I've been wondering about pool assistance literature, and I'm curious about if it will help my game. I am wondering where I would categorize myself in skill level, I usually run four to six balls and then shoot into a hole because I make a mistake in my shape; otherwise, I can run around 10 balls in straight pool – Bow, WA

It is hard to put a number on skill without playing in the APA. Determining a skill level is more than just making balls. Anytime time you read or get in-person help with your game you still need to spend time with practice. Practice is the only thing that will improve your game. Getting better at pool isn't a secret, it takes time and practice. – Ray

Why is it when I address a long cut shot I do not have to adjust my stance; but, on a short cut I have to move in my stance while I am down in the stroke position? – Athens, AL

You see the line of the shot better on long shots. If the object ball is close to the cue ball it is hard to see the shot line and the impact point of the cue ball. – Ray

I’ve been hearing discussion lately about ball deflection and throw. However, I've never read anywhere about the interaction of these two effects. It seems to me that the throw effect should compensate for deflection, at least to some degree, and for some combination of speed, distance and angle the two should cancel eachother out. Does this make sense? – Powell, OH

Don't let yourself get wrapped up in the marketing tools of pool. The effect is different for every player. This is something cue makers use to cloud the minds of new cue buyers. Let it go and practice the affect on your shot and don't let the industry warp your mind. – Ray

I play on both an 8 and 9 ball APA teams. In 9-Ball, I usually have a good visualization of the run-out after the break. However in 8-Ball after the break I can only maybe visualize the next three to four shots. Unless I get lucky and something opens up I will play bad position after those shots. What subtle clues do you look for in trying to determine the 8-Ball run-out if it is possible? – San Diego, CA

In 9-Ball the balls tell you how you will run-out; in 8-Ball you have to tell the balls how you will run-out. You don't have the numbers to help you. I like to think of it like a paper route; I look at the 8-ball and think of it as my home. I then look around and find a way to deliver the paper so I don't jump from one end of the route to the other. Pick a ball and make your way back home to the eight. – Ray

I’m 14 and interested in taking pool lessons. I was wondering if you could recommend what I should do to find someone. – Newton, MA

Look up billiards retail stores in the yellow pages and call the Pro-Shop and ask for info on lessons. They have a lot of great players in your area. – Ray

How long do I need practice if I ever want to become a pro? – Fulton, MS

If you have to ask how long you’re not going to become a Pro. I used to go into the pool room and not think about time. I would get wrapped up into trying to get better, time would fly. One hour would pass and then 10 would be gone and it would feel like I just started working on my game. If you want it; it will come. – Ray

In a missed bank shot, why does the object ball leave the bank at the exact opposite angle it hit the bank, but leave the opposite bank at a 90 degree angle? – Kannapolis, NC

If I understand the question it has to do with spin and speed. You can change the angle from that the ball comes off the rail with English and speed. If this doesn't give you what you are looking for break it down and study the affect of the shot with different English. – Ray

What exactly is low English? – Golden, MS

In real pool low is any part of the cue ball below middle. If you want the cue ball to come back the length of the table you would hit the cue ball lower and harder. If you only need it to cue back one foot you would be more around center ball. The best I could give you is keep trying different spots until you get it right. – Ray

I have an excellent defensive game. I will shy away from more difficult shots and play great safeties. Generally, that would be a strength but I am getting a lot of pressure to be more offensive and start running more tables. At what point does playing defensively hurt your shot making ability on harder shots? – West Palm Beach, FL

Any time you let your opponent to the table bad things could happen, a lucky roll can cause you to lose the match. The best D is a great Offense. Don't go crazy and try to run out every time, but take a few chances if you can put the match away. – Ray

I often can play to the skill level of a better player but for some reason I can not play to that same caliber when I play someone I should easily beat. What can I do to help this problem? – Vancouver, WA

You need to play with the same attitude with whom ever you are trying to beat. For me, I would tend to wait for the lesser player to make a mistake and not play like I wanted to win. This might be the same for you. Every time you give the other player a shot, you may loose. – Ray

I'm having problems making a good jump with my jump cue I just can't seem to get the cue ball in the air; how could I get it going in the right direction? – Eden, NC

Try using your playing cue to jump balls while you practice. This will help you understand what it takes to make a good jump shot. You really don't need to use a jump cue on every jump shot if the balls are far enough apart, use your playing cue. You will also be able to play better shape on the jump shot with a longer cue. – Ray

How does English take affect in relation with stoke/cue weight? – Destrehan, LA

You need to let up on your stroke on some shots. Playing a shot isn't always a power stroke. That is one of the things that makes pool one of the hardest games to master. The weight of the cue will have little effect on your stroke and English. A heavy cue lets you roll the cue ball around the table with less English. Most players with power strokes use a lighter cue. – Ray

How do you get the cue ball to travel around after the follow through of the shot? – Chicago, IL

You need to use English to get the cue ball to move. If you want to follow a shot, cue high on the cue ball and stroke threw the shot. If you need the cue ball to go forward off two rails use high and a little right or left. This is the art of pool and the more you play the more you will understand the basics. – Ray

I've been having trouble for about 2-3 weeks with shots rattling out of the pockets. I know I have been concentrating on the shot as much as possible and I can't understand how I can miss so many shots so close. Sometimes I will run 5-6 balls and miss a shot so close that I didn't think I could get the ball that close and it not go in. Any suggestions for a practice routine? – Raleigh, NC

If you put a good stroke on the shot and miss it has to be your stance. You might be moving on the shot. The easy shots or missed because you don't think you can miss. Players move to the next ball before they pocket the easy shot. – Ray

Being left-handed, I find it hard to draw the ball back to the right. Regardless what english I place on the ball it pulls to the left. What can I do to correct that? – Irvington, NJ

It sounds like you follow through pulling to the left. To correct this place a 20oz. soda bottle on a table and try to stroke through the mouth without hitting the edges. When you are able to stroke through and hit the bottom of the bottle your left pull will be gone. – Ray

How do you shoot a shot when the cue ball and object ball are both frozen against the rail? – Shreveport, LA

If both balls are froze to the right hand rail, use right hand English. The spin on the cue ball will make the cue ball hug the rail. Speed is really important for this shot so practice it a little. – Ray

When I shoot a match I can make incredible shots, but when I leave myself a straight-in shot I usually foul it up, any suggestions? – Green Cove Springs, FL

The key to getting better is to know your weak points. If you know you screw up straight-in shots, shoot a lot of that type of shots when you practice. The more you see the shots you don't like the better you will feel about the shot in your matches. – Ray

Can you give me some advice on how to stroke my cue straight? How tight is the grip? Should the wrist be straight or bent? Should my shoulders be perpendicular to where I am aiming? – Delafield, WI

You want to hold the butt of the cue with some control, like holding a bottle of soda. I like to put a little pressure on my finger around the shaft to have a good feel when I make contact with the cue ball. You want to have good balance on your stance and make sure you are conformable when you are over shot. – Ray

Do you think that shooting with a cut shoot is better than try to bank it? – Lawton, OK

