How do you put spin on the cue ball to set yourself up for another shot? – Gulfport, MS

That is called English, you need to follow through the cue ball after contact from the tip. This will spin the ball and it will allow you to have some control over the spin. If you want to draw the bal, cue at the bottom of the cue bal, if you want the cue ball to go forward hit the cue ball above center. Work on cue tip position and you will see the affect of the English. – Ray


I’d like to perfect a shot, when you hit the cue to an object ball and it in return hits another ball in front of the pocket and it follows in after, can you help? – Las Vegas, NM

Use low English on that shot and do overpower the shot, let the English make the ball follow the ball in the pocket. The object balls take the opposite English of the cue ball. Low on the cue ball high on the object ball. – Ray

How do I make the 9-ball in on break? – Goodlessville, TN

Hit it hard and hope, there isn't a perfect way to break and the nine goes in. – Ray

Have you ever tried and mastered the masse shot? What is the most effective way to try and learn control on a masse? – Hubbard, OH

The masse is a shot you hope doesn't decide the winner in your match. It is a hard shot to control at any skill level and should be the last option. If you want to get better at the masse shot it is like all other shots, practice. Most room owner wouldn't want you to practice that shot on their equipment. – Ray

I’ve been playing for about a year, and our team just won the opportunity to play in the APA National Team Championships. I’m just wondering what’s the best way to stay calm. This is really exciting to me! – Saco, ME

Congratulations! Try to have fun and don't put extra pressure on yourself or your team. You want to play and let the balls fall like they have all year. – Ray

What are some key things I can do to improve my shot selection and shot accuracy? – Greensboro, NC

First is to understand what a good shot looks like. I may take a chance if I have a good way to get safe from a miss. The key to getting better is learning to control the table, play the right shots. The more you play all games the better your shot selection and aiming will become. I would play a lot of one pocket, this will help you understand your offense and help you learn what a real safe is; you don't always want to hide the ball. – Ray

I've been playing for 10 years or so and recently I’ve noticed a plateau in my learning curve. I just don't see improvement. What are some more advanced techniques to incorporate into my practice regime? – Peoria, IL

Competition is a big part of getting to the next level. Try to play quality players day in day out. Ten years is a good amount of time, you need to stay focused when you play and make yourself play perfect pool. – Ray

I have been spending a lot of time in the pool room practicing; my game is really starting to improve. Do you think that using a mirror is a good way to keep my stroke consistent? Also please recommend some other things I can try. – Damascus, MD

I like to lay in my recliner and think about playing perfect pool. I break, I shoot the one and I continue to run the table. If you work on things like concentration when you are away from the game is makes it easier to jump back in at a height level of play. – Ray

When a shot requires English one of two things happens, I either make the shot and the cue ball doesn't go where I need it to or the cue ball does exactly what it is supposed to and I miss the shot. I was wondering what would be a good drill to practice English and cue control. Also, in your opinion how important is it to be able to shoot with the left and right hands? - Reno, NV

Use the L drill, place 15 balls down from the middle diamond to the spot and over to the middle diamond on the side rail. Take ball in hand and run out only using one corner pocket. You have to shot the next ball in line no jumping around. Having the skill to use either hand is very important, any time you able to have a nice stroke with you hand and not the bridge is a big advantage. - Ray

I have read how the left brain and the right brain functions during play, but there is not much information on how to train or develop mentally during a match or practicing. Can you tell me if this actually is something that needs to be worked on and if so what is the best way to train. - Danville, IN

The mental game is the hardest. This is what takes players over the hump. I like to relax and think about playing pool or a game of pool. Go through the break and then to the next shot in my head. You also need to know how to be positive at the table or during the match. Cheer yourself on in the heat of a tight match. You are the only one that is able to keep yourself focus and ready to take advantage of upcoming shots. - Ray

This question is in regards to lagging, do all the pool balls weigh the same or are the colored balls a different weight than the cue ball? - Kansas City, MO

They are the same weight minus or plus one tenth of a gram. Use a ball you like, I like using a solid ball it helps me focus on the point of impact. - Ray

I have a feeling like I am going to hit my grip hand on the table when I follow through. I don't want to elevate the cue any more than I have to if at all possible. Do you have any suggestions? - Evansville, IN

That comes with confidence. You need to play more so you can forget about everything and just play pool. - Ray

I have the tendancy to play to the level of my opponent which is good when they are a higher level, but how do you keep from doing that when they are lower than you? - Rockport, MO

Ask yourself if you want to win. You tend to play down when it doesn't matter or you don't care. I love to win and hate to lose. When I get the opportunity to play a lower skilled player I like to see how bad I can beat them. If I lose it's not because I let up. Dig down and play hard try to win at zero, make sure you are a good sport and move on to the next match. - Ray

On a 9-foot table; when faced with a perfectly straight shot, could you describe your technique, such as speed, tip contact point on the cue ball, and what is your advice on aiming. - Warwick, PA

