. A teacher of teachers. And, just a cool dude. Get as much as you can from this man. Vids, books, DVD's. Then pay it forward by sharing it. Grow the game. ...and Dave, if you happen to be reading this one day; thank you. (Even though we still have each other's email.) LoL Miss you my brother!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

exproskier Thank you ... and you’re welcome. I don’t recall your name (is it Mike?) but I do remember you well ... the only pro mogul skier I’ve ever taught. I hope your pool game has continued to improve. Maybe we’ll see you at our Advanced Boot Camp some day.

[@MrSantxs]

Its 4am and I have a final in the morning. What am I doing?

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Good luck on the Final. Watch more when you're done.

[@Forced2]

Good luck!

[@mohamedk7012]

I actually saw your comment now at 4am and i have test tomorrow 😂😂

[@nathanwhitten8950]

It is 4:23 AM. What am I doing? I don't have a final. I have an MS in math and have retired full-time teaching. I wish I could shoot pool like the best.

[@jerrymiller7708]

Santos best thing is not playing me.

[@w.stevejoynerskeet9313]

Thanks for those pointers. Wish I had a pool table to practice on.

[@mchnhed]

No Billiards Hall? Drive to the next town.

[@legnend8195]

Instead of ehining. Go buy a table...

[@scorcoz]

Load up a game of GTA

[@whisperofdoom3144]

@@legnend8195 I can't believe he never thought of that. You are such a smart person.

[@onenessseeker5683]

I would swap you my bran new table for a 250 motorcross bike

[@dlwdon]

I have played for years and I think this video provides some great information that 90% of amateurs do not know. Great job!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

dlw don Thanks!

[@navtektv]

Love the sound of billiard balls hitting and sinking into the pocket. Heaven!

[@po4RP20361]

You might not watch snooker but listen to the into from the channel snooker planet, you sound like me so I feel you will appreciate it, unless of course your already familiar

[@navtektv]

@@po4RP20361 love to check it out. Pool is my jam but I've been known to turn on a few of O'Sullivan's matches and waste a few hours watching the mastery at work. Definitely love the acoustics of snooker matches since they seem to be more quieter crowd than pool. Thanks for the suggestion I'll definitely check out the channel.

[@po4RP20361]

@@navtektv Youll find plenty of good Ronnie compilations there too, have fun

[@soundautomatic1]

Even just mastering the treatment of hangers would improve the average bar player dramatically. Good content.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I agree. Thank you.

[@stuhazskill4217]

Much appreciated. Thank you very much. I recently have a bought a pool table for myself and have only recently learned how to backspin. These videos are greatly improving my shots. Cheers. Keep up the good work

[@DrDaveBilliards]

For more help with backspin, see the videos and info here: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/draw/advice-and-drills/

[@thadonis3516]

Demonstrates the importance of shot selection. Not just which ball to go for but best ways to hit it. Great video!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Thanks. I'm glad you like it and see the importance.

[@brookdenning8606]

All videos are excellent for an amateur like myself. I now know how to position cue ball in the middle of the table. These tips are easy to understand and extremely beneficial .Many thanks Dr Dave.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I'm glad you liked it. Be sure to check out all of the videos in my Top 10 series: kzbin.info/aero/PLH9d4KFY28XtrkjqZMKZc3uB4Y5sWCjW6

[@pot_kivach160]

Great work, Dr. Dave! And thank you for putting it all up. Your detail orientation and dedication are to live by.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

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

[@ev6558]

I'm by no means an expert at pool, I'd say I'm an intermediate player at best. But in my experience the stuff you are saying in #2 is what I consider the best advice for newer players. No other piece of advice contributed more to my improvement as a beginner than being told to relax and hit the ball softer. There are times when you need some power, like to make a really strong draw shot, but I think any beginner player is better off starting with a really soft touch and then working their way up to more powerful shots as they start learning about English.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

"Softer is better" is definitely good advice for beginner players, but my "Top 10 Things POOL PLAYERS Do Wrong … and How to Fix Them" video covers stuff that is more important, IMO: kzbin.info/www/bejne/hIirpod-eZl1sLs Enjoy!

[@markwys]

I watch this video several times every year and learn something each time. Thanks Dave!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

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

[@arthurcooper9981]

Thank you. This is very helpful to me!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

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

[@mrosaine]

Great video, Dave! Very informative and extremely descriptive! I’ll be using these tips!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Thanks for the positive feedback. I hope the tips help your game.

