That is nice of you to suggest, but I am not a pro player, nor do I play close to pro level. I am a professional instructor and don't work on my game enough to reach that level (and I'm too old).
@@DrDaveBilliards So there's an aiming system I like that I made up when I was twenty 23. I go from the edge of the cue ball closest to middle of table and look at that line between it and the object ball edge closest to rail then I split that line down the middle. After I find my contact point standing strait up. That way I have two references to aim at at once. Then I split the cue from the top into a quarter ball from the top and I've got three aiming references per shot On hard cuts there isn't a better way in my opinion.
Thanks Dave, I am 62 and started back up playing with a 40 year old neighbour.i am good but still stuffed up and I am left handed, but still can play shots but you have given me an edge that I can start winning again, just for fun of course, and mainly say that a 62 year old can still play the game and wind knew I was off, just not hitting the cue ball properly, now I will have a chance to play the shots again, i play for all the over 60's that we can take it up to the younger generations.Me I play or dance to say we invented playing snooker billiards and Disco and we aren't done yet,Thats Dave now I know what I am doing wrong and now I can put it right.Thank You Dave for all the oldies that can still play.
This is more information than I can absorb at my skill level, right now. I'll be revisiting this video at least once per month after every 30 - 40 practice sessions. I'm excited to see how I'll comprehend the explanations you gave, after each monthly group of reps. Thank you for the well structured and easy to follow content. You're an excellent teacher.
Excellent explanations. You are a natural teacher. Obviously, I will go over every routine many times until I dominate the skill. I watch different videos from very good players who teach, but you are NUMER 1. THANK YOU VERY MUCH.
@@DrDaveBilliards It's been over 2yrs. I've practiced several of your drills daily (I have a Connelly Regulation 8ft table). Specifically, I have practiced some of the material in this video in every practice session. My game has improved a lot. Thank you very much Dr. Dave.
I have a 32% accuracy currently on 9 ball. I been playing for 13 years. I have never been taught to aim. Now taking the time actually get better. I love pool. Its the best way to relax! Thank you soooooo much on the video!
Excellent! Proving video after video that you are THE premier source for both practical and theoretical pool information on the internet. Thanks for your efforts and generosity.
My gratitude goes to you for keeping the content flowing Dr Dave. This video will help a lot learners like myself stay focused on improving even when away from a table!
I'm glad you liked it. FYI, I have a lot of advice for other things you can do for your game with no access to a table here: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/advice/practicing-with-no-table/ Enjoy!
I just love your videos. I’m always striving to be a better pool player and with your videos, I have definitely upped my game. I learn something new each time I watch your vids. I save them to watch over and over. I always look forward to seeing new videos, and even older videos of yours I’ve never seen. Glad I subscribed to your channel! Anyone who wants to be a better player should do the same.
Thanks for these videos. They are very helpful I honed my aiming by using the cue to mark the spot on the object ball and kept my eye on that spot while shooting. It took a while but now I allow my intuition to make the necessary adjustments while keeping my eye on the object ball. All those other methods were very confusing. One tip I did get from this video is the banking estimating the spot on the rail then finding the middle point between the cue using that line and going directly to the rail. I will be practicing that as it seems intuitive once you get use to it.
Very informative Dave! I never thought of using a "ghost rail" technique! I also appreciated how careful you were to never take your hand off your cue stick while it is on the table.
OMG, Doctor Dave. Aiming with Cue Pivot has DRASTICALLY improved my game. Some tricky shots that I consistently just can't see the path to the pocket have now become, like, 20 times easier to make. The technique actually helps me to more clearly visual the path to the pocket. Can't thank you enough for this tip. (Although, my opponents aren't going to like you much anymore lol)
@@DrDaveBilliards ...Wow Dr. Dave. I mean just WOW!!...I don't mean to be a nuisance, but was just practicing and ran TWO straight racks (both times first solid then stripes), in NO SMALL part due to your "Cue Pivot" technique. At my level of play that is a Herculean task. Don't mean to repeat myself, but I just can't thank you enough for helping me bring my game to the next level.