More than technique is confidence. You can run 26 balls in straight pool so you know how to aim. Pick out your impact point and then look for your cue ball line and get down in a good stance and make a good clean stroke. Stay down and good things will happen for you. Shots like that for the beat player with the heat on is 75 to 80%. The key is everyone will miss so don't let a missed shot follow you to the next match. - Ray

You said you break from the bottom left and an inch or so off the first diamond, using low English; how much power do you use when you break? Where do you put the cue ball? - Golden, MS

I break at 80% of full power. You need to find the speed that best fits your stroke. You want to hit the balls at a speed where you have full transfer of power from cue ball to head ball; the best way to see that happen is to look for the cue ball getting air after impact with the head ball. When you have a good amount of action on the balls and the cue ball is not jumping in the air after impact you are about full speed for your break. After you get the cue ball down and you are not making a lot of balls over three breaks move around until you find the sweet spot. You need to move around because every table will break a little different. For the line of impact or dead center is the shortest line from the cue ball to the head ball. - Ray

I have a large chest that gets in the way when I shoot. I can't get low on a shot. I've been told that getting down more on my shots will really help. Any tips? - Bend, OR

To give you the best advice possible I would have to see the problem (Ha Ha; Just Kidding!). Stance is important and as long as you have balance on every shot you should be fine. Getting down lower really helps with longer shots that mostly come up on 9 foot tables. Just make sure you get in a good stance and stay down through impact. - Ray

How do you go about building consistency? - York, PA

I have three things that will help you become more consistent. First you need to have a positive attitude, this is important when it comes down to the winning shot. Second, make sure you practice until you start feeling fatigued and work through the strain of trying to play well. Three, play under control. When you are playing well don't give the other guy free shots, by this I mean you might be up in a match and shoot a loose shot just because you have a big lead. This is the time to put them in jail and control the game without running out. - Ray

I play really good pool and can easily run out in 9-Ball. But when I play with someone the pressure is always there. I lose because of pressure. Do you have any advice to shake this pressure off? - San Jose, CA

Keep putting yourself in pressure situations. The only way to over come the heat is to get use to it. Practice more, even if you find out a lot you still have to have confidence when the heat is on. You have to know you are going to make the shot and that comes with a lot of repeated practice. - Ray

Having trouble with my draw shot, do you have any advice? - Dallas, TX

You have to walk before you run. You may be trying to over draw the cue ball on your table. Set up some close shots and work on stroking through the cue ball about two tips low. If you get where the cue ball is under control move the cue ball back and shoot a longer draw shot. If you hit this shot on a bar table you should be able to make the cue ball dance on Simonis cloth. - Ray

Can you tell me what to look for to see if the balls are frozen or not in the rack so I can get the most out of my break? - Golden, MS

Check the rack after the person racks the balls. You might have to shadow the balls with your hand to see if the balls are frozen. Most of the time it is impossible to freeze all the balls so look for the head ball and then look for the eight ball or nine ball to see if they are froze to the two balls behind the head ball. - Ray

Is it morally wrong to intentionally hit your opponent's ball to sink your ball? I know it will give ball in hand but is there ever a time for it? - Aberdeen, MD

If you think that shot will help your position in the game, go for it. If you use you turn at the table to better your chances of winning your opponent should respect the grit and work on turning the table back into their favor. - Ray

Where on the table do I break in 8-ball to bust the rack good enough so that a lot of balls will fall? Also, what type of English do you use to get a good break off the balls? - Golden, MS

The break spot isn't a prefect science. You need to be able to move the cue ball around until you find the sweet spot. Even if a lot of balls don't find the pocket look for the action on the balls coming out of the rack. The more movement the balls have the better your chance to make one. I use low English and about 8 or 9 on a scale 1 to 10 on speed. You don't want to try to over hit the break; you have to keep control of your stroke cue ball and body through the break. I don't have a spot where I always break from. I look around until the balls start to fall. - Ray

Is the only thing that helps confidence in your stroke playing more than usual, or is there other ways to boost confidence? - Spokane, WA

Just playing more won't do the trick. You have to play under pressure and play close to your top speed. The more you play with something on the line win or lose, your game will improve. - Ray

I am a very strong and aggressive 8-ball player but when I play 9-ball I can't get any consistent runs and lose about twice as much as I do at 8-ball what can I do to improve my 9-ball game? - Easton, MD

Nine Ball is a game where you have to know where you plan to duck or go for the run. Eight Ball you run the balls and have a lot of options to duck. The one thing that will help is to play Ten Ball. Ten Ball helps you see and understand the patterns a little faster. - Ray

Do you have any tips to focus more on my game and not what EVERYONE thinks about EVERYTHING I do on the table? This is a huge problem with me because I don't talk to people, I just think and worry about everything. - Bow, WA

When you get over yourself your game will follow. Are you trying to play good pool or make friends? Have a reason to play good pool and that will motivate you to focus on the game. Be ready to play and do just that. - Ray

How can I keep a straight and steady stroke? - Havertown, PA

Take a 20oz soda bottle, line up your tip as if the bottle was the cue ball. Stroke threw the mouth of the bottle until you are able to stroke threw the bottle hitting the bottom without hitting the mouth. - Ray

