Pool Rules
In eight-ball, a combination still has to begin with a legal first contact
In WPA eight-ball, potting your called ball does not excuse contacting the wrong group first. Follow the cue ball before judging a combination.
AT THE TABLE
eight ball
Pool Rules
After the eight-ball break, the table may still be open
Under WPA eight-ball rules, potting a ball on the break does not automatically assign solids or stripes. Learn how an open table becomes assigned.
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.
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.
Rules & Etiquette
Before the Break: The Pool Rules Worth Agreeing Out Loud
Avoid common disagreements by naming the pool discipline, choosing a rules source and settling practical table arrangements before play begins.