Most of the time it is better to cut the shot than to bank. You do have to be able to control the cue ball on each shot. I will bank a ball only to get shape and only if I fell like it is my only option. I like to look for a good safe or look for a two way shot "will I get a safe if I miss the bank?" – Ray

I have been playing for almost a year, and I have shown drastic improvement. However, I seem to have a problem understanding one concept of English; I have been told that when you use right English, and the cue ball bounces off the rail, it goes left, is this true? – Steelville, MO

Think about it, that is what pool is. If you use right English what is the cue ball doing? Spinning from the effect on the English. If you use high right it will hit the rail and go to the right. If you use low right the cue ball will back up hit the rail and go left. Try to see and understand the English in you head before you shot and it will help you improve even faster. – Ray

I've been playing pool for five years. I have great control of the cue ball and I have no problem pocketing balls. How can I increase my mental side of pool, other than practice? – Bronx, NY

Try to put positive thoughts in your head while you are playing. Overcoming bad rolls and good playing from you opponent is the next step. Having a good frame of mind to step up and run out after a bad roll or the other player just ran five racks is something not everyone can do. I like to sit and think about running a rack of balls and when I'm in a match try not to let negative thoughts sneak in. – Ray

I am an APA 6 in both 8 and 9. My girlfriend is a 3 in both. When we try to play together, she gets frustrated because I can run out the rack. I want to help her get better, but this way doesn't help. What would you recommend for me to help her out? – Indianapolis, IN

Have you girlfriend play other players that play better than she does. This will help her learn and take the pressure off of you. When she starts to understand more about the game she will appreciate your ability. – Ray

I’ve been missing shots that should be easy to me; I don’t feel my concentration is there. Do you have any suggestions? – Midland, MI

Make sure you want to play or practice. If you really don't feel like hitting balls, try something new that will help you focus. I like to play golf or throw darts to train my mind to zone in. – Ray

Is it possible for someone to learn the game on their own with no help? – Kenosha, WI

Yes, and no, you need to be around players that know more than you in the beginning. The players really don't have to tell you what to do, you need to watch and try things on your own. You will have a slower time learning on your own but it can be done. Buy tapes of old matches and this will speed up the process. – Ray

I have been playing pool most of my life. I can’t seem to work out the angles on the bank to well and my grip seems to differ each time I shoot. Can you help? – Spring Hill, FL

You have the answer in your question. You need to play, play and play some more. The more you play the more your mind will take in the info. If you feel like you aren't getting anywhere go to the pool room and watch the better players. This will help you see what can happen in different spots on the table. Having you own table helps but you need to be around good players to fine tune your game. – Ray

I am considered to be the best player around my home town but I run into a problem with my nerves and it distracts me so bad I can’t concentrate. I get nervous about 2 hours before my tournament can you help me with this? – Weatherford, OK

Sit in a recliner or lie on the bed and see yourself playing good pool in a tough tournament. Watch how you run out and handle the pressure of the big event. Try this 30 minutes a day and you will see a big difference. – Ray


This past session I found my game has disappeared and I've lost my concentration, what can I do? – Arvada, CO

Your problem is you have to want to play – body and mind. Then your mind has to want to win. If you are burnt out, try a little change in your practice time. If this doesn't help, try to play in your head 30 minutes before you go to bed, relax and let it happen. When you are able to relax and run out in your mind your body will follow. – Ray

How can I keep my stroke straight? – Havertown, PA

Get a soda bottle place it on the table and practice stroking through the mouth of the bottle. When you can strike the bottom of the bottle without hitting the edge of the bottle your stroke will be straight. – Ray

When playing 14:1 continuous, I shot ten balls in and then when shooting the eleventh I scratched and make but made the ball, do I lose all of the scoring for that inning (the other ten balls) plus a minus one and spot for the pocketed eleventh? – St. Louis, MO

No, you minus the foul and spot the ball you made on the foul. It would be 10 balls made -1 for the foul 9 balls on the total. – Ray

What is the head ball? – Golden, MS

The head ball would be the ball on the spot when the balls are in a racked position on the spot. – Ray

What does soft and hard hit mean? Which joint is better for what type player? Which do you use and why? – Orange County, CA

A soft hit is a hit that takes away some of the impact of the cue ball. The harder the hit the more you will feel the impact of the tip on the cue ball. You can soften a hit using different types of tips. The steel joint will give you a little more cue ball control and an implex joint should help you draw your cue or move the cue ball a little easier. This is totally up to the player, if you have a strong hard stroke lean a little more to the harder hit. If you like to spin the cue ball try a medium tip or soft tip. This is all up to feel and it isn't something I would not be able to say to you, "hey you need to use X not Y." Go with what feel s good to you or the set up that you feel makes you play better. Confidence is more important than the hit. – Ray

Whenever I try to draw the cue ball, the cue ball either stops or draws very little, although i try to hit hard and low. Is it because of technique or does the cue play a part too? Also, when i try to do backspin, the cue shaft vibrates after contact with the cue ball. Is this normal, or is it because its not a good cue? – New York, NY

Technique has a lot to do with the draw shot. If your draw shot is a little weak, see if the tip has a nice crown, like a nickel or a dime. Place the cue ball about one foot from the object ball and try to draw the cue ball as much as you are able to. If your draw shot is a little weak and your tip looks good it could be the tapper of your shaft. I like to use a 12.75 mm shaft with the tapper about 16 inches down. This gives me a little more whip through the cue ball. If this doesn't work try a different cue and if you are able to draw the ball on a long shot burn your cue. – Ray

I see pool as a lifestyle for me. Can you give me some info about practicing and exercises to take me to the next level? - Nicosia, Cypress Greece

Work on drills like the ghost or drills that keep you sharp. I like to practice drills that challenge my stroke or aiming. Punish yourself for not getting your drill right. I add balls to the drill until I get it right. This will make you concentrate better. If you decide to add balls to a drill don't stop until you win. - Ray

I want to improve my game on bar boxes. I just brought a 9ft Brunswick; will this help on the smaller tables or hurt? - Hardwick, GA

The bigger table will help with your shot making and will improve your stroke. If you want to really improve on a bar practice on both. The patterns are a little different on a bar table. You will use the side pockets more on the bigger tables. - Ray

I play on a 6-foot table with standard ball size, and when I come to the 8-footer, I find myself being a much better player than others. Could it be because of the pocket size? - Arvada, CO

The rule is moving to a bigger table you should miss more shots, because of longer shots. Playing on a little table it is harder to play shape. I think your position play is better than the other players you have being playing. - Ray

How do you make a stop shot and a draw shot? - Burtonsville, MD

For a stop shot you need to feel around with the middle to lower middle of the cue ball. The draw is shot basically the same thing but lower on the cue ball, and on the draw you need to make sure to maintain your stroke speed threw the cue ball. - Ray

I play on a 6-foot table with standard ball size, and when I come to the 8-footer, I find myself being a much better player than others. Could it be because of the pocket size? - Arvada, CO

The rule is moving to a bigger table you should miss more shots, because of longer shots. Playing on a little table it is harder to play shape. I think your position play is better than the other players you have being playing. - Ray