Is there a way to mentally "stay in the game"? - Richmond, VA

You see that in every sport. When the match starts you need to have a positive game plan and train yourself that the match isn't over until it's over. The first time I beat Nick Varner in a match was a practice match where I was down 10-0 going to 11. I keep telling myself I had a chance to make it a good show so stay down and put a good stroke on every shot, I couldn't believe I came back and won the set. Keep telling yourself to stay down and don't let up. I like to beat everyone I'm playing 11-0, it never happens but that is how I keep my mind in the game while having a lead and I never call it over until the last ball is in. Become a BULLDOG. - Ray

When I shoot with the cue I don't put my index finger over top of the cue while I'm sliding or shooting. Is that okay? - Rushmore, MN

The bridge is very important for cue ball control. If you find you need to draw the cue 4 or 5 feet and you loose the line you want, it might be caused from you open bridge. Playing on 7 ft. tables the long hard stroke doesn't come up as much as it would on the bigger tables. If you want to bring up your level of play try to work on the Tri-Bridge. - Ray

What is the correct way to bridge my hand to play? I am right handed, I lay the stick on my left hand with an open bridge, and I run the stick on top of my thumb, is there a better way to do this? - McClure, PA

The "h" will give you more tip control. Take out your shaft out while watching TV and work on getting comfortable with the cue stick sliding in your bridge. The open bridge is OK put if you want to have the cue ball on a string you need the tri-bridge. - Ray

What are some resources I could use to learn English and to get a better idea of the diamond system? - McClure, PA

The only good source for the info you want is in books and video. I know some of the prices seem high but the info has value. I will have a DVD out in a few months and the price is going to be around $10 shipping included. - Ray

I am right handed and am trying to find the best way to hold the end of the cue to make my shots. What can I do? - McClure, PA

The Tri-bridge is the best. Get your shaft out while watching TV and work on sliding the shaft through your fingers until it feels right. Bring you comfort level up and the control will be there. - Ray

If I were to hop the cue ball over my opponents ball is that considered a scratch? - Miami, FL

No, you are able to jump over balls if you don't scoop under the cue to get it in the air. If you miss cue while shooting a jump shot or masse it is a foul. - Ray

Outside of a player's cue stroke, what are the most important factors in determining what effect and how much of an effect putting English on the cue ball will have? - Duluth, GA

Each table cloth will play a different speed on shots. All players have to adjust to each table on different kind of shots. The big difference in a Pro and very good players is the ability to make the adjustments in very few shots. Using English from table to table mostly comes down to feel. The amount you draw the cue ball is feel and if I need to move my ball 2 feet not 2 feet 3 inches is feel, I don't think, well, if I stroke through about 10 inches it will draw 1 foot. - Ray

When I play 9-Ball, I have a good run until I get to the 9-ball. What can I do to change this? - Maysville, GA

Play better shape or practice playing ten ball. That way you train your mind not to think of the nine as the winning ball. Most players have trouble with the 7-ball. - Ray

In a 9-Ball break, if an object ball flies off the table does the ball stay down? Is it ball in hand? - Bronx, NY

Yes, the ball stays down and it is ball in hand for the non-breaking player. - Ray

Is 9-Ball of game of luck or skill? - Orange County, CA

In every pool game the best player will win if they play long enough. There is luck involved in everything you do. Nine ball rolls will work out about even if you play longer sets. Nine ball? Skill! - Ray

My wife just joined my pool team and just started playing pool on a regular basis. Is there a book that you would recommend she read? - Columbus, OH

No, she has to keep an open mind and want to consume as much pool as her mind can take. Play, play, play, it is the fastest and the best way to understand in the beginning. For a real beginner I would suggest a video over a book, if the player can't visualize the shots when reading a book the book is useless to the player. - Ray

When shooting, what ball do you focus on? - New Iberia, LA

What came first the chicken or the egg? I look at the cue ball first, get my aiming line and English I'm going to use, then focus on the object ball through the shot. Not every player aims like that; do what feels good and works for you. - 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

If I make a ball on the break in 9-Ball, can I do a push? - Frankfort, KY

Yes, you have the option to push on the first shot after the break. - Ray

In 9-Ball, if the ball needs to be replaced on the table, if the foot spot is taken, the 9-ball would be placed "directly" behind the foot spot as close to the foot spot as possible. If there is a ball on the foot spot and another ball directly behind that ball, where would you put ball? - Spring, TX

You always put the ball in a straight line of the spot. If there is a ball on the spot and a ball just off the spot, you place the ball in line of the spot off the edge of the ball in the way. - Ray

What would be a good drill to work on my banking? - Chico, CA

I like to place 10 balls in a line down the table, take ball in hand and start banking them in order. I like to start with across corner banks and then across side. - Ray

What is the correct way to hold the bridge and still maintain a good follow through on the shot you are shooting at? - Ft. Myer, VA

I play with both hands and very rarely use the bridge. I would watch some of the woman play they are very good with the bridge. The best I could tell you is to get comfortable and try to make a good stroke. - Ray