[@truehines637]

Another great video Dr. Dave, I am grateful for this channel.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Thank you for the positive feedback. Good luck with your game.

[@GillianSwagston]

Thanks Dr. Dave! I watch this video every now and then as a reminder when I do something stupid. Great advice all around

[@DrDaveBilliards]

You're welcome. If you want more reminders, also watch the other videos in my "Everything You Need to Know" playlist periodically: kzbin.info/aero/PLH9d4KFY28XvAa708C1BPbOYctSaWAIuF Enjoy, and good luck with your game!

[@GillianSwagston]

@@DrDaveBilliards I’m going to watch everything you have posted and I’m sure my game will improve significantly! We all appreciate everything you post

[@sintar02]

Dr. Dave, I'm not even finished with this video, but I had to go straight to your site to check this trisect system you brought up in shot 5 here. By the end of that trisect system for aiming draw shots video, there were tears in my eyes. I always knew that understanding exactly where my drawn cueball will go will HUGELY change my game - I've been compensating for that lack of knowledge for a very long time, and I've been playing for over 20 years. After that video alone I consider you a crown jewel in pool instruction and the game overall. Thank you so much!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Thank you for your kind comments. I'm glad I was able to bring a tear to your eyes on this Thanksgiving Day! Good luck with your game!

[@Gloriagal78]

Love your videos! Even though it would involve more time, the slow motion shots are an immense help, especially the close ups of where the cue tip hits the ball, as well as when the angle is shot from your perspective.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Gloria 78 Good suggestions. I’ll try to keep that in mind in future videos. I’m glad you like my stuff.

[@payazokoki]

I felt insulted by the amount of times you called me an amateur

[@DrDaveBilliards]

payazokoki I feel insulted when I do some of things at times too. I’m also an amateur.

[@jamesgallagher3317]

DrDaveBilliards Where I play the pockets are a third the size of those crater pockets you use. Wow I wish I played with crater pockets. Mind you my girlfriend has a crater pocket I do like to rattle my cue ball around in but it’s not pool

[@jakerobbins8101]

@@jamesgallagher3317 oh no

[@HJules-cw6fb]

LOL Super amateur

[@sonshinelight]

Egads!

[@michaelgabriel1828]

Thank you f putting this video together, I appreciate the amount of work it takes! This and other videos have helped my game and given me much to work on.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I'm glad to hear it. Thanks for the positive feedback. I appreciate it.

[@stonedagain5191]

You explain all of that very well indeed.

[@jess33ad]

Great work Dr Dave

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Thanks!

[@Snowbag1998]

I really enjoyed these top ten videos. Thank you Dave !

[@DrDaveBilliards]

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

[@sandorsmassageservices]

Awesome info thanks for sharing.

[@AhLiang08]

Masterclass for free. Thanks Dr Dave

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I'm glad you think so. Thank you, and you're welcome. I aim to swerve. :)

[@AhLiang08]

@@DrDaveBilliards others just scratch the surface, you jump right in. 👍👍 Will watch your videos whenever I have a break, because you deserve subs and views en masse.

[@DrReplaySC2]

You sir, are a legend. Best pool videos available.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Dan Harris Thank you! Be sure to check out my other recent “Top 10” videos here: kzbin.info/aero/PLH9d4KFY28XtrkjqZMKZc3uB4Y5sWCjW6

[@elalamioussama2995]

I thank you for the great work that do each time on your videos, such a great lessons !

[@DrDaveBilliards]

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

[@tamniall]

Thank you for sharing your knowledge Dr. Dave. 🙏🏽💯👌🏽

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Tam Niall de Guzman You’re welcome. I aim to swerve. ;)

[@Bobtree6853]

About 7 yrs ago my game was stuck at a league rank of 4 for forever. I stumbled on your book and it helped me take my game to a rank of 7 in a short time. I like your method because it's repeatable.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I’m glad to hear it. I hope your game continues to improve.

[@bardiaarab]

Thank you so much. So helpful

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Bardia Aliabadi You’re welcome ... and thank you.

[@OG_BlackBazooka]

Thank you very much for this video I’m a beginner or I’d like to think so haha.