How do you make a stop shot and a draw shot? - Burtonsville, MD

For a stop shot you need to feel around with the middle to lower middle of the cue ball. The draw is shot basically the same thing but lower on the cue ball, and on the draw you need to make sure to maintain your stroke speed threw the cue ball. - Ray

How should you practice? I normally just rack'em up and play it like i would a normal game, trying to run out every game and playing safes if needed. Also, do you think playing with people of a lesser skill level constantly is harmful to one's game? - Pittsburgh, PA

You wouldn't want to always play with skill levels under yours. I like to run out balls and really work on the cue position and not so much shot making. - Ray

I have problems staying consistent, is there a way to stay consistently at the top of your game? - Wheaton, IL

To become more consistent you have to work your mind and body. When you practice and you start to get tried or bored, focus and push through for longer practice sessions; this will help you focus better from start to finish on upcoming matches. - Ray

I need to clarify a couple things on the 10 frame practice exercise. Here's what I think I know; 10 points per frame, 1 per ball & 2 on the nine, ball-in-hand to start after the break, minus 1 on a scratch but what about a foul? What do you score if you make the nine on the break? If you make a ball and scratch, do you count the made ball? Do you score only 2 points if you combo the nine off the one ball on the first shot? Get the clubs warmed-up. - Blacklick, OH

All fouls are -1 and if you miss or foul during the run out it is -1 add up the balls you pocketed. You don't get credit for a ball if you foul on the shot. Nine on the break, spot the nine and play on. Nine on a combination is your option. The nine doesn't stop the run if you want to continue to pocket the remaining balls. The clubs are hot, hot, hot. - Ray

Do you offer private lessons and how much do they cost? - Evansville, IN

Yes, I give lessons. The cost is $50 per lesson and you most do a block of five. - Ray

After a 7 year interrupt I am back on the game, what will be the best exercise to get my skill back and improve it in a short time? - Germany, FL

Play and practice all games, straight pool for basic shots and 9-ball to bring your stroke back to from. Welcome back and good shooting. - Ray

Lately I've been having an awful time pulling my arm to the inside on follow-through causing me to miss even the most routine shots I've made thousands of times. How can I gain more consistency? - Warrensburg, IL

Somewhere you lost your comfort level on this type of shot. I would set up about 100 of the shots and pocket balls until you stay down and follow through; this is the bases for every shot and when your confidence is gone go back the basics. - Ray

I have a problem with seeing the right angle on the shot. I get really confused on how to be consistent. - New Albany, IN

Take the time to look at the shot from the line of contact to the pocket. Get a good feel for the contact point. When getting into your stance for any shot, find the contact point from behind the cue ball and walk into the line on the shot and fall into your stance. This will help you be more consistent on all shots. - Ray

I practice every day about 2 to 4 hours and on my league nights about an hour in the morning then 1 hour before league. When I practice, the shots seem to come easy and consistent, but during league I seem to have trouble being consistent. Do you have a answer for this? - Danville, IN

Play in more matches or in tournaments. It will help you pocket balls when they count most. - Ray

I have been in Iraq since January and have not been able to play since I left. I was wondering if jumping right back into competitive playing would get me back to the level of play that I have come to expect from myself. Can you give me some ideas? - Winchester, KY

The best thing to do is practice and play matches that mean something. This will jump start your mind to concentrate and in a few weeks you will play better than you did before you left the game. Keep your head down and the game will be here when you get back. Joining a League is probably a good idea, the APA does have a handicap system so you won't be overrun by the competition; it might actually help you get back into your game quickly. - Ray

I am 14 years old and I guess you would say that I am a little past beginner, and I love playing the game, but I don't know how to use English and use the diamond system on the pool table. Can you help me Ray? - McClure, PA

I would say only about 10% of the pros really know the diamond system. You need to keep asking questions and work on what other players try to tell you. I didn't say better players because you will find that even if you can beat the player they still might have a pointer that will help your game. Always keep an open mind and work on each pointer, use the ones that work for you and keep looking for things to help you get better. English is practice, practice and more practice. - Ray

You have mentioned playing straight games to improve cue ball setting and drills. What exactly do you mean by straight pool? - Laurel, MD

Straight pool is 14.1. You start with a rack of 15 balls, like 8-ball. The game is continuous; you pocket any ball in any order until there is only the cue ball and one other ball. Re-rack the 14 balls and try to pocket the remaining ball and breakout the other racked balls for shots. You count each ball as one point and you go to 50 100 or 150. The fist player to reach say, 150 wins. This is very basic over view I would go to your local pro shot and get the written rules. - Ray

Can you give me a drill or a way to work on ball control and speed for good position play? - Danville, IN

Try the "L" drill. You line up 15 balls in a corner from middle top diamond to middle side diamond. Take ball in hand and pocket the balls in roll it one corner. - Ray

I play every day practicing 9-ball. My problem is that I can't always put the nail in the coffin; any advice for practice drills of any sort? - Floral Park, NY

Practice 10-ball in the same way you play 9-ball. It will help with you carpentry! - Ray

I am a skill level 6 in both 8 and 9 ball. While I am continuing to improve in my entire game, draw gives me the most trouble. I am inconsistent, even taking in to account the speed of the table. Sometimes I have great control over how much draw I want, then sometimes I am way off (too little or too much). What is the best way to correct this? - Portland, OR

I would practice on a 9-foot table; this will give you more feel for the draw shot. Going over longer shots will help fine tune the stroke for the draw stroke. - Ray

How do I control the draw on my cue ball and not bring it back too far? - Chatham, VA

That is why great players are great. You have to have a good feel of the speed of the table and the rest comes with practice and feel for your stroke. - Ray

I just started playing straight pool and was wondering if you could give me some tips on the opening break, and successive breaks when the balls are re-racked. When I try to break up a re-rack, the ball tends to freeze to the rack and I have no shot. Also, do good straight pool players ever call one of the balls in the rack? - Columbus, OH

I like to hit the right back corner ball and have the cue ball hit rails and come back to the left bottom corner. Make sure the balls are tight in the rack so the balls come out good; if this doesn't help try to let up on the speed. Yes, good players call balls out of the rack and the good players don't take chances on that type of shot. If they call one out of the stack I would bet its dead. - Ray

What is the best way to teach someone how to play? - Waldorf, MD

They have to want to get better. I would have them practice drills and have them work through fatigue. Doing something over and over is a very good way to cut down on thinking during a match. It lets the player, play and not worry about what they should or shouldn't do. - Ray

What is the best way to up your odds of getting a 8-on-the-Break? - Blue Grass, Iowa

Hit the second ball with a little low English. This will get you better action on the eight and will give you a better chance of making the eight ball. - Ray

Almost every time I break, I scratch; what am I doing wrong? - Poughkeepsie, NY

Where are you scratching and what game or you playing? In nine ball, most players scratch in the side pockets and in eight ball the bottom corner pockets. Make sure you hit the rack in a straight line from where you are breaking and if that doesn't help work on your speed; a little softer or harder to shorten up the English on the cue ball after impact. Practice your break and try to see the different affects you have with the change on the speed. - Ray

How do you put bottom English? - Metter, GA

You need to stroke through the bottom of the cue ball. Try not to lose speed through contact. - Ray