Just wanted to say thank you! I didn"t start playing until august of 21 and I'm not joking! I have fallen in love with this game! it is beautiful and maddening, I enjoy your videos they really have made me better and look at all my shot's in a different aspect .thanks for your help
My parents were telling me for years that using the cue to help aim would help tremendously, I never listened. Now at 27 years old I watched this video and finally started trying to use the cue to help line up my shots and it literally makes a world of a difference on all of my shots. I wish I would've followed this advice sooner lol. Thanks for the great video
... then you would probably like the videos and info here: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/aiming/dam/#advice and here: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/eyes/vision-center/ and here: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/eyes/ Enjoy!
What I really need is a pool table in my house to help me be more successful But another great video by DrDave, excellent camera angles and great explanations
Excellent instructional video! Very well prepared and I've already improved my aim using several methods described in this video. Thank you very, very much!
And I have a really long list of future videos I still want to do. The list keeps getting longer, not shorter. This is a great game with endless learning.
I have played pool for about 5 months, since then I've always watch your videos to improve my skills. Thanks Dave. My skills have improved a bit, but still far below you. I wish I could be like you in the future. You are so good
You're welcome. FYI, I have lots of help for beginners and lower intermediate players here: billiards.colostate.edu/beginner-help/ Good luck with your game!
As a beginner, I found cutting blind into a side pocket easier but using top or top right spin if I know I undercut alot. It's thanks to your video about SIT and it has helped me tremendously. Thanks for all the videos Dr Dave!!!
You're welcome. FYI, I have advice for how to work on your game, even without a table, here: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/advice/practicing-with-no-table/
You're welcome. I'm glad you liked it. FYI, many more useful videos, info, and links dealing with aiming can be found here: billiards.colostate.edu/tutorial/how-to-aim/ Enjoy!
Thank you Dr! My son graduates this year from UCSD (mechanical engineering) and I'm getting him interested in pool. I hope to have a Doctor Dave in my family 😊
Thank you for this video, I think it'll really help me. Although I've been learning strategies and practicing for a long time now, I still struggle with just making shots at all
Great information, I plan on watching these videos multiple times. As usual, it boils down to math, and geometry.. with a bit of physics tosses in for good measure... :)
I thought at first that undercutting the ball is better than overcutting because I always feel disappointed when I overcut the ball. I thought that I overestimate the angle but you pointed me out that it is reasonable to be like that. Now I know overcut is better than undercut. Great video as always! Keep it up!
When you over-cut a ball, it’s on the “pro” side. Under-cutting a ball is the “amateur” side. Plus, most time over cutting a ball leaves your opponent a tougher shot than if you had undercut it. Always better to over cut a ball in your mind. Most of the time you’ll make the ball, to your surprise. This is my experience.
I use the ghost rail method. Very accurate. Also in adding depending on the placement of the object ball I use left or right side of the pocket based upon speed of the shot. The cue ball as well as object ball cling together for an instant. That instant can also determine if I under cut or over cut the shot. Thank you.....
Good point. All aiming methods need to account for throw, especially with the types of shots listed at the bottom of the page here: billiards.colostate.edu/tutorial/throw/
I love your videos. Especially since I can't practice as much being swamped with assignments, these videos keep me decently sharp for league once a week lol
@@DrDaveBilliards Looking forward! The amount of effort you put into these videos with filming, playing, and of course editing, is truly inspiring! It's ton of work! Thank you for the awesome content.
I NEED THIS Aiming guide, I have been trying to master my fundamentals such as stroke, wrist movement, follow through, etc. But one of my biggest problem is the aiming part, I tend to be inconsistent with pocketing balls. Thank you Dr Dave!
I'm an above average pool player, but i never knew how to read what the tangent line was to where the cue would go to. That's going to up my game big time. I always just guessed where it would lie, thanks!
I struggled with obtuse angle shots. I can hit them up the rail all day long. The cue stick rail idea looks great. As I play better players (I'm a 4 but my team has me play 5s and 6s because I'll often win or at least score points) I'll get snookered way more often. It frustrates me that I can't see the kick angle very well. The system of making one side of an isosceles triangle to find the bank point I can totally understand. Hopefully it'll help me. I need it. Your videos are the best!