[@NickNackItaliano777]

Watched some of your videos and took your advice on board and tbh it has really improved my game since I went from being on a mostly losing streak to winning a whole lot of games. Thank you so much!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I'm glad to hear it. You're welcome! I aim to swerve. :)

[@mikepark3219]

one of the best educational videos ive seen. ty!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Thank you! And YW. I aim to swerve. :)

[@alexandpool]

Thank you so much for creating such a good content

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Alex B You’re welcome ... and thank you. I aim to swerve. :)

[@vcoolpool]

Thanks Dr. Dave, this is an excellent video. I'm at fault for doing at least one theses mistakes when I shoot. By watching your stuff I get a mental notes while shooting and I'm able to make corrections. Not to say I make all my shots but when I miss or just get way out of pattern and position I'm able to see why. Thanks again for all the time and effort you make explaining to us about this wonderful game we Love,

[@DrDaveBilliards]

You're welcome, and thank you for the positive comments. Good luck with your game!

[@eddiecolon3941]

Great Great video. I'm reviewing this video because I'm gonna play tonight on an 8ball team. Dr. Dave , I follow you for 2 yrs. Last year I bought your VEEB collection. I really think I'm making better shot selections because of it

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Thanks. I'm glad to hear you like and benefit from my stuff.

[@blackbuttahfly2582]

Thanks for this video i am a beginner in a pool league I know its all about fun but perfection too and I want to better myself in all aspects. I will continue watching for latest videos to help me with my game👍

[@RyanM-ke2gu]

Great videos. Only played in bars before but we just replaced our dining room table w a used Brunswick Hawthorn. Figured I should probably try to figure it out ;-) You've got the best instructional videos I've found. Thank you!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Ryan M Thank you and you’re welcome.

[@okkrom]

Great video, as usual! If you are looking for ideas I have a suggestion. Something along the lines of ; "Ten exercises to improve position play/safeties/potting etc".

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Elias Bargee My next video will cover Top 10 strategy mistakes, and it should address your suggestions.

[@candewan6197]

Great teaching, thank you!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

candewan Thank you ... and you’re welcome. I aim to swerve.

[@christianktm2910]

The examples are helpful and the target on the white ball gives you a good view of point. Very insightful video.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Thank you. I'm glad you like it.

[@kraken1473]

Full of facts. Nice

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Thanks.

[@playinJ30]

the 45 degree center table rule is an "aha" moment for me for sure. Fantastic stuff Dave.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I'm glad to hear it. FYI, more info and videos on this rule can be found here: billiards.colostate.edu/threads/position.html#45_degree_rule

[@IIIWhiterIII]

Very well explained. Thank you for your video!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Thank you ... and you're welcome! I aim to swerve. ;)

[@raygaither9369]

Dr Dave. Sir, if I had seen this video when I was in my 20s i probably would have played pool for a living. These are the simple things that I never figured out on my own and was never taught. That piece sign 30 degree and the 45 into the rail for center or through center table is pure... not magic but science. Damn, I wish I could still see like I used to. Great video Dr Dave!!!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I wish I had known all of this stuff before I started playing also! I'm glad you liked the video.

[@stonedagain5191]

The one thing you can't teach in Pool is how to deal with pressure. But if you can learn to treat every shot like it doesn't matter and as if you were practicing, you'll find pressure can be overcome. It's entirely in the mind.

[@simplelangperorock]

To all aspiring pool players: This is a helpful video.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Thanks. I agree that many novice players can benefit from this and my other recent videos.

[@IAmPrendo]

Wow thank you so much.This is what I've been looking for 👍

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Im glad to hear it. You’re welcome.

[@SuperGregore]

excellent information, much appreciated

[@DrDaveBilliards]

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

[@andreaswinkelholz6694]

Cool Tipps Thank you

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Thank you ... and you're welcome.

[@-Twotonepony-]

I love how he keeps saying "have you ever seen amateurs do this?" I keep cracking up because all I can hear is this pool God saying "yo guys, and what about when little bitches do this shot? Ha!"

[@devilzwork3123]

Excellent video. Concise and informative. Thanks

[@DrDaveBilliards]

You're welcome. I'm glad you liked it. Be sure to check out the other videos in my "Top 10" series here: kzbin.info/aero/PLH9d4KFY28XtrkjqZMKZc3uB4Y5sWCjW6 Enjoy!

[@justinsanity501]

I just learned so much in 13 minutes. Great video! Here I am thinking I am playing these shots well and now I’ve learned about these angle methods to predict ball position. Thank you so much for this, this was exactly what I needed to help me get to the next level of play.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I'm glad to hear it. Thank you ... and you're welcome.

[@Chr.U.Cas2216]

Good grief, and I thought I'm a good amateur. Thanks a lot for teaching.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

One reason pool is such a great game is there is always more to learn and more to improve.