When I try to get a power break I tend to fly the cue ball off the table, what can I do to correct this and still have a power break? - Miramar, FL

Make sure you hit the head ball square, and make sure you use low English. - Ray

Can a foul be called before the break? I moved the balls with my hand asking for a re-rack. A foul was called on me; I lost the break and the match. - Chicago, IL

I have never seen or heard of that before; if you didn't start the game with the tip of your cue it hasn't started yet. Bad call. - Ray

Can the shooter hit the object ball with the cue ball while the cue stick is still in contact with the cue ball? Some one told me this is a legal "push shot". - Huntington Beach, CA

Only if the object balls are touching or kissing, and then you have to use a shorter stroke. - Ray

I am currently at SL 6 in both 8 and 9-ball. The only time I have to play is during League one night a week. How can I become a 7 without practicing during the week? - Charlotte, NC

Try to imagine you're playing. Lie on the couch or your bed and play in your mind. Break the balls and try to run the table in your head. It works. - Ray

Say your opponent has a ball that is balancing by the pocket, and he shoots a ball, and steps toward the next ball, and the vibration of him walking makes the balancing ball fall in the pocket, what is the rule here? - Flint, MI

You replace the ball in the same position. - Ray

I can't figure out what I'm doing wrong on my draw shot. I've tried hitting in all sorts of places on the lower half of the cue ball but it doesn't come back to me. Can you tell me how to get a good draw shot? - Houston, TX

Try to gain speed threw the impact and don't let the cue go past 6 or 8 inches. Do that for a while until you get good back spin and then work on a longer follow threw. - Ray

Can you tell me how to avoid missing a straight shot? - Princeton, KY

A straight shot is not a shot you like to have until it is on the winning ball about a foot away from the pocket. You might be trying to do too much with the shot. If you are straight in you have fewer options for shape. If this isn't the reason for your misses try to make sure you stay down and take good aim and stroke threw the shot. The shot might be straight in, but you still need to stay down and put a good stroke on the shot. - Ray

Is there a special way to hit the balls on the break so you can make the 8-ball in on break? - Iraan, TX

The eight will move more if you hit the second ball back of the spot ball. The more you can get movement on the eight the more chance you have to the eight on the break. - Ray

1) Is it legal to sink the eight ball in the kitchen, with ball in hand, by bouncing off the center pocket edge? 2) To pocket the eight ball legally, can you hit the rail first before hitting the eight ball? 3)Do you win if you pocket the eight ball, by first hitting the rail, then squeezing between the eight ball, and your opponent's ball, hitting both simultaneously? - West Indies

1. That is a bad way to play the game of eight ball, and in my view it would be just as good as hitting the end rail.
2. Yes, if you call the pocket it would be a winning shot.
3. Ties are to go to the shooter. It is almost impossible to have a tie. - Ray

I am at a point where I am not getting any better. I play every other day competitively and twice a week I run ball drills. Is there anything else I can do to take the next step to improve my game? - Jacksonville, FL

Find better competition or put more pressure on yourself to perform. - Ray

1) In your opinion is it harder to run 50 balls in 14.1 or six straight racks of eight ball? 2) What skill levels usually have a good chance at qualifying for the APA Armature US Open? - Katy, TX

1. After you play 14.1 you will have a lot 50 ball runs. If you play eight ball at the highest level you don't see 6 racks run that often.
2. That is hard to say, some areas have better lower rated players because of the number of higher ranking players. If you what to try to qualify for the tournament, go for it. - Ray

When shooting a game of 9-Ball, if you call your object ball in a certain corner, and miss, but also sink the nine ball do you win the game? - Easton, PA

If you are calling the pocket; No. I don't know why you would call the lower numbered ball and win if you happen to luck in the 9-ball. - Ray

I play a lot of draw but when I want a 2 foot draw I get a 6 foot draw how can I limit my draw? I'm a lefty; when I play my cue ball from the left head string about 30 degrees over to the right rail and about 1 quarter of an inch from the rail, my object ball rides 2 balls left of the upper right pocket. I don't understand why, please help. This shot is killing me! - Danville, NH

It sounds like you use two much English on your draw. You don't need to cue that low. Try that and let up on the stroke a little. The second one has a little to do with the first, you can throw the ball off the line with English and over stroking the shot. Try to shot the shot with different English and let up or put more power in the shot. The cue stick could be deflecting the balls more the harder you hit the shot. Try to see the effect the stroke has when you practice the shot and you will understand how and when the ball will move on each shot. Being left hand doesn't have anything to do with the movement. - Ray

What is ball in hand? - Chico, CA

It is when you have the opportunity to place the cue ball where you want it. This happens when a player fouls. - Ray

Can your opponent use your ball to make the final eight ball shot? - Hawthorne, CA

No. - Ray

Please tell me the secret to jump ball. - Miami, FL

Get a jump cue. They are lighter and shorter. After you jump some balls with the jump cue try to use your playing cue to jump some shots. The jump cue will help you see the angle you need to hit the cue ball. I would learn how to kick better first. - Ray

When I play I don't calculate the angles. How do you use the diamond system? - Chicago, IL

The diamond system is a good thing to learn. I would suggest you contact Tom "Dr. Cue" Rossman on this web site (www.drcuepromotions.com) and get his book on angles. Good luck and I hope you continue to play. - Ray

I'm having trouble with my ball control are there any drills you can recommend? - Chico, CA

Yes, you could practice the "L" place 15 balls one the table in an L. Above the spot on the rail place your first ball and in line go to the spot leaving room the make the shot. You will get about 8 or 9 balls placed before you get past the spot. The remaining balls you place in a line going to the long rail on the second diamond. Start with ball in hand and try to run out. This drill will help you see and play shape for the angle you need for the next shot. If you throw balls out on the table and shoot make sure you have a spot you would like the cue ball to stop. If you work on every practice shot you will get better with the cue ball. - Ray

When I am shooting and not stretched out across the table, I seem to lift my arm right at the end of my stroke before making contact with the cue ball, what would be a good technique to get me out of this habit? - Austin, TX

Get a 20oz soda bottle and put on a table and work on stroking in the bottle until you can stroke and strike the bottom of the bottle without hit the rim of the bottle. - Ray

I'm having trouble with my jump shot, I know you have to raise the butt of the cue but where should I make contact with the cue ball? - Isle of Wight, U.K.