I have a rather unique bridge that I have used since I began playing pool. I rest the shaft in the groove between my index finger and middle finger knuckles. Other people have trouble with this bridge as they do not have the defined knuckles that I have. A very highly rated local player says I must change my bridge, otherwise I will not improve. I am reluctant to do so as I am very comfortable with this bridge. I am able to do anything with this bridge that can be done with any other bridge. Must I change? - Tuscon, AZ

Yes, Even though you might be able to use all the English on the shot you want you still would be a better player with a better bridge. - Ray

When I attempt to draw back the length of the table I usually miscue or the cue ball jumps. I chalk up for friction on the ball, hold my stick level and stroke through the ball. What am I doing wrong? - Manorville, NY

Your timing, the shot is a little off and you maybe trying to over stroke the shot. Stay down and stroke through your aiming point and you will draw the ball, how must is up to you. - Ray

Who has to declare the ball frozen the shooter or the opponent? Does it have to be declared prior to the shot? - Katy, TX

The non-shooting player. You wanted to call a ball frozen on yourself? - Ray

The 9-ball is frozen on the rail and the cue ball a few inches from it. If a player hits the cue ball into the nine and it (the cue ball) bounces back to its original position it is a good safe? - Katy, TX

It's a good hit only if the nine ball wasn't called froze before you shot. If the nine is called froze you have to contact the object ball and the object ball or cue ball must hit a different rail. - Ray

What bridge should you use when your cue ball is on the rail? - Queens, NY

I like to have the tip of my figures on the edge of the rail. - Ray

How can I improve my break? If move my grip hand forward or "choke-up" on the cue while maintaining a longer than usual bridge; can you give more insight on why that should help? - Park Ridge, IL

I move up to gain speed and control. I don't make the bridge longer it says about the same. The placement of the stroke hand is the most important, if it is back to far I tend to jump up to get the cue threw before impact. - Ray

If you make the 8-ball in on the break is that an automatic win? - Jacksonville, FL

Not always. It depends on the house rules or league rules. The way the pro play, it's a win. - Ray

What is the best way to scuff the tip to hold more chalk and grip the cue ball better? - Inver Grove Heights, MN

I like the Tip Tapper; it helps hold chalk but doesn't take off the leather. - Ray

How can you put the most draw on the cue ball? - Twinning, MI

You have to work on your timing and speed. You don't have to hit the cue ball as hard as you think you do. You need to stay down and make sure the cue tip gets thru the cue ball at the lowest point of the cue ball. - Ray

When playing 8-Ball can you call a safe shot then purposely make your own category ball and have your turn pass to your opponent. Or must you continue with your turn? - West Palm Beach, FL

They have so many different rules to play by. Most of the time that would be a legal shot, you would need to check the rules in the area and see if they have it listed. If not it is played as a legal safe. - Ray

How do you put English on the cue ball if you're a left handed player? - Clinton, MD

It is the same as a right handed player. Join a local APA league and work on your game. Maybe you will meet a left handed player you can watch and learn from. - Ray

I've been playing pool seriously for almost a year in a small 8-ball league. I would like to join a 9-ball tournament at a local bar but I'm afraid that I'm not ready; do you have any tips for improving my confidence? - Spring, TX

Yes, Play. Play in every tournament in your area. The more you play under pressure the better your game will be and you will only gain confidence from the experience. - Ray

When I was twelve my mom and I moved to Sweden, there weren't many pool playing opportunities there. What can I do by myself to help improve my game? - Malmo, CT

Go online and buy some tapes of your favorite player. Try to do some of the shots you see on the tapes and watch how they play shape on the balls. Always practice with a purpose. - Ray

Can you give me some tips on curling the cue ball and making it draw back from a shot and to make it follow through? - London, IL

The draw the cue ball you need to snap the tip threw the bottom of the cue ball. You want to generate spin. To follow, just hit above center and work on the speed you put on the shot. Good luck and happy potting. - Ray

What is a good book or DVD to purchase for my boyfriend on the instructions and art of playing pool? - Sarasota, FL

I like Tom "Dr. Cue" Rossman's book, you can get the info on his web site at www.drcuepromotions.com. If you contact Tom and let him know what skill level your boyfriend plays, I'm sure he will be able to get you the right book. - Ray

An opponent of mine was facing a tough shot late in the game and promptly took aim and intentionally sunk the cue ball into the corner pocket (we were not playing ball-in-hand). He maintains that it's legal and has done it many times. Somehow I do not believe that an intentional scratch is legal. Do you know anything about this? - Eugene, OR

The intentional foul is a good shot. I don't think it should be aloud in a game where you are not playing ball in hand. In open effort or gentleman effort, you should try to attempt a legal shot or legal safety. His play show bad sportsmanship and this is the reason for the ball in hand rule. - Ray

How do you know what spin to use so you can put the ball where you want it? How do you know how to hit the ball for a bank shot? - Sumter, SC