[@Chr.U.Cas2216]

Dear@@DrDaveBilliards Yes Sir, absolutely. 2) Although I'm not able to see spatial I will practice what you are showing in your great video. Best regards. Postscriptum: Just today I bought me a used billard table.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

@@Chr.U.Cas2216 If you want more help, more videos and info on each topic is available via the links in the video description. Good luck with your game, and have fun with the table.

[@Chr.U.Cas2216]

Dear@@DrDaveBilliards Thanks, I've already realised the links because of your hints while video runs. 2) I hope that I will have fun, Sir. Thank you. I also owe an old good working pin ball machine from the 1970's (called "Flipper" in Germany) and an even older slot machine. My 1994 Vmax motorbike (only 2500mls on it) will also find a place in this special room. And maybe all my vinyl records and music stuff. The white steering wheel from my first (very used bought) 1972 Mercedes Benz and other devotional/memorable stuff also. Best regards.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

@@Chr.U.Cas2216 Sounds like you will have an awesome "man cave" when you are done. Awesome.

[@maxxsee]

i learnt so much holy shit good video doc!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

maxxsee I’m glad to hear it, and thank you.

[@donaldw9205]

Thanks for your videos. I'm an amateur, but I'm slowly picking up my game.

[@randallburns4946]

Awesome job! Thank You!!!!!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Thank you ... and you're welcome!!!!!

[@Twobarpsi]

Great info! I never knew there was a science to pool. Been playing 30 years just by feel and luck!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

The "science" isn't necessary to play well, but understanding a few basic principles can certainly help somebody learn and excel faster.

[@ryanbaldah7001]

This is actually pretty helpful👍👍

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I'm glad you think so.

[@cf23575]

Fantastic..There's soooo much to learn..Thanks

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I'm glad you like it. If you want to start the learning, check out the links in the video description above. Good luck with your game!

[@altarik]

Hello Dr. Dave.. thank for posting this.. I learn new things from this.. and as always you help me learn and develop in Pool because of you.. thank you sir.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

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

[@AOMartialArts]

Teaching amateurs... "Max draw" "Stun shot" "Tangent"...... Dang. I didn't know how much of a noob I was. :/ Great instruction though!!

[@Heleninhalinda176]

He has a lot of videos explaining all of those, wich you should watcg first

[@Hockeyguy8541]

Americans like to make needlessly complicated terminology for stuff lmao

[@dennisnord1895]

Great stuff . Do you have more ?

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I have a lot more. First check out my entire "Top 10" series: kzbin.info/aero/PLH9d4KFY28XtrkjqZMKZc3uB4Y5sWCjW6 And for videos, articles, and info on any topic, this is a good place to start: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/

[@robertwaid3579]

Great stuff Dr Dave, your videos and lessons take me back to the days when my dad was coaching me. Thanks again.🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Your dad must have been an awesome coach! :)

[@colbyg1784]

Great video! No nonsense, just great info

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Colby G Thanks!

[@AdamGuitar87]

Dr Dave, please make more videos like this one! Your last video (top 10 things pool players do wrong) helped me a lot! Greetings from Poland :)

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I'm working on another today. Stay tuned.

[@sonshinelight]

Just buying a 9' pool table going to have to enroll in some hard knocks classes.

[@mrrolandlawrence]

awesome video. ive been playing for a while and not regular player but every single one of the fouls mentioned in the video ive done time and again... will be watching this video a few times to try and improve my game!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I'm glad you liked it. Be sure to check out the other videos in my recent "Top 10" series here: kzbin.info/aero/PLH9d4KFY28XtrkjqZMKZc3uB4Y5sWCjW6

[@robertwaid3579]

Thank you for the notice, of my comment. It was greatly appreciated. Also I will look forward to seeing your videos, @ tips. Thanks.🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️

[@DrDaveBilliards]

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

[@beerhippie777]

Amazing how he hit those white lines perfectly EVERY SINGLE TIME! WOW!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Yep. The magic of video editing (and decent shooting). :)

[@ashleytaktsang4897]

I am impressed by the fact that when he wanted to he scratched. I cant do that, every time I try to scratch I fail, every time I don't want to I scratch XD

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Ashley Taktsang Video editing helped on a few of those shots (I.e., I didn’t always do exactly what I wanted on the first attempt).

[@legnend8195]

As the guy said. He edited, likely very much since he is needs to double check if he is doing it right.