The amount you raise the butt of the cue is up to how high you need to jump. Hit the cue ball about 1/2 below center and work on the amount of force you use on the shot. - Ray

Where is the best place to break on 8 and 9-ball? Plus, do you have any tips on how to calm yourself for playing for money? - Clay City, KY

On the break try to move around until you find a place where you are getting a lot of action on the balls. If you are hitting the break solid you will start making balls. One thing is not to bet over your head. Know you comfort number and try to stay in that in that area. The more you gamble the better you will gamble. - Ray

Can you strike one of your balls then that ball strikes an opponents ball then strikes your object ball sinking it? Also, I notice that I play horribly against 2's and great against 5's Do you find that lower ranked players bring your game down? - Bakersfield, CA

It is always a legal shot when you hit your ball first. Start looking at the game as if you are playing the table rather than a player with a lower skill rating. Try to win and play as well as you can on every game, if you chose to shoot a ball, work hard on making the shot. This will help you focus and start betting lower skilled players. - Ray

I have been playing for 11 years and can run out in 9-Ball and 8-Ball. Should I join an amateur league or should I wait for a major tournament? - Alameda, CA

There are a lot more tournaments on an amateur level. Lets face it - amateurs get paid money too. If you wanted to compete against the best in the world and see where you stack up, move up and try it out. If you don't get in the money it shouldn't hurt you down the road if you want to enter the amateur tournaments. - Ray

When I shoot I tend wobble the butt end of my stick; in return it messes up some of my shots, how can I correct this problem? - Radford, VA

Is it from nerves? If the wobble is up and down you need to work on leveling out your stroke. Nerves will cause you to shake and you should play in more tournaments to get past the uncomfortable feeling. - Ray

Please define Kiss, Carom, and Combination. - Kirkland, WA

Carom is when the cue ball is shot into the object ball, leaves the object ball and pockets a different ball. Combination is when you strike the object ball and the object ball pockets a ball. Kiss is just contact of two or more balls. - Ray

What is the best practice drills for 9-Ball? - Wright, WY

Play the ghost some 10-ball. Play 10-ball just like 9-ball. I have instructions to play the ghost in some of the archived answers. - Ray

How do players learn English and the effect it has on the cue ball? I've been told I have automatic left-hand English, but I don't see it? - Ocee, FL

I have never heard of automatic left English. But it takes practice to learn the cue ball. Go to the table and just hit the balls around. Shoot the same shot and watch what the cue ball does differently every time you try different English. - Ray

I have been aiming for the second ball back on my breaks and using a firm draw stroke, but I can't seem to get consistent 8-ball movement - what can I do? - Morristown, NJ

Unfortunately, pool is not a perfect science. If you are hitting the break where you want then try using different speeds to get movement with the balls. - Ray

How do you get inside English? - Hagerstown, MD

You need to stroke through the shot and stay down. This is a speed shot and you need to really work on the speed of the stroke to get inside English to work. This is hard English to control, so make sure this is the best way to play the ball. - Ray

When it comes to 9-ball I am terrible. I know I am a position player and not a shot maker, as needed in 9-Ball play; do you have any tips to improve my 9-Ball play? - Maine

Straight pool players tend to not have a powerful stroke. 9-Ball is a stroke contest and you need to be able to play position and have a stroke that can move the cue ball around the table. Try to work on some stroke shots and work on the break. The break is 60% or more in 9-Ball. - Ray

I am having a little trouble with rail shots, when the object ball is up against the rail, or an inch or two off. Some players say to contact the rail first, others say the rail and the ball at the same time, some say ball first. No matter what I do I kick the ball from the rail. How can I line up these shots better? - Lebanon, OH

This is a shot that you need to practice. Slow everything down in your head and try to see the contact of the cue ball and the object ball. I like to think I'm hitting both the rail and the ball at the same time. If there is a League in your area you should look into joining, they are a lot of fun and other team members can help you along the way. - Ray

I would like to know how to play the ghost so I can advance my game and skill. Also, what is an easy way to practice cue ball control? - Baltimore, MD

The ghost is a game where you play against the table. You first break the ball and then take ball-in-hand and run out. If you miss a shot, the game is over, you lose. Re-rack the balls and start a new game. If you scratch on the break that game goes to the ghost. I like to race to 9 or 11. The first one to reach 9 or 11 wins, just like in a real match. The best thing about the ghost is you are playing someone who doesn't miss. This will make you work hard on every shot if you want to win and in the process you will learn the cue ball better. - Ray

How do I put backspin on the cue ball? - Akron, OH

You need to stay down and strike through the bottom of the cue ball. It is almost like a snap. This is something that reading about does not help as much as watching. Get out and ask a good local player or just watch him break and try to do what you see. - Ray

Besides practice, what is the most productive way to improve your game? - Collinsville, IL

Work on your concentration. This can be as important as hitting balls. I like to close my eyes and think that I am at the table and go through a rack of balls; I have never missed a ball that way yet. - Ray

I cannot make a simple cut consistently. Is there a rule of thumb? - Lunenburg, MA

Some shots are from knowledge and others are natural. This is going to take practice. The more you shoot the shots the more you will make them. Practice these shots and try to see the impact of the cue ball and the object ball so you will be able to correct the aim. - Ray

Do you consciously factor in any "squirt" into your aiming of medium long shots with English? I know there are many factors that affect a shot, some people say there is definite deflection and it needs to be accounted for and others say the deflection is so minimal and its normally counteracted by the spin of the ball. Also, is there any aiming effect on the cut angle of an object ball from draw or follow? - Haddon Heights, NJ

Wow, Yes there is defection on every shot not just the ones you use extreme English on. Put the cue ball on the rail about one diamond off the corner pocket. Place the object ball a couple of inches from the other short corner. Then place 4 pennies in a stack in front of the cue ball about 6 inches in front of the cue ball. With as level as a stroke as you can shoot the ball in the pocket, the cue ball will jump the pennies without you even trying to. The cue ball will lave the table on every shot. - Ray

When breaking in 14-1 what is the ideal position for the cue ball and the object ball that is to be potted when breaking up the rack of 14 balls? - Katy, TX

Any break shot is a good one if you are close to the rack. The best shot for me would be the object ball about 6 inches off the rack about 2 balls up from the spot and the cue ball at a little cut angle. - Ray

When I go to shoot a ball and try to put left or right English on the cue ball, do I aim differently at the object ball? - Womelsdorf, PA

Yes, but you need to practice the shots to know how much the ball will deflect. Deflection rate is different for every player. - Ray

I can't seem to be able to get good contact on the cue ball. Do you have any suggestions? - Philadelphia, PA

You need to steady your bridge when you elevate over other balls. I like to cross my pointing finger over my middle finger to give me a solid base. - Ray

When I need to masse' I have trouble determining where on the cue ball to aim, where should I aim? - Antioch, IL

That is a tough one. No player shoots the masse' shot with a lot of consistency. This is a shot that you need to work on, for a shot where the ball is close to the pocket or you just need to curve the cue ball a little to make a good hit. - Ray

What's the trick to using the rail dots to help with bank shots? - Middletown, NY

Yes, Dr. Cue has a great book on the Diamond System, find and buy his products at www.drcuepromotions.com. -- Ray

How do you determine how and/or when to take the shot or play defense? - Lexington, SC

First thing is to make sure if you start to run out the table, you can run out. This has a lot to do with the way you rate your game. Some players think they play better then they really do. I like to look and see if I have a 70 to 80% chance to run out, if not I like to pick the balls I want for that game and play defense on the second shot. - Ray

It is possible to make the cue ball follow the object ball by striking it below center? - Hartland, MI

Yes, this is an impact shot. You need to hit this shot pretty hard and try not to snap through the cue ball. The reason you would hit this shot is if you wanted to roll the cue ball about 5 to 6 inches. This stroke helps control the cue ball. I like to hit this shot so the cue ball doesn't roll off because of the table being un-level or the cloth is a little worn. - Ray