You need to spend more time on the spin, after a while you just do it without thinking it. The break is a little harder you want to hit the head ball with some force but try not to let the cue ball jump in the air at impact. The break is part of the game I see World Champions working to improve. If you want it you have to do what it takes to get there and that is a lot of work and imagination. - Ray

What is the best way to not be nervous during a game? - Summerville, SC

If you are not nervous, it doesn't mean as much to you. It's OK to be nervous you just need to get used to playing while you're nervous. - Ray

I've lost focus, the feel for the cue, confidence in running out. I've been playing for 40 years, what do I do? - Asheville, NC

Try to play players that are a little under your speed to get your confidence back. Don't play people that are to easy to beat, pick players that will make you focus to win. - Ray

What can I do to improve my skill level mentally and physically? - Jamestown, OH

Work on your concentration. Practice longer and when you feel yourself losing interest try to play at your match level. This will help you start and finish better. - Ray

I've been playing for some time now and I do get days that I'm off a little and I try to compensate. I'm not nervous, is it that I'm trying too hard or am I forgetting my basic pool strokes? - East Fallowfield, PA

You sound like you're not ready to play. You might feel like your ready, but when that happens to me I have to slow down and aim more and try to put some pressure on myself so I can focus on pool. - Ray

Can you recommend a video or book that demonstrates pool fundamentals? - Sylvania, OH

"Dr. Cue" Rossman has a few materials that are very good. If you look back at answers from January 28 you will find his Web site address. - Ray

My English is not hitting the ball on top or on bottom - it is left or right every time. I want some action for my leave but I end up missing the shot that I should have made but I am worried about my leave. Can you help? - Tacoma, WA

First rule is to pocket the ball you are shooting. Look and try to play within yourself. Meaning, play the shot with English you feel comfortable with. Practice on things by yourself and work on the shots you have trouble with. Confidence is a big key to playing on the outside of the cue ball. - Ray

I am not really sure where to hit the one ball on the break. Can you help? - Eugene, OR

If you use a power break you need to see a straight line from the cue ball and the head ball. Hit the cue ball with low English and try to pause on your backstroke. You may need to slow your break down until you have a good idea what's going on during the shot. - Ray

What are the best concepts to apply in order to become a more consistent breaker in 8-Ball? - Braidwood, IL

Find a place on the table you feel comfortable. Break from that spot and start out about 1/3 of the speed until you are hitting the head ball solid and the cue ball is staying flat on the table. The less air on the cue ball the more power the cue ball transfers through the rack. Stay down and make sure you are hitting the cue ball where you want. - Ray

Where should I place the cue ball to have the best chance to make an 8-on-the-break? - Aliquippa, PA

Your guess is as good as mine! - Ray

What is the best exercise for improving speed control and position play? How long do you think a player should practice everyday to gain their full potential? I have trouble concentrating on the game when I'm playing, what do you recommend doing? - Newton, OH

Play straight pool to improve every part of your game. Practice time is up to you. I like to play about 4 hours a day; and if my focus isn't there I work longer. I would try to set about 30 minutes a day aside and just play pool in your mind. Sit in your favorite chair and just think about running the table. - Ray

I can draw my cue ball back on short shots using a follow through shot, medium hit at the bottom of the ball with a cue elevation of 7%. However, I cannot seem to get my cue ball to draw at all over long distances. Any advice on what I am doing wrong? - Clinton, KY

Cue lower and work on your stroke. You need to develop a strong stroke to perfect that shot. I would go to the poolroom and play on the oldest and slowest cloth there. This will help you get comfortable hitting the cue ball lower with more power. - Ray

What is the best way for a player to learn English and draw? - Panama City, FL

The best way is to play with low English on every shot when you practice. Do this until you can draw your cue ball back the length of the table with control. When you start drawing the ball at will, try to place it in an area about the size of a grapefruit. - Ray

What is the best method to use for aiming? - Vineland, NJ

Aiming is a little hard to try to get you to understand in a couple of words. I like to draw a line using the butt of my cue through the tip and have the line travel through the target I would like the cue ball to make contact with. - Ray

I have trouble seeing potential run out patterns. Is there a drill to help me with this? - Sherwood, AR

Yes, it is called straight pool. - Ray

What are some tips for a great break in 8-Ball? - Birmingham, AL

The best tip is to make sure you keep the ball on the table after the break. You want a flat cue ball so it doesn't jump off the table. The lower the impact the more energy will transfer through the rack and you will have more action on the break. - Ray

How are the diamonds along the edge of the table used? - Hermitage, AR

They are used for measuring. The best direction to point you towards diamond system study is to Tom "Dr. Cue" Rossman. He has a handbook out that goes over the basic diamond system called Rack Up A Victory. You can order this book from Tom's Web site at www.drcuepromotions.com, go to the Game Improvement Products section on the left hand side, near the bottom. This book will make anyone who reads it a better kicker. Even the top players... - Ray

I have been playing for a couple of years. I find it hard to play my best game when my opponents are poor players and I am having trouble working my way up to the next level. I do practice in my free time, do you have any suggestions? - Yuma, AZ