Ghost ball is my method and is the best method IMO. I learned it on ESPN, Allen Hopkins would give pointers in little clips, he showed the ghost ball and I learned it at 13 or 14. It was such a good tip and made me a good shooter from then on... Ghost ball is necessary to use on combos, so you can't go without it overall. And it means you never need to do any strange math systems to calculate your zone and which fraction of a ball or where the balls contact. Also it gives you ONE SINGLE REFERENCE for all shots, so you can make all your extra adjustments lit CIT and SIT and deflection based on only one reference.... So one single aiming point no matter where you are, so simple. I find that all the crazy systems like Poolology or CTE or fractional or edge of cue systems ARE TRICKS and don't allow you to learn much about why you missed or whether CIT or SIT screwed you.
Most good players visualize the ghost ball, whether they know it or admit it, or not. But a purposeful and consistent pre-shot routine is just as important in the aiming process, per all the info here: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/aiming/dam/#advice
This is great. it outlines one of the techniques I use to aim and made clear the goal. I also use a system where I look at the shot line contact point and the stright on line contact point and mirror that angle to the opposite side of the shot line contact point on the object ball and aim with the center of the q-stick to that point.If your stroke is correct and with a good understanding of cut induced throw the shot goes in perfectly. If anyone is interested I could post a video. It would be great to meet you han have you analyze my routine.
If you have a video link, feel free to post it here. FYI, there are many possible variations of "ghost ball," "contact-point," and "double distance" aiming like this. Many are covered here: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/aiming/
Went to the pool hall tonight. My friends kept asking me why I was throwing a peace sign at the pool table. At least the system helped me put a hanging 9 into the pocket off the 1 ball ;)
@@abrehamhaile7722 FYI, I already have lots of videos and info on lots of different aiming systems here: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/aiming/ The one I recommend, which is how most top players aim, is DAM: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/aiming/dam/#advice Enjoy!
Hi we always urgue about a rule here for example if I break and pot a ball then go on and pot all my colors is it game over or I must pot the black one too?
So, well explained, if I was 20 years younger and I thought I was already a hustler. I won't join a league yet and become that hustler. It's been years since I played pool, recently, I started playing with a friend who was semi-professional. I've forgotten how addictive of a game it is. I find it to be an incredibly fascinating game.
@@DrDaveBilliards being 38, it's so much easier to almost learn anything now. The only problem now is there's so much to learn... people are overwhelmed by choices. Again, thank you for this video. I'm going to practice your techniques. Furthermore, your ability to explain why certain shots appear equal in difficulty but are not adds why I've missed so many shots in the past. You've probably just saved me several hundred hours of relearning critical thinking in shots. I will have to watch this video, at least, 20-30 times more to fully understand how information you've conveyed here. You're a pool scholar, sir.
Willie Mosconis aiming method is overlooked by many. He bisected the cue ball, then cut each half into quarters. If you're contact point is hitting 12.5% of the object ball, then 12.5% of the cue ball is also the contact point. It gives more to look at than a ghost ball.
FYI, I have many aiming systems documented here: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/aiming/ What you describe sounds similar to “fractional-ball aiming” or “contact point to contact point aiming.”
Been getting back into pool the past few weeks. Totally had forgotten that you control the angle of the final cue ball direction with top and bottom spin. I was trying to control it with side spin with bad results :D
That is a common misconception. For more info about CB control, see the videos and info here: billiards.colostate.edu/tutorial/cue-ball-control/ And to learn why and how sidespin is used effectively, see the videos and info here: billiards.colostate.edu/tutorial/sidespin/ Enjoy!
You can use side to alter the angle of the cue ball, you just need to practice playing the shot. I play on UK tables so the ball is lighter, I can cut a ball (shallow angle) into the centre and have the cue ball return to near its original position (back spin with side) An easy example is playing a ball straight at a cushion, put side on the ball and it heads in direction of the spin.