[@soundautomatic1]

Work on stroke consistency (start with MOFADAT). When you can be wrong in the same way consistently you'll learn much faster.

[@doronsimon5205]

Taught me so much in one video! Super excited to play now and watch more of your videos. You rocked it dude and broke it down so much info for me in an awesome way! I will look into what all the terminology means, but as a beginner having you put an asterisk or something in the video editing would've been helpful. Again, great video and thanks for the help

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I'm glad you liked it, and thanks for the input.

[@ballofwax9yards]

Fascinating

[@charliefox3157]

Great video Dr. Dave, I swear you were watching my last match at league to get your examples.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Charlie Fox Funny. I’m glad the video might be helpful.

[@jasonkeith9317]

Great tips Dr. Dave. I've been playing for a long time and I still have trouble with these types of shots. Have u been watching me play???

[@DrDaveBilliards]

You're not alone. Watch novice league players provided most of the inspiration for this video ... and there was lots of inspiration! :)

[@jamescampbell9587]

As usual you have given us a great informational and entertaining video. Thank you.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Thanks for the positive feedback. I appreciate it. Be sure to check out all of my recent "Top 10" videos: kzbin.info/aero/PLH9d4KFY28XtrkjqZMKZc3uB4Y5sWCjW6

[@Sirgrisdonk]

I struggle a lot when it comes to the cue ball being directly on the table-side, the section of the video in which presented within '7) Elevate Smartly' helped a lot and I have been looking for tips on this for a while. Thanks for the video; it helps a ton, despite me knowing quite a large amount of the techniques presented. Keep up the good work!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

You’re welcome ... and thank you.

[@unclewreckum4977]

I find it amazing that someone could watch this clip and actually hit the dislike. I mean this is a gr8 video as all of your videos are imo. Hard to fathom the level of ignorance that most of society has fallen into. These videos are very useful with good camera ability. Even gives you an visual on where to hit the Qball. Uses grammatically correct english. To the point, no fancy visual affects. No telling how many people you have actually helped in life regarding pocket billiards 🎱 especially if that person has tunnel vision. Gr8 stuff your doing here with these videos brother, they will be here long after your gone to. If there was an area of pocket billiards i wished someone would do it is the mental aspect of the game. Imo it is drastically overlooked by the majority of players out there. I've run into sooooooooooo many players that la k confidence and just don't believe that if they play DECENT and SMART pool that they can beat a player that runs tables on a regular basis. They don't understand that every game the balls roll different. Imo the mental aspect of the game can be like a wall of death for a lot of players. The reason they will never get n e better no matter how much they practice. Maybe throw in a few road stories in there from throughout the years :) Gr8 job sir

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Thank you for your kind post. I am also baffled why someone would click on and view a video like this and feel the need to click on the dislike button. I often wonder what they might be thinking. Maybe they just don't like my personality or the fact that I am educated. :(

[@AB-od8cv]

there are many trolls who clicks negative, just because. I love watching but have no "cue" how to play. Ah.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

@@AB-od8cv I guess it makes them feel powerful, in a sad sort of way.

[@klixtrio7760]

@@DrDaveBilliards Little late to the party, but I know for a fact some of the dislikes come from people who think they dont need this knowledge. They think they have everything figured out, you cant teach them anything otherwise they get pissed.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

KlixTrio They are probably the ones that need it the most.

[@alexraptis6795]

Very informative, thank you

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Alex Raptis Thank you ... and you’re welcome.

[@pubgmobilepakistan6667]

Useful video

[@dzarren]

Hi Professor Dave. In general, and for all cases on a pool table, slower speed makes the effective size of the pocket significantly larger. The same is true for snooker pockets, although I have noticed that past a certain upper threshold of speed, the pockets starts to become even more accepting of poorly aimed balls. Of course in snooker there are always instances where slow speed allows the ball to drop much much more easily, but here is an example where I think if the ball took the same line at a slow-ish speed, it would not have went in, but due to the sheer momentum of the ball, and the lack of hard corners on the pockets, the ball just sort of rammed its way into the pocket, partially pushing the rail out of the way. At 33 seconds, this shot clearly would never have gone in at a faster speed, showing that slow speed drastically increases pocket size. But at 1:15, on the brown ball, I do not think the ball would have gone in at a moderate speed, had it come down the exact same line. kzbin.info/www/bejne/jpyzaXecbtqMmdE (Already linked to 33 seconds, 1:15 of same video is also of interest.) So in general, at least on a snooker table, I think the function of pocket size to ball speed is not purely monotonically decreasing, but instead it starts out at some absolute maximum, then decreases in size as speed goes up, and then increases slightly again at very high speeds. Any thoughts on the matter? Thank you for your time and effort in educating us all. EDIT: I think I should defend my position on the ball at 1:15 not going in at low speeds. My experience with snooker pockets is that at a moderate speed, any contact with the near rail will cause the ball to be rejected. I can't find an example right now, but I have seen many instances of shots that just just grazed the near rail and were not even close to going in.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

