How to Aim in Billiards: 5 Simple Steps for Beginners
TLDR: To aim, find where the object ball must be hit to go in the pocket. Picture a “ghost ball” there. Line up your body behind that line. Keep your stroke straight. Then practice cut shots until it feels natural.
What you will learn:
- How to find the contact point
- How to use the ghost ball method
- How your body and stroke affect aim
- A drill to get better
Aiming is the question I hear most. I have played pool for more than 50 years and in leagues and tournaments for more than 38 years. I can tell you this. Good aim is part method and part practice. Here is the method.
Step 1: Find the Line to the Pocket
Stand behind the object ball. That is the ball you want to sink. Look from the pocket through the center of the ball. The spot on the back of the ball, on that line, is the contact point. That is where the cue ball must hit it.
Step 2: Picture the Ghost Ball
Now picture a second ball touching the object ball at the contact point. This make-believe ball is the “ghost ball.” Your job is to send the cue ball to the exact spot where the ghost ball sits. Aim the center of the cue ball at the center of the ghost ball.
This is a common way to aim, and it is a good one for beginners.
Step 3: Line Up Your Body
Stand behind the cue ball. Look at the ghost ball. Then step into your stance with your eyes still on the line. Your cue, your back arm, and your eye should all sit on that line. Many misses come from standing off line, not from bad aim.
Step 4: Keep the Stroke Straight
You can aim perfectly and still miss if the cue moves sideways. Keep your grip loose. Keep your head still. Swing only your forearm. Follow through straight toward the ghost ball.
Step 5: Practice Cut Shots
Aim is learned by doing. Try this drill:
- Put an object ball about a foot from a corner pocket.
- Put the cue ball straight behind it. Shoot five.
- Move the cue ball a little to one side for a small cut. Shoot five.
- Move it more for a wider cut. Shoot five.
- Do the same on the other side.
Count how many you make. Write it down. Try to beat it next time.
Common Aiming Mistakes
- Aiming at the object ball’s center. That only works on straight shots.
- Moving your head. Your eyes change the line.
- Rushing. Take a breath before you shoot.
- Hitting too hard. Slower shots go in more often while you learn.
When You Miss
If you miss to the same side often, check your stance and stroke first. Film yourself from behind. Is your cue going straight? Does your head move? Fix that, then work on aim again.
Learn More
I show aiming on my YouTube channel. I also have free lessons in my Pool School.
FAQ
What is the easiest way to aim in pool?
For many beginners, the ghost ball method is the easiest to learn.
Should I look at the cue ball or the object ball when I shoot?
Many players look at the object ball last, as they stroke. Try it and see what works for you.
Why do I keep missing thin cuts?
Thin cuts are hard for everyone. Practice them slowly, and check that you stay still.
How long does it take to aim well?
It takes steady practice. You will see progress in weeks, and keep getting better for years.
Summary
How to aim in billiards: find the contact point, picture the ghost ball, line up your body, keep your stroke straight, and practice cut shots. Do it step by step and your aim will improve.
About the Author
I am Ted Mauro. I have played pool for more than 50 years and in leagues and tournaments for more than 38 years.