@@joebloggs1317 Sidespin has many uses, including changing angles off the cushions and throwing balls in. Many examples are documented and demonstrated here: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/sidespin/examples/ Concerning ball-weight difference effects, check out the videos and info here: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/ball/weight/
Thanks so much DrDave! Can I please ask, which material would be best to print onto for your ghost ball template? I'd like to print onto a clear sheet that is equally as thin as paper but more rigid. Would synthetic paper or card stock work best?
... obviously, not in a game, but definitely during practice to help drill a wide range of angles to help train your brain what the aim should look like for a wide range of shots. :)
I cover these and many other common and useful kicking and banking diamond systems in detail, with lots of demonstrations, here: billiards.colostate.edu/tutorial/kicks-and-banks/ Enjoy!
I was hoping you would cover Shane Van Boenings ferrule aiming system. It's a very popular system among those who understand it but myself and many other have a hard time visualizing the way the system works.
Honestly, I am not a fan of imprecise "systems" like that, and I honestly doubt that's how Shane actually aims. FYI, I have more info on that system here: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/aiming/shaft-edge/
@@DrDaveBilliards There are several video clips of him stating that it is his aiming system along with additional video clips of him attempting to explain it. He probably aims by feel and intuition due to his amount of experience he possesses. Nevertheless, he still claims it as his system for aiming.
@prjct7 I have heard the interviews with Shane where he attempts to explain how he aims. However, if he really aimed exactly how he explains it, he would miss many shots that he doesn't miss. I suspect Shane actually aims more like most top players do: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/aiming/dam/#advice They don't really use "aiming systems" that people like to talk about.
Great content Dr., I always have a concern when using ghost-ball aiming system and that is it does not compensate for cut-induced throw. Is my concern valid? What aiming system do you personally use? I keep changing my aiming system for different shots depending on the distances and cut angles. Your answer is greatly appreciated.
Ghost-ball aiming is fine if you account for throw when necessary (by adjusting the ghost-ball position). Info on how and when to do this can be found at the bottom of the page here: billiards.colostate.edu/tutorial/throw/ I use DAM: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/aiming/dam/#advice which is the way most top players aim, and it is a good way to learn.
*Table of Contents:*
0:00 - Intro
0:35 ---- Rail Cut vs. Back Cut
2:42 - 1 - Visualize the Contact Point
3:16 - 2 - See the Angle
4:05 - 3 - Visualize a Ghost Rail
5:05 - 4 - Visualize the Ghost Ball
6:12 - 5 - Aim with Cue Pivot
7:15 - 6 - Visualize the Tangent Line
8:53 - 7 - Visualize the Natural Angle
10:46 - 8 - Use Bob’s Natural Angle Cue Trick
11:59 - 9 - Visualize Draw Shot Direction
12:54 - 10 - Visualize Full-Hit CB Direction
13:29 - 11 - Visualize Extended Diamond Distances
14:27 - 12 - Visualize One-Rail Kicks
15:34 - Wrap Up
15:58 ---- system montage
*Supporting Resources:*
Intro
- cue gymnastics: facebook.com/ILoveMartialArts.ca/videos/484755949019669
- Tom Cruise’s “Werewolves of London” scene from the “Color of Money”: ruclips.net/video/ZrjSqK7xPLE/видео.html
- how to replace a cue tip: ruclips.net/video/ta5M0uCKkZU/видео.html
- effective size of the pocket at different angles: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/pocket/size-and-center/
1 - Visualize the Contact Point:
- billiards.colostate.edu/faq/aiming/contact-point/
4 - Visualize the Ghost Ball:
- billiards.colostate.edu/faq/aiming/ghost-ball/
- billiards.colostate.edu/tutorial/throw/
6 - Visualize the Tangent Line:
- billiards.colostate.edu/faq/stun/90-degree-rule/
7 - Visualize the Natural Angle:
- billiards.colostate.edu/faq/30-90-rules/30-degree-rule/
- billiards.colostate.edu/faq/30-90-rules/peace-sign/
9 - Visualize Draw Shot Direction:
- billiards.colostate.edu/faq/draw/trisect/
10 - Visualize Full-Hit CB Direction:
- billiards.colostate.edu/faq/cue-ball-control/where-cb-goes/
11 - Visualize Extended Diamond Distances:
- billiards.colostate.edu/faq/bank-kick/
- billiards.colostate.edu/faq/bank-kick/fast-system/
12 - Visualize One-Rail Kicks:
- billiards.colostate.edu/faq/bank-kick/mirror/
Wrap Up:
- drdavebilliards.com/aiming/
- billiards.colostate.edu/faq/aiming/
Ereeeeereeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeess we DD ez ds
You are a very good teacher!!!!😂
@@toymakertoo Thank you! That's what I've done my whole life, so I should be decent at it by now. :)
I wish I had these videos when I was a beginner. Your videos have literally filled in all the gaps I was missing. Much appreciated.