Practice the Ghost, it will get you ready to play. If you practice 4 hours a day you should play the ghost about 3. - Ray

How do you aim properly? What is the technique for aiming an object ball? - Iloilo, OK

The proper way to aim... Well, lets start with the way I aim, I draw a line through the contact point of the ball and the BUTT of my cue, (USE THE WHOLE CUE). When the cue line is lined to strike the contact point of the ball you shouldn't miss the shot. English will have some effect on the shot. Top players can see if a player is going to miss the shot from their chair a lot of the time. If you can imagine the line and see the impact line you will miss a lot less. Good luck! -Ray

I think I have a powerful break; do you have any tips on breaking? - Oklahoma City, OK

Sometimes it is better to let off on the break. Power is good most of the time but you will find some tables break better at about half speed. If balls are moving good off of a power break but not going into the pockets - vary your speed to see if you are over hitting the break for that table. - Ray

I really am bad at pool. What would you recommend I do to become a better player? - Richmond, VA

Practice more. Leagues are great to get into because you can learn from your teammates; by watching others play you can see what works for them and then try it on your own. - Ray

I love pool but have a problem with my stroke. I stroke the ball well but I overpower the ball to get shape but I don't always make the ball. Do you have any suggestions? By the way I have watched you live and you are great! - Mims, FL

Thanks! Yes, there is a way to stroke some shots softer and get more out of the shot. Angle of the cue at impact and even the type of cue you use can help. There are shots that you have to power stroke and you just need to stay down and make sure you are pocketing the ball first; if you don't get the shape you wanted play safe. - Ray

I get in the bad habit of lifting my head too early, yet I can't get out of the habit. Do you have any suggestions on how to keep my head down? - Keyport, NJ

Don't think about it. On every shot your head will move. The important part is your timing on the shot. Go out and play and just try to get into a pace of play that you feel suits you. Work on some soft stroke long shots, this will help you get through your stroke a little better. - Ray

Can you recommend a good book with regard to strategy, table management, and defensive shots for 9-Ball? Also, what are the fundamentals of drawing a ball the length of the table? - Seabrook, TX

Robert Burns' book "99 Critical Shots" will help. On the long draw make sure you are hitting the cue ball low. A lot of the time a player tries to hit the cue ball to hard and comes off of the impact point. Stay and get through the cue ball at the lowest point and put a good clean stroke on the ball. - Ray

How do you jump the ball from the top? How long have you been playing pool? - Eastlake, OH

The cue ball jumps every time you hit it above center. If you elevate the cue and strike down on the center of the cue ball it will jump, the more you angle the impact the higher it will get into the air. I have been playing for about 20 years. - Ray

As an amateur, I get really nervous before a match. Do you have any suggestions that might help nerves? - West Frankfort, IL

Keep playing in all the events you can and practice hard so you feel like you are playing as well as possible. - Ray

Where could I find a picture of the correct rack for 8-Ball and 9-Ball? - Yachats, OR

You don't need a picture. You rack 8-Ball with the 8-ball in the middle with a stripe in one corner and a solid in the other. You may use any ball for the head ball. For a 9-Ball rack, the 9-ball is put in the middle and the one is the head ball... Break'em! - Ray

What is the advantage to using a closed bridge as opposed to an open bridge? - Tacoma, WA

A closed bridge will help you hit the cue ball with a little more control. If you really have to get on a shot with a lot of force it will help you stay down and through the impact. You will shoot straighter with an open bridge because you can aim with the length of the shaft. If it's not broke don't fix it. - Ray

What position should the cue ball be for a great break every time? - Murray, IA
Where is the best place to line up the cue ball when breaking? - Aniwa, WI

The placement of the cue ball should be off center. Place the cue ball half a diamond from the side rail. You line up off center to let the head ball release from the impact. Use low English on the ball. The impact point should be center head ball from where you are shooting. Center is always center from where the cue ball is lined up. Watch players who have good breaks and try to mimic their breaking habits when you practice the break. - Ray

How do you stay focused, what are some tips to not get ahead of yourself? - Las Vegas, NV
Sometimes I have a hard time concentrating, I think of a million different things when I go to shoot, any suggestions? - Wyandotte, MI

Keep your eyes on the table the entire game; always be aware of what is going on. Be ready to play and be there because you want to be there. I look at the table even if it is not my turn. Sometimes a player will start to look around the room and lose the feel for the match. - Ray

What tips can you give me about stance? My stance is not consistent, but it doesn't seem to affect my game. - Murray, KY

The stance is one of the most important things to becoming a consistent player. Balance is the key to any stance. You might not look like the next guy, but if you have your balance on every shot, who cares! There are a lot of pros and very few have the same stance. But every one of them have great balance on their shots. - Ray

How can I play more consistently, my nerves get to me sometimes? - Willisburg, KY
I play well on a regular basis for fun, but playing League or in a tournament I choke, any suggestions? - Salisbury, MD

To overcome your nerves put yourself in pressure positions as much as you can. Play more tournaments or match yourself up with tough players when playing for fun. I use to push myself practicing to the point my nerves would come into play. - Ray