What is the generally accepted rule for playing a safe? - Plattsburgh, NY

The cue ball or a ball has to hit a rail after legal contact. - Ray

I don't have a very powerful break, where would be the best position for me to place the cue ball for the break? - Mosby, MO

Try hitting the rack from the side rails. This will let the head ball release from the rack; and use middle to low English on the break. - Ray

Is it good to practice with different techniques? - Princeton, KY

Yes and no. I like to watch other players break and see if they are making balls from the break placement and the speed they hit the break, but that is about it. - Ray

What English should be used while doing a cross-bank when the object ball is close to a corner pocket? - Buffalo, NY

Speed is as important as English. All tables play different and the weather will have a lot to do with how the balls come off the rail and other balls. Try to work on the shot and shoot the shot using more speed. This will make the object ball push into the rail a little more giving the cue ball time to get out of the way. - Ray

I have difficulty making cut shots. Is there a rule as to where I should aim to properly hit the object ball? - Manassas, VT

Yes, the rule is to practice the shots over and over until you feel good about shooting the shot in a game. - Ray

I have the worst time with straight rail shots. When both balls are locked on the same rail, what is the best hit to use on that shot? - Overland Park, KS

If the object ball and the cue are frozen and you want to pocket the ball in the upper right hand corner you would hit the cue ball with a little high right English. This will make the cue ball hold on to the rail and you'll get better contact on the object ball. - Ray

When banking, I've noticed a ball with top-spin seems to bank "true" while a ball with draw banks shallow. What is the reason for this and how should I practice my bank shots to maximize my learning curve? - Saskatoon, SK Canada

You should always try to bank each ball at the same speed, Hard. The best bank players use low English to shoot most of their shots, it tends to straighten the bank up after it comes off the rail. Keep in mind this is for one-rail banks. Happy robbing! - Ray

What do you find to be the best practice tool? Also, is there a simple way to understand squirt (where the object ball moves off it's path due to the English applied to the cue ball), where should I aim? - Brighton, MI

The best way to practice is up the player. I like to play straight pool when I feel like I'm just a little off. I also like to play the ghost. This is a game you can play by yourself and get more out of than playing a better player a lot of the time. To play the ghost you rack the balls up in the game you like to play and break. After the break you get ball-in-hand. Take ball in hand and run out, if you scratch or miss you loose, if you run out, you WIN. I like to play to 7 or 9... The cue ball will squirt, How much is up to you...The way you hold your cue on impact or how fast you spine the ball. There are many other reasons for this. Just keep practicing and you will have more fell for the defection. - Ray

I am a 7 player trying to reach the next level, I am having trouble with top English, with a firm hit I keep missing far left and I can't seem to control it. What practice tip can you recommend for this? - Springdale, AR

At your level it seems you just need to keep practicing. You'll get it. You could try to get a 20oz. soda bottle and work on stroking your shaft in the opening without hitting the sides. - Ray

Do you put topspin on the ball on a break? - Boston, MA

Yes, the harder you hit the break the more low you need to keep the cue ball on the table. Low will hit the head ball and make the cue ball spin down to the table and high will make the ball spin up after impact and fly off the table. - Ray

What is the best practice drill for learning cue ball control? - Coats, NC

The best one I've found is the "L." Line up 15 balls in an "L" starting at the middle diamond and going to the spot; then go to the right or left rail. Take ball-in-hand for the first shot and try to pocket the balls in one of the corner pockets. -Ray

What are some secrets to making long shots? - Daytona, FL When the cue ball is at one end of the table and the object ball is at the other I always miss, do you have any suggestions? - Ridgeway, IA

The most important thing is to stay down on the shot. Practice long shots, be patient, and when it comes up you will be ready. If you spend time on them you will make them. - Ray

I think the hardest shots are the ones where left or right English are needed for the leave on the next shot; do you have any suggestions? - Lisle, IL

Yes, aim a little different on the shots when you use English. We all have to compensate for the left and right English. - Ray

I have seen you mention Straight Pool, exactly what is that? - Ruston, LA

Straight Pool is 14.1. It is a game where you rack 15 balls and shoot any ball in any pocket. When you get to the 15th ball rack-up the other 14 and try to pocket the 15th ball and break open the rack on the table. You repeat this after every 14th ball has been pocketed. This is where you get your high run. If you make the 14 then miss the 15th ball on the break your high would be 14. If you make the 15th ball and get a good breakout you continue to make balls. A good run for someone just starting to play 14.1 is about ten balls. - Ray

I have problems with bank shots; what kind of English should be used on a bank shot? - Lucedale, MS

Well, bank shots are a lot of recall. You need to watch the balls as they come off the rail and see how the object ball is playing. Some tables play short; some play long. Most players never bank a shot unless it is the last option. If you feel you have to bank the shot just remember the left and right English will have an affect on each bank. To see what English will do on a bank, set up the shot four or five times using different English shots on the ball and try to get a feel for the throw or hold of the shot. Good luck and work on the basic shots cross side and cross corner. - Ray

I realize everyone says practice, practice, practice; but is there anything else I need to be doing to help discipline myself enough to stay consistent? - Blue Springs, MO

Yes, every time you miss put your cue down and run around the block…you don't have to practice every day but when you do go to practice, practice longer hours. - Ray

When pocketing the last ball, shouldn't you hit the cue ball naturally without English to avoid miscues, defections or any thing that may possibly happen? - Eagle Rock, CA

You should pocket the ball with a stroke that you can control the shot with. If you over do it sometimes you will miss, scratch or even miscue. I never slow roll a ball. - Ray

Do you feel equally comfortable with your shots using inside as well as outside English? - Los Angeles, CA

No, I like outside. Inside is a speed stroke most of the time. I like to power the shots. - Ray

What is the best way to learn to shoot bank shots? - Windham, NH

The best way is to keep setting up banks and shooting them with different English until you find one you like. I hit most of my banks with low. - Ray

How do you decide when to try a difficult shot, versus playing less then amazing defense? - Charlottesville, VA

Shoot to the pocket if the safe is as tough as the shot; or you can win the game off of the shot. Always look at the reward from a shot and if the reward is greater that the loss, go for it. It's not written in the rules books that if you shoot a hard shot and miss you lose the game. You could get safe. - Ray

Where can I find information about the Diamond Theory? - Flatrock, MI

The Diamond System isn't theory. It has been proven. Go to "Dr.Cue's" Web site, www.drcuepromotions.com. He offers a book with the Diamond System laid out for you. - Ray

Could you explain the parallel aiming system? - Easley, SC

I don't use that aiming system and really don't know much about it, sorry. - Ray

Do you know of any good warm-up games for 8-Ball when practicing alone? Have you heard anything about rubber tips? - Portsmouth, NH

Ten ball is a good practice drill for 8-Ball. Simply, rack-up ten balls, break and run out in order. If you get bored with this drill you are too good! Here is a good "TIP" don't buy the rubber tip. - Ray

Is there a secret to where to find the right spot to hit for kick shots? - Lasalle, IL

No, everyone has a system they use sometimes the systems works and sometimes it doesn't. - Ray