I'm glad to hear it. Good luck with your game.
You truly have the best online tutorials I've ever seen. Thank you so much
Thank you, and you're welcome. I aim to swerve. :)
agree
DR. DAVE FOR MOSCONI CUP 2021! 🙋♂️
Interesting 🧐
Lol he has no chance . But would he fun just to see how good he does
That is nice of you to suggest, but I am not a pro player, nor do I play close to pro level. I am a professional instructor and don't work on my game enough to reach that level (and I'm too old).
@@DrDaveBilliards So there's an aiming system I like that I made up when I was twenty 23. I go from the edge of the cue ball closest to middle of table and look at that line between it and the object ball edge closest to rail then I split that line down the middle. After I find my contact point standing strait up. That way I have two references to aim at at once. Then I split the cue from the top into a quarter ball from the top and I've got three aiming references per shot On hard cuts there isn't a better way in my opinion.
Thanks Dave, I am 62 and started back up playing with a 40 year old neighbour.i am good but still stuffed up and I am left handed, but still can play shots but you have given me an edge that I can start winning again, just for fun of course, and mainly say that a 62 year old can still play the game and wind knew I was off, just not hitting the cue ball properly, now I will have a chance to play the shots again, i play for all the over 60's that we can take it up to the younger generations.Me I play or dance to say we invented playing snooker billiards and Disco and we aren't done yet,Thats Dave now I know what I am doing wrong and now I can put it right.Thank You Dave for all the oldies that can still play.
I’m glad to hear it. Continued good luck with your game.
This is more information than I can absorb at my skill level, right now. I'll be revisiting this video at least once per month after every 30 - 40 practice sessions. I'm excited to see how I'll comprehend the explanations you gave, after each monthly group of reps. Thank you for the well structured and easy to follow content. You're an excellent teacher.
Thank you. I hope it helps over time. Good luck with your game!
Well 11 months later... how's your game now?
Excellent explanations. You are a natural teacher. Obviously, I will go over every routine many times until I dominate the skill. I watch different videos from very good players who teach, but you are NUMER 1. THANK YOU VERY MUCH.
@@scottilewis3753 I've seen significant improvement. Thanks for asking.
@@DrDaveBilliards It's been over 2yrs. I've practiced several of your drills daily (I have a Connelly Regulation 8ft table). Specifically, I have practiced some of the material in this video in every practice session. My game has improved a lot. Thank you very much Dr. Dave.
I have a 32% accuracy currently on 9 ball. I been playing for 13 years. I have never been taught to aim. Now taking the time actually get better. I love pool. Its the best way to relax! Thank you soooooo much on the video!
You’re welcome. I hope the video helps you increase that 32% a little.
Excellent! Proving video after video that you are THE premier source for both practical and theoretical pool information on the internet. Thanks for your efforts and generosity.
You're very welcome. Thank you for the kind and well-written feedback!
Damnation…this video has helped a beginner like me immensely in cue ball trajectories and shot making skills…thanks so much Dr Dave!
You’re welcome. I’m glad to hear it.
I wish there was youtube when I was learning. This is awesome. Thank you.
I wish all this info was available when I started also! I had to learn most of it the hard way.