What are some of your past and present training tools that helped you in your game, both with and without a table? Also, have you ever been to Fort Benning for the pool events there? - Morristown, NJ

No, I have never been to Fort Benning. The thing I like to do is play the Ghost (see instructions in past questions answered) and Straight Pool. When I am not playing I like to visualize pocketing the shots I have trouble with. - Ray

I need to work on my breaks. Do you have any tips? - San Diego, CA

Keep working on them. Break the balls a lot and try to get through the cue ball on a flat plain. If the cue ball flies in the air after impact your cue plain is at too much of an angle. Flatten the stroke. - Ray

What books do you recommend to improve my game? - Milford, CT

I haven't really read that many books on pool. I like "Rack Up a Victory" by Tom Rossman. It contains information for the beginner all the way to the Pros. Go to www.drcuepromotions.com for information. -- Ray

What is the proper way to rack the balls for 8-Ball? - Kingston, MA

In 8-Ball you only need the 8 in the middle, a stripe in one corner and a solid in the other. - Ray

Where do you suggest I go to find instructional videos in DVD? - Blue Bell, PA

At this time I don't know of any instructional videos on DVD. ACCU Stats at www.accu-stats.com offers a variety of videos on-line, however, at this time they do not offer DVD. - Ray

What can I do to be more consistent at the table? (I'm the guy who watched your bags in Vegas!) - Indian Orchard, MA

No one plays his or her top level every time. But what makes a Pro a Pro is they will have a less of a gap in the level they play at. Just try hard to play the right shot every time and your level of play will improve. (Thanks again for the bags!) - Ray

What is the most important thing for me to do while I'm lining up my shot and during the shot? - Cheektowaga, NY

Practice. Just make sure you have lined up the ball and feel good about the shot. Stay down and put a good stroke on every shot. Knowing you are going to pocket the balls takes a little more time. Good Luck. - Ray

Can you recommend any decent instructional videos that concentrate on basic techniques, stance, bridges, stroke, instead of shot making? - Columbia, SC

Steve Mizerak has a few tapes out about techniques in pool. You can call his office at 521-840-0048, and ask about the tapes, I am sure he can fix you up with something that fits your needs. Tell him I said "Hello!" - Ray

Describe your hand position for getting over/around balls on the table. - Denver, CO

You need to be comfortable with every shot, that is how I set up my hands. Try to work on this when practicing. Place balls in positions where it is hard to make a bridge, get used to your comfort levels. - Ray

When aiming a shot what should I focus on, the cue ball or the object ball? - Jacksonville, NC

It would be a little hard for you to make the shot looking at the cue ball at impact. I look at the object ball most. - Ray

What is the best way to break? - State College, PA

It depends on your skill level. I break from the left side of the "D." About one diamond off the left side and right on the line, I think it opens the rack more than the second ball break. If you don't run out as well as the other guy, you might be better off using the second ball break. This tends to keep the balls bunched up and shows the game down. - Ray

I seem to make the most incredible shots such as triple combos, extreme angles and banks with relative ease but when it comes to the most simple shots I always seem to choke at the most inopportune times. Do you have any advice? - West Chester, PA

A lot of people make the tough shots because they a put a stroke on the hard shots. When you slow your stroke down for a simple shot your nerves will take over. Stay down and make sure you are putting the same stroke on the simple shots and don't be too careful not to screw up just let the stroke happen. - Ray

I keep seeing the term "cheat the pocket." What does this mean? - Rio Rancho, NM

It is when you aim at the right or the left of the pocket. You do this to create an angle for shape. - Ray

What is the last thing you look at before making your shot, the cue ball or the object ball? - Hampstead, NC

The object ball, but it's pretty close. - Ray

Your opponent only needs to make a few shots to win the match, while you need those shots plus a couple of racks to win. Do you play more defense or offense? - Odessa, FL

If your opponent is at the table, offense is out. If I need to shake things up I might go for a big shot if I can win the game off it. A few games back is just one mistake and I would keep my head and just try to take advantage of the opportunities to come. - Ray

What do you recommend to cure the problem of "popping up" before a shot is completed? - Albuquerque, NM

Try the following practice drill: Set up about 100 shot straight in shot and us low English with a slow stroke. This will make you stay down longer on the shots. If this doesn't help, you know what the problem is and try to come up with your own drill to work on the stroke. - Ray

I am having control problems. I practice up to three times a week but my stroke has been the same for the last three years. What can I do to sharpen my stroke? - St. Louis, MO

Play on the big tables and try to work on low English. Low is a big part of the game; the pros use it about 75% of their shots. The big table will let you see the table better. Patterns may be your problem not your stroke, this will help both. - Ray

I have been having a hard time with 9-Ball. I can run the rack to the 7-ball or 8-ball, then I miss and my opponent just has to make one or two balls for the win. How can I get over this problem? - Hickory, NC

Keep your head down and make a good stroke on every ball. The nine is just one more ball on the table. If you keep playing you will start making all of them. Look at the nine like it's the seven, if the shot is to hard think "safe." Maybe you are to offensive minded and go for some shots you shouldn't. - Ray

