Pool

In the 8-ball pool, players compete to pocket all their designated balls (solids or stripes) and then legally pocket the 8-ball to win.

How to Play

1. Setup:
   • Rack the balls in a triangle at the foot of the table, with the 8-ball in the center. The front ball (apex) is placed on the foot spot.
   • One striped ball and one solid ball must be at the corners of the rack.
2. Break Shot:
   • One player performs the break shot. The cue ball must hit the rack, and at least one ball must be pocketed or four balls must touch the rails.
   • If the 8-ball is pocketed on the break, the player can request a re-rack or spot the 8-ball and continue.
3. Determining Groups (Solids or Stripes):
   • The table is "open" until a player legally pockets a ball. After that, the player is assigned solids or stripes based on the first legally pocketed ball.
4. Gameplay:
   • Players take turns. On each turn, they must hit their group of balls first and attempt to pocket them.
   • A turn continues as long as the player legally pockets a ball.
   • If a player fails to hit their group of balls, scratches (cue ball falls into a pocket), or commits a foul, their turn ends, and the opponent takes over.
5. Winning:
   • After all their group of balls is pocketed, the player must pocket the 8-ball in a called pocket.
   • If a player accidentally pockets the 8-ball before clearing their group, or commits a foul while attempting to pocket the 8-ball, they lose.

How to Win

• Legally pocket all your assigned balls (solids or stripes).
• Call and successfully pocket the 8-ball in the designated pocket.

Tips for Beginners

1. Control the Cue Ball:
   Focus on hitting the cue ball with control to set up your next shot. Avoid hitting too hard.
2. Plan Your Shots:
   Think a few steps ahead to position the cue ball for easy shots.
3. Practice Your Aim:
   Line up your shots carefully. Use the cue stick and your dominant eye to align with the target.
4. Learn Basic Spin:
   Experiment with hitting the cue ball slightly above, below, or to the sides to control how it moves after contact.
5. Watch the Rules:
   Avoid scratching (hitting the cue ball into a pocket) or fouling by not hitting your group of balls first.
6. Stay Calm:
   Pool requires focus and patience. Take your time and breathe before each shot.

Enjoy the game and remember: practice makes perfect!