My gratitude goes to you for keeping the content flowing Dr Dave. This video will help a lot learners like myself stay focused on improving even when away from a table!
I'm glad you liked it. FYI, I have a lot of advice for other things you can do for your game with no access to a table here:
billiards.colostate.edu/faq/advice/practicing-with-no-table/
Enjoy!
Pool is such an art and a science. So much to love and learn.
Well stated. I agree.
Thanks for this video. Your imaginary rails gave me back my sure shot aiming I had when I was in my twenties. Amazing the difference
You're welcome. I'm glad to hear it.
I love the HAMB system. It's clearly the best way.
I just love your videos. I’m always striving to be a better pool player and with your videos, I have definitely upped my game. I learn something new each time I watch your vids. I save them to watch over and over. I always look forward to seeing new videos, and even older videos of yours I’ve never seen. Glad I subscribed to your channel! Anyone who wants to be a better player should do the same.
I'm glad to hear it. Thanks for the comments. And continued good luck with your game!
Thanks for these videos. They are very helpful
I honed my aiming by using the cue to mark the spot on the object ball and kept my eye on that spot while shooting. It took a while but now I allow my intuition to make the necessary adjustments while keeping my eye on the object ball. All those other methods were very confusing. One tip I did get from this video is the banking estimating the spot on the rail then finding the middle point between the cue using that line and going directly to the rail. I will be practicing that as it seems intuitive once you get use to it.
FYI, more info and demos for that banking and kicking system can be found here:
billiards.colostate.edu/faq/bank-kick/mirror/
I hope it helps.
Thanks for making this Dave. Good stuff, nice delivery.
You're welcome, and thank you! I aim to swerve. :)
Very informative Dave! I never thought of using a "ghost rail" technique! I also appreciated how careful you were to never take your hand off your cue stick while it is on the table.
Thanks. Good eye catching my "legal" handling of the cue.
@@DrDaveBilliards Thanks. By the way, I am the same Michael who created the 4 Rail Hybrid Kicking System that you put on your website.
@@trailerwookie Cool.
OMG, Doctor Dave. Aiming with Cue Pivot has DRASTICALLY improved my game. Some tricky shots that I consistently just can't see the path to the pocket have now become, like, 20 times easier to make. The technique actually helps me to more clearly visual the path to the pocket. Can't thank you enough for this tip. (Although, my opponents aren't going to like you much anymore lol)
I'm glad to hear it. I hope your opponents really hate you. :)
@@DrDaveBilliards ...Wow Dr. Dave. I mean just WOW!!...I don't mean to be a nuisance, but was just practicing and ran TWO straight racks (both times first solid then stripes), in NO SMALL part due to your "Cue Pivot" technique. At my level of play that is a Herculean task. Don't mean to repeat myself, but I just can't thank you enough for helping me bring my game to the next level.
Again, you're welcome. I aim to swerve. :)
Just wanted to say thank you! I didn"t start playing until august of 21 and I'm not joking! I have fallen in love with this game! it is beautiful and maddening, I enjoy your videos they really have made me better and look at all my shot's in a different aspect .thanks for your help
I’m glad to hear it. You’re welcome. I aim to swerve. :)
Great teaching Dave I use this one to tighten up my game from time to time. God Bless
Thanks. I'm glad to hear it.
My parents were telling me for years that using the cue to help aim would help tremendously, I never listened. Now at 27 years old I watched this video and finally started trying to use the cue to help line up my shots and it literally makes a world of a difference on all of my shots. I wish I would've followed this advice sooner lol. Thanks for the great video
Parents were almost always right. The older we get, the more we realize it.
Best explanation for aiming so far!
I'm glad you think so.
I so much love the aspect on visualization
... then you would probably like the videos and info here:
billiards.colostate.edu/faq/aiming/dam/#advice
and here:
billiards.colostate.edu/faq/eyes/vision-center/
and here:
billiards.colostate.edu/faq/eyes/
Enjoy!
Always learning with the doctor.👍
I'm glad to hear it.
That cue pivot is genius
I'll tell Bob you think so.