I recently read in a pool book that it is best to use an open bridge when breaking. What do you recommend? - Cleveland, OH

What! Burn that book. Always use a closed bridge; it will help with the power and the follow through. - Ray

When playing APA 8-Ball I like to make a defensive shot if I can gain ball-in-hand. I seem to win more with this approach then if I try and make a difficult shot say at first, or if I don't see a good run. Is this bad over all for my game or just a good strategy? - Baltimore, MD

That is the way to play. You must play the odds, if the shot might cost you the game play safe. - Ray

My game is getting better and better but the only thing I am still have a problem with is my leave. How can I work on this? - Eddystone, PA

Keep trying hard it will come. - Ray

How did you perfect your stroke? I seem to not be able to hit a ball straight sometimes. Is there so training or practice tips you could give me? - Meriden, CT

I used a 20 oz. coke bottle on a table and practiced stroking in the bottle until I could hit the bottom of the bottle without hit the rim. - Ray

I play every day and still don't know how English works. People have told me left is right and right is left. - Dillon, SC

Right makes the cue ball turn to the left and left turns the ball to the right. This is something you need to slow down and watch when you practice. Keep working on it; it will come. - Ray

What do you look at the first and last, the cue ball or the object ball? - Pine Ridge, SD

I look at the object ball first and last. - Ray

What is the secret to a power draw? - Roscommon, MI

Timing, make sure you hit the cue ball where you want. - Ray

When I practice ½ hour per day I start to get better for about 2 weeks, then all of the sudden I get worse. ½ hour can't be too much can it? - Mesa, AZ

It's not enough. You always seem to hit a wall when you are getting better. I like to think of it as if you are playing better mentally; I would like to see you practice two hours a day, three times a week and 1/2 hour the other days. You keep hitting the balls and if you have hair after a year you should be fine. - Ray

How many times do you get to use a push in a 9-Ball game? - Arvada, CO

The first shot after the break of each game; push on! - Ray

Should a person use defense as much as possible even if there a chance you could run out if you are an average player going against an equal or better player? - Ashland, NE

The best defense is a great offense. - Ray

Should a player who's been playing for a number of years try to correct faults, such as hitting the cue off center when "aiming at the center? Or should they allow for the stroke error and make it part of there technique? - Elkhart, IN

The better the stroke the more consistent you will be. Work on the stroke and you will play better. - Ray

What's the best way to break in an 8-Ball game? - Winona, MN

I like to break from the first diamond right on the left head string. This gives me more of an opportunity to make a ball and run out. I've tried the second ball break and found that the balls tend to stay in groups making it harder to run out. - Ray

I'm having trouble figuring out how to line up a shot when I want to put right or left-hand English on the cue ball. Any tips? - New Providence, NJ

Shoot some balls using only middle English and try to hit the center of the pocket after you feel like you are hitting the pocket where you are aiming move over to the right side of the cue ball and shot the same shot and watch where the object ball hits the back of the pocket. This will give you an ideal how much the object ball is moving from your aiming line. - Ray

Is there a certain way to place the balls when racking? - Duson, LA

You need to have a solid and a stripe on the corners, eight in the middle and any ball in the front. Most players use the one ball in front on all games. - Ray

I am a 7. Every match I play whether it is against a 2 or another 7 I ALWAYS lose the first game. I get mad (inside) and go on to win the set. It's rare that anyone wins more than one or two games. Why do I always lose the first game? I play in another league that has players of equal levels. That league you shoot one game and wait. I again always lose the first and sometimes 2nd game. How can I stop this? - Rochester, NY

Don't let it get to you and try to just play and have fun. You might want to slow down and make sure do don't try to push the play and let things happen. If I'm playing someone I know I should beat really bad, I make sure before I make a move that will open the table up, I make sure I can get out. Why over work the game and try to get out when in most cases you will get two or more shots. If you turn the game into a thinking game the better your chances. - Ray

With the SARDO Tight Rack now being used almost worldwide, there is consistency in racking already. I have followed many tournaments and world class players; they have been consistent in pocketing the 1-ball in the side pocket in a 9-Ball break, positioning the cue ball about 5 inches from the side rail. How do they do this? Where is the line of contact in the 1-ball? - St. Paul, MN

The line is a straight line from the cue ball through the rack. Most players think you hit the front of the 1-ball. That is true if you place the cue ball in the middle of the table and shoot straight. To make the one, you need to hit the head ball with the right speed and make contact on the side of the head ball or the one ball in 9-Ball. - Ray

I'd like to know more about English use and how it's applied to the ball. - Belleville, IL

If you like to be the best, then you know it takes work not words. English on the cue ball has a signature of your own. I could tell you the basics like low to draw and high to follow the shot but it is all up to you and your stroke. I can hit the cue ball with middle and stop the cue ball or make it follow three inches. It has a lot to do with the stroke you hit the ball with as well as where you hit the cue ball. Try different speeds as well as different tip position and you will master the cue and the game if you work on it. - Ray