In a game of 8-ball, is this combination legal? I have high balls; I'm attempting to shoot a combination shot in which a low ball is in between two high balls I make the 11-ball. After hitting the 9-ball into the 3-ball and hitting the 11 into the corner is this a legal combination? - Philadelphia, PA

Great shot! You get to go again. - Ray

I was wondering how English works; such as low-left, low-right, high-right, high-left. I'm starting to be able to use English but I need some advice; I need to know which way the ball will go with the English I stated above. - Altoona, PA

If there was a simple explanation everyone would run out. English has a lot to do with the stroke you put on the cue ball. You need to hit the cue ball using a tip below center and one tip to the right with a few different strokes to see what I mean. I can make it do different things by just letting up on my stroke or forcing the stroke threw the cue ball. - Ray

How do you get a perfect straight shot? - Trinidad, CA

You should try to never have a straight shot. We like angles to play shape. If a player has a straight shot he has to cheat the pocket for position. The only straight shot I like is the last ball, about one foot away. - Ray

Is there a drill that would help me get cue ball control? - Tallahassee, FL

Try the "L" drill described in the answer to Coates, NC, listed above. - Ray

What effect is English supposed to have on the cue ball after impact with a numbered ball? - Naperville, IL

The object ball always takes the opposite English of the cue ball. - Ray

What is the best way to attempt an 8-Ball break? - Browns Mills, NJ
I need to tune up on breaking an 8-Ball rack. What should my expectation of a break? What cue weight, cue speed, etc should I be using? - Naperville, IL

The only way to break the balls hard is with low English. The spin will help keep the cue ball on the table. Hitting the second ball on an eight ball break will give you a better chance of making the eight because of the location of the balls. The weight of the cue is up to you. I like to use the same weight I play with, it just fells better to me. If you break the balls and don't make anything move, Buddy Hall says "never break from a place twice if you didn't make any ball from that spot." Speed and spin are the only way to control the cue ball on the break. If you are scratching in the corner use more low or slow down the speed. - Ray

How can I masse a ball and put heavy back English on it at the same time? - Vanceboro, NC

Don't try to masse the balls unless it is the only shot. To masse a ball, jack up on the cue and hit down on the cue ball with a lot of snap. It is impossible to draw the cue ball straight back but the cue ball will leave the object ball at the angle it strikes the ball off of the curve. Go to the pool room in your home town and see if one of the better players will help you with this. - Ray

I have serious issues with aim. What drills do you do to practice your aim on an off day? - Cleveland, OH

Aim is something you shouldn't have to practice. Try hard every shot. - Ray

How do you make good jump shots? - New Castle, IN

Jump shots are all about the angle of impact. Higher angle on the cue ball height the cue ball will go. - Ray

How do you make a long shot to the other end of the table? I always seem to follow it in. - Groton, CT

Sometimes a shot has only one way to play it. You have to decide if you are able to do anything more than just pocket the ball. Don't try to do more than the shot will let you. - Ray

What is the difference between a legal jump shot and an illegal jump shot? - Lafayette, LA

The jump shot must be struck at an angle and the tip must hit the cue ball first. A player may not scoop the stick under the ball to make the cue ball airborne. - Ray

What is the best practice for position play? - Bridgeport, CT

Any practice drill you do would be good. Make sure you always control the cue ball on every shot and try to play some straight pool. - Ray

Is there an exercise I can use to better my cue ball position? - Ft. Lauderdale, FL

Play Straight Pool. This is the game that made all the Old Legends play great pool for years and years. If you play this game and had high runs, around 25 to 50, running a rack of 9-ball would be a hanger. - Ray

How do you legally shoot a push shot without committing a foul? - Warwick, RI

If you are having trouble understanding the rules of push shots, ask someone to show you on the table. This rule is a judgment call a lot of time, like balls and strikes in baseball. Just try to shoot off the angle if the balls have less than a piece of chalk distances apart. If they are frozen you can shoot straight but make sure you shorten up the stroke. - Ray

I'm generally close when I miss, but I wonder if there is a "correct" way to measure a bank shot rather and a gut feeling on where to strike? - Oklahoma City, OK

Yes, there are a few rules to bank shots, I don't use them. I have not found one that works better than feel. Top players use their gut feeling when a bank shot comes up that they have to make. Shannon Daulton is one of the greatest bank players and he is all feel. - Ray

How can I get better action out of my draw shots? How can I improve my draw on table length shots? - Jersey City, NJ

Work on both at the same time. Don't hit the cue ball at the lowest point. Try to get the cue ball to back up, with about a tip below center English. Work on this stroke until you are getting the cue ball back about 3 feet; then move down a little at a time. This will improve your timing. - Ray

I'm having trouble with speed control and shooting the ball a little too hard. Is there a drill that I could use to help with my speed control? - Shreveport, LA

Play more 8-Ball and 14.1 (straight pool), this will help. - Ray

Every time I try to do a drawback on the cue ball the ball stops most of the time. I tried hitting the cue ball one tip below center but the ball still does not move back. What am I doing wrong? - West Covina, CA

You need to punch through the cue ball at impact. Make sure you stay down and stroke through the shot, don't stop at impact. Also, don't worry about the angle as long as the cue ball is not jumping off the table. - Ray

Your object ball and cue ball are frozen together, directly lined up with a pocket. How do you sink the object ball without scratching? - Bayonne, NJ

You can still shoot off the angle and the ball will move to the pocket. If it is a long shot the cue will throw and go in a line away from the pocket. Set this shot up a few times to see how much the ball will deflect on the shot. - Ray

What is a nip shot? Also, did you start as an amateur? - Jacksonville, FL

I don't know what you mean with a nip shot. Yes, we all started out just like everyone else. - Ray

How can I practice strength? - San Francisco, CA

I don't care how strong you are you can develop a feel for the game. If you have trouble with a few touch shots break down your practice so that you shoot a lot of that type of shots. - Ray

When I shoot a lot of left or right English the ball I am shooting seems to move more in the opposite direction. How can I avoid this? - Hampstead, NC

It always happens, it is called the gear affect. You just need to practice and make the adjustments with the shots. - Ray

How do you make a jump shot and the shot where you make the cue ball go around another ball? - Benson, MN

You need to bring the angle of the cue stick up so the tip will hit down on the top of the cue ball to make the cue ball jump. The same is done for a masse' but you hit the cue ball more on the side of the ball to give it English to curve. Please practice this shot on old cloth; you may miss cue and rip the cloth. - Ray

When you have a straight on shot, you can use some back English for a stop. Is there any way to do a stop on a cut shot? - Olympia, WA

No, You don't hit enough of the ball to stop the cue ball. You can masse into the angle and stop the ball but this shot is really hard and I don't think I would play the shot if I really needed the game. - Ray

For some reason I cannot be consistent on hitting my mark on the object ball. I try to eye it up with my cue stick, but it doesn't always work for me. Have any suggestions on practice shots for this problem? - East Liverpool, OH

Shoot more short straight shots, this will let you see the line of impact and it will carry over to other shots. - Ray

I seem to have trouble with my straight shots. How can I improve them? - Crawfordsville, IN