What I really need is a pool table in my house to help me be more successful
But another great video by DrDave, excellent camera angles and great explanations
Get a used and possibly free barbox off of Craigslist and put it in the backyard if you have to!
Excellent instructional video! Very well prepared and I've already improved my aim using several methods described in this video. Thank you very, very much!
You’re welcome. I’m glad to hear it was helpful.
Ty sir Dave😁❤️👍 Im from Philippines 🇵🇭 im so proud keep doing it❤️
I’m amazed how you keep coming up with new videos. I wonder how many times you’ve instructed through every detail of a pool game.
And I have a really long list of future videos I still want to do. The list keeps getting longer, not shorter. This is a great game with endless learning.
@@DrDaveBilliards Dr Dave. You are a legend
@@MultiVicky123456 Thanks.
That montage. Great systems and Great Groove.
Thanks.
I have played pool for about 5 months, since then I've always watch your videos to improve my skills. Thanks Dave. My skills have improved a bit, but still far below you. I wish I could be like you in the future. You are so good
You're welcome. FYI, I have lots of help for beginners and lower intermediate players here:
billiards.colostate.edu/beginner-help/
Good luck with your game!
As a beginner, I found cutting blind into a side pocket easier but using top or top right spin if I know I undercut alot. It's thanks to your video about SIT and it has helped me tremendously. Thanks for all the videos Dr Dave!!!
You're welcome. I aim to swerve. :)
Wow! Simple and to the point!
Thanks!
You’re welcome. I aim to swerve. 🤓
Outstanding! Includes a few little known methods to improve your accuracy and position play. Important stuff to practice for the serious student.
Thanks! I'm glad you liked it.
Thanks Dr. Dave. Good solid instruction . I am glad I can at least watch pool if I cannot play it right now.
You're welcome. FYI, I have advice for how to work on your game, even without a table, here:
billiards.colostate.edu/faq/advice/practicing-with-no-table/
@@DrDaveBilliards Thanks so much. I appreciate your time and effort.
Thank you Dr Dave your demonstrating is very useful
You’re welcome. I’m glad you think so.
thank you for taking the time for educating us on all the aiming methods really appreciated it
You're welcome. I aim to swerve. :)
Excellent coaching !!! Thanks very much.👍👍👍
Thank you, and you're welcome!
Dr Dave just saved the lives of thousands of ceilings. 😁 Great video! Thank you Doctor!
If only I had listened to my own advice. :)
You’re welcome.
Wow thank u so much. This was very helpful as with all your other videos. Thanks 🙏🏽
You're welcome. I'm glad you liked it. FYI, many more useful videos, info, and links dealing with aiming can be found here:
billiards.colostate.edu/tutorial/how-to-aim/
Enjoy!
Great tips! You're such a good instructor! Thank you!
Thank you! And you're welcome! I aim to swerve. :)
Thank you Dr! My son graduates this year from UCSD (mechanical engineering) and I'm getting him interested in pool. I hope to have a Doctor Dave in my family 😊
I hope so too. Wish him well for me. Mechanical engineering and pool is a good combination, and I speak from experience.
@@DrDaveBilliards thank you sir, I will send him your well wishes 😊
A great resource of ideas Dave!
Thanks Nic! I hope you are doing well. Best regards!
Thank you for this video, I think it'll really help me. Although I've been learning strategies and practicing for a long time now, I still struggle with just making shots at all
I'm glad you liked it. It sounds like you should probably focus on your fundamentals:
billiards.colostate.edu/tutorial/fundamentals/
Great video. Comprehensive. Many thanks for your effort ❤
Thank you, and you're welcome. I aim to swerve. :)
A very useful video. Thanks Dave!
Thank you, and you're welcome. I aim to swerve. :)
Wow you are a good teacher. 👍👍
Thanks!
Improving every vid. Thanks.
I'm glad to hear it. You're welcome.
Great information, I plan on watching these videos multiple times. As usual, it boils down to math, and geometry.. with a bit of physics tosses in for good measure... :)
… and lots of smart practice!
This video is full package 👍👍
I'm glad you liked it.