At certain angles, the effective size of pool pockets can be slightly larger at faster speed, but this effect is not very significant. For more info, see Bob Jewett's articles here: billiards.colostate.edu/threads/pocket.html#size

[@johnhoush4366]

When hitting slow, you might also be more careful to limit your use of English. The ball is a lot more susceptible to throw/carry at slow speeds.

[@randommadness1021]

Spot on.

[@jesuschristislord2111]

Hey man! U 'r so good teacher of pool. U should to play against someone shouldn't u?! Definitely yes. Good luck:D

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Thanks. Believe it or not, I actually play pool ... and against real people at times. :)

[@RandyBurnettTalks]

@@DrDaveBilliards But only at his own house on his own table. I would love to see U call someone an Amateur in a real pool hall. Ha Ha! You could learn all about house sticks.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

@@RandyBurnettTalks I'm an amateur! Everybody who is not a professional is an amateur.

[@toonsis]

a BIG help to me, thanks

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I'm glad to hear it.

[@moefritz6225]

Awesome video, Thank you.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

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

[@BenVentures07]

To avoid double hits just use 2 fingers in holding the cue and hit it with a minimal force. -Mike Massey

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Benny G. For shots requiring more os a stroke, four other methods are demonstrated in the NV videos listed here: billiards.colostate.edu/FAQ/foul/double-hit/

[@GSXRKLLR]

haha fake news all of my shots end up about an 8th of an inch off the rail, but seriously thank you for all the great information.

[@pixxelwizzard]

"Have you ever seen an amateur do this?" Proceeds to play exactly like me.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I guess that means you are an "amateur." :) But that's not so bad since all non-"professional" players are amateurs.

[@khoofsirfallahka2935]

A player who can hit faulty shot so perfectly is a legend. Followed u

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Thanks. Although, I don’t hit every shot perfectly the first time. I edit out the bad attempts.

[@khoofsirfallahka2935]

@@DrDaveBilliards u r awesome nd honest too. Hope i can play like u soon

[@MrJdsenior]

"Have you ever seen amateurs...?" I think I've seen PROS on at least one occasion do EVERY ONE of these things. LOL I saw Tommy Kennedy practicing at my local hall once, and he had a really easy short shot to the corner. He missed the whole ball!...stood up, and said "I missed the whole ball!" I laughed and said, makes me feel a bit better about some of the stupid things I do, anyway, if a guy at your level can do that. He laughed again. Good points here to come back to occasionally, especially if you're a senior. Sometimes I think I've forgotten far more than I know, to extend the standard comment a bit. ;-) I point people struggling with one thing or another to your site all the time. It usually takes about 1 min in most pool tutorials to hear something really stupid claimed, I've never seen anything in any of your vids I could dispute. Scary.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Agreed. Pros are human and sometimes make the same mistakes "amateurs" make. They just do it much less often! Thank you for the kind words about my site. I appreciate it.

[@shawng4886]

Dude your knowledge and skill is ridiculous! Damn you're good! I could shoot with you for hours just learning. Awesome video. You break down the game like no one I've seen before! I used to be a pretty good shot til I stopped playing for years... Started playing at 13 and just stopped when I was like 20-21... Not sure why honestly as I've always loved pool... But I'm getting back into it and will probably try a league somewhere when I get back to form!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Thanks for the kind comments. If you like this video, you might also like the others in my recent "Top 10" series: kzbin.info/aero/PLH9d4KFY28XtrkjqZMKZc3uB4Y5sWCjW6 Check them out. I hope you have fun if you join a league.

[@mrpooltable9374]

Thank You Sir

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Matthew Petersen You’re welcome. I aim to swerve. :)

[@CameronSharpPottery]

Great video. Just subscribed. You’re a good teacher

[@DrDaveBilliards]

CameronSharpPottery Thank you. Be sure to check out my other recent videos in my “Top 10” series here: kzbin.info/aero/PLH9d4KFY28XtrkjqZMKZc3uB4Y5sWCjW6