Set up short straight shots. Make sure you watch the ball go into the pocket. I like to set up a few shots and play them to one side of the pocket then the other side. This will make sure you are hitting the object ball in the spot you want and it will help you create an angle when you need it for shape. - Ray

I've been in the APA for 3 sessions now. I am ranked a 5 I am a pretty good player but I don't seem to be getting any better nothing seems to improve. Do you have a certain practice routine you use to sharpen your skills and what could I do to just move a step forward? - Philadelphia, PA

Play only better players for a while. - Ray

What is the best way to practice making shots consistently and accurately? - Philadelphia, PA

The best way to practice shot making is to set up long straight shots and make sure you stay down on the stroke. - Ray

I've developed a stroke that's a little outside in, very disturbing. I'm right handed and looking for a little advice that might correct that fault. - Marion, IN

Try to stroke through the opening of a 20oz. soda bottle without touching the sides or moving it with the cue. This will help straighten up the stroke. - Ray

I've learned that the mental aspects of the game are just as important if not more important as your physical form. Are there any techniques you can suggest to improve the mental part of your game? - Nashua, NH

Just play the game and try to always be positive about every part of the game. I like to look at the table not the other players to stay in a good frame of mind. - Ray

I've only been playing seriously for about two years and my bank shot could use some drastic improvement, any suggestions on how to improve it? - Terre Haute, IN

Banks have a lot to do with knowledge, the more you play the game the better you will see the angle for the banks. - Ray

I seem to have a problem with the object ball bouncing back and forth in the opening in the pocket. Is this a speed control problem or an aiming problem? What can I do to cure this problem? - Baltimore, MD

It is a little of both. You might be coming up off the shot a little bit. Just keep your head down and work on putting a good stroke on every shot. - Ray

Use what you need and only what you need. A lot of players do use English; they simply don't need it and the English will cause them to miss the shot. Keep it simple. - Ray

Is there a practice drill to learn how to shoot a kick shot? - LaSalle, IL

Throw some balls out on the table and only kick at them. You will find that a kick shot has two sides, the big side is a kick you can hit about two balls off and still make a good hit. This is the side you must be able to find on all the important kicks. Sometimes you are better off missing. - Ray

I play right handed. If I start to practice shooting left handed, will it throw off my aim at right hand shots? - Mesa, AZ

No, all it will do is make you a better player. - Ray

Where is the proper place to focus when shooting the shot? - Moorhead, MN

The point of impact. - Ray

Do you have any suggestions on how to improve a bank shot? - Terre Haute, IN

Practice is the only way to get better at anything put the work in and your game will improve. - Ray

How do I hit tough, side shots? - Kansas City, KS

I will try my best to get you through this. I like to look at all shots as the same. Meaning that all shots have an aiming point and if you hit the ball where you want you should make the shot no matter if you think it is hard or easy. Make sure on every shot, side rail or straight in, you pick an aiming point and stay down and threw the shot. Try to place your back hand about one half inch past ninety degrees at impact, this will get you a better impact point and won't let you put unwanted English on the cue ball. - Ray

How do you make a masse shot? - Boston, MA

You close your eyes and hope. Most masse shots are luck. The only masse that you can play is maybe a ball locked in the jaws of a pocket. - Ray

Is there a technique and possible practice routine that you can suggest to not only jump the cue but to become more accurate more consistently? - New Orleans, LA

If you keep practicing the jump shot you will find a position that works for you. The jump shot, like strokes, are up to each player. - Ray

Higher rated players on my team keep preaching to me about defense and how I should use it more often during the game. When I get up there to shoot I am trying to run the rack every time. My question is to become a better player should I be practicing more defense or should I continue practicing position and running out the balls? - Rochester, NH

I like to play offense when I can. I think the better you get the better you become at knowing when to duck. A great offense is very important. The best way to look at it is if I miss this hard shot will I lose the game or is the safe as tough as the offensive shot. - Ray

Ray, I'm having trouble learning the jump shot. I seem to only get the ball to jump about 1" when hitting down on the cue. Can you give any tips that would help me? - Folsom, PA

You have to keep trying the shot until you find the angle you need for the shot. A good jump shot will have a lot of draw when it makes contact with the object ball. - Ray

What are rules on shooting safe? Does a ball have to hit a cushion? If I miss the eight ball when attempting to shoot it, is it ball-in-hand to opponent? - Frederick, MD

A ball must hit a rail after contact, can be the object ball cue ball or any other ball after a good hit. If you miss the eight ball and do not foul you don't get ball in hand. - Ray

You keep referring to a game called 10-ball. For the past two weeks I have been searching for this game in various pool sites and I still have not found anything. What is 10-ball and where can I find some info? - Charlottesville, VA

Ten-Ball is just like 9-Ball. You rack 10 balls in the shape of eight ball and shoot the balls in order, like 9-Ball. - Ray

I've heard most pro players practice 10-12 hours a day to get where they are. Is that 12 hours straight? Also, if I wished to practice that long, would it be best to start at a lower amount of hours and work myself up to that level? - Houston, TX

Jump right in. Most of the time it's 12 hours straight. The reason it is better to play the long sessions is that you are training your mind as well as you body. You learn to make the right choices with the long hours. - Ray

If a player fouls and the other player did not see the foul occur, do they inform the other player or continue playing as if the foul never happened? - Jacksonville, FL

It's up to the player, I've played matches where I called a foul on the person I was playing and they refused to give me ball in hand because there wasn't a referee to make the call. On the tour you are pretty much on the honor system. The rules state that if there is a chance the player will foul on a shot you should call over the tournament director to make the call. If you don't have someone to make the call it goes to the shooter. In the APA its proper sportsmanship conduct to inform the player of your foul. - Ray

When I play pool I'm a sucker for a cut shot and pretty good at them, are these wise shots? On average I make 60% of them. I seem to have trouble on the long shots, is it I'm near sighted or in my stroke. - Chicago, IL

You should always look to cut the ball first and the bank second. I don't think 60% is a good shot, I might think safe if you have trouble with that type of shot. The best way to improve on a shot is to practice that shot. Make it a weapon instead of a weakness. - Ray

For the past couple of weeks I have been working on my break. The last 2 weeks at APA league night I found myself sinking the eight on the break 3 times out of 8 matches on standard bar tables. I recently shifted to the second ball break technique with heavy draw. When I find myself on 9-foot tables I don't get the same action on the table. Is there any different technique for the break on a 9 or 8-foot table to create an early eight situation? - Morristown, NJ

You have less force on the 9-foot table, so less action. I found that the balls open up more for the 8- ball to go into the side on the bigger table. I like to break hitting the head ball. I feel it gives me a better chance to run out. When I break the second ball and the eight ball doesn't go the table seems to be more cluttered. - Ray

Looking for lesson for 3 boys - 13, 16 and 18. Do you know how to find someone to teach them? - Alpharetta, GA

Look up the local billiards room and ask for the house pro. I would ask for the manager; I wouldn't ask the counter help or the bartender. Good luck. - Ray

I'm really having a hard time with my draw. I am a run-out player who lacks the long distance draw most of the time. Any suggestions? - New York City, NY

Try the Buddy Hall pause stroke. This will improve your timing and help you get through the ball. - Ray