Pool Rules
In Ten-Ball, Calling a Shot Changes What a Lucky Pocket Means
In WPA ten-ball, calling the intended ball and pocket matters. Learn how a successful-looking shot can still hand the choice to your opponent.
AT THE TABLE
Journal
Snooker Basics
Touching Ball in Snooker Changes the Shot You Are Allowed to Play
Understand the basic touching-ball situation in snooker, why the ball on matters, and why playing away requires care rather than a forceful stroke.
Snooker Basics
A Snooker Free Ball Changes Which Ball Can Stand In for the Ball On
Understand what a snooker free ball allows, why the referee awards it, and how its scoring differs from an ordinary colour.
Pool Rules in Practice
A Scratch on the Eight-Ball Break Is Not Automatically a Lost Game
WPA eight-ball treats the opening break differently from later shots. Check the break provisions before calling a scratch an automatic loss.
Snooker Basics
A Re-Spotted Black in Snooker Turns a Tied Frame Into a New Decision
Understand why the black returns after a tied snooker frame, how the next player is chosen and why the opening shot is a tactical decision.
Snooker Basics
In Snooker, the Colours Follow a Different Order After the Last Red
Follow the transition from red-and-colour scoring to the final colour sequence in snooker, including the colour immediately after the last red.
Pool Fundamentals
Lagging for the Break Is a Different Skill From Breaking Hard
Practise lagging as a speed-control shot, then check the competition rules before using it to decide the first break.
Pool Practice
A Cue Ball Touching a Cushion Needs a Rule Check Before the Shot
Inspect a ball that appears frozen to a rail and agree the applicable pool rule before taking the shot.
Pool Rules in Practice
Call the Pocket Before an Eight-Ball Shot Needs an Explanation
Understand call-shot eight-ball by identifying the intended ball and pocket before an ambiguous shot, using the rules agreed for the game.