This is brilliant.
Thanks! I hope you find it helpful in your game.
Best info I have seen. Very good
Thanks! I'm glad you think so.
Good stuff for us beginners,👍🏻
I thought at first that undercutting the ball is better than overcutting because I always feel disappointed when I overcut the ball. I thought that I overestimate the angle but you pointed me out that it is reasonable to be like that. Now I know overcut is better than undercut. Great video as always! Keep it up!
Another reason to overcut is sometimes cut-induced throw is more than you might expect.
I just got it the time you explained it. At least now I know what I can expect every time I execute shots. Thanks for the heads up!
When you over-cut a ball, it’s on the “pro” side. Under-cutting a ball is the “amateur” side. Plus, most time over cutting a ball leaves your opponent a tougher shot than if you had undercut it. Always better to over cut a ball in your mind. Most of the time you’ll make the ball, to your surprise. This is my experience.
thanks man, really helps my beginner playing style
You're welcome. FYI, I have lots of videos and other help for beginners here:
billiards.colostate.edu/beginner-help/
really appreciate it, im started to love playing pool even more
I use the ghost rail method. Very accurate. Also in adding depending on the placement of the object ball I use left or right side of the pocket based upon speed of the shot. The cue ball as well as object ball cling together for an instant. That instant can also determine if I under cut or over cut the shot. Thank you.....
Good point. All aiming methods need to account for throw, especially with the types of shots listed at the bottom of the page here:
billiards.colostate.edu/tutorial/throw/
I love your videos. Especially since I can't practice as much being swamped with assignments, these videos keep me decently sharp for league once a week lol
I'm glad to hear it. Continued good luck with your game.
Thanks Dave! Do you happen to have or could recommend a video on general table maintenance/ cleaning practices?
This is on my list. I should get to it within a month or two.
@@DrDaveBilliards Looking forward! The amount of effort you put into these videos with filming, playing, and of course editing, is truly inspiring! It's ton of work! Thank you for the awesome content.
@@Lamarvelous08 You're welcome. I aim to swerve. :)
@@Lamarvelous08 l pp
Your videos are very informative..thanks
I'm glad you like my stuff. You're welcome. I aim to swerve. :)
I NEED THIS Aiming guide, I have been trying to master my fundamentals such as stroke, wrist movement, follow through, etc. But one of my biggest problem is the aiming part, I tend to be inconsistent with pocketing balls. Thank you Dr Dave!
You're welcome. I hope it helps.
How is it going
Thanks for the video and tutorial.👍❤️
You're welcome. I aim to swerve. :)
I'm an above average pool player, but i never knew how to read what the tangent line was to where the cue would go to. That's going to up my game big time. I always just guessed where it would lie, thanks!
I’m glad to hear it. For more help with CB control, see the videos and info here:
billiards.colostate.edu/tutorial/cue-ball-control/
Enjoy!
A lots of great tips in a single video, thanks Dr. Dave!
I’m glad you think so. Your welcome.
nice dr dave ! thx
Thanks.
these is super informative and on point Doc thanks for sharing your techniques and fundamentals.💪☝😎🔥🙏
I'm glad you liked it, and you're welcome.
@@DrDaveBilliards yes i do Doc, i could add up those techniques and incorporates on my game. i'm just a typical pool player not an amateur or pro😅
Great details !
Thanks!
Great vid Sir 👍
Thanks!
thank you for your tips
You’re welcome.
Thank you for your great videos 👍🔥
You're welcome. I aim to swerve. :)
That aim with the cue pivot very nice. But you definitely gotta master how far away you need to place your pivot.
Good point. Bad tip placement gives you bad results.
thanks a lot for sharing, really helpful
You’re welcome. I’m glad you liked it.
another great video with great points!
at 5:44 i used a similar method for a BU exam1
Thanks! I use that technique (and every other technique in this video) at times, especially when a shot just doesn't "feel right."
another great video..thanks
Thank you ... and you're welcome.
Great to practice just for sport
I struggled with obtuse angle shots. I can hit them up the rail all day long. The cue stick rail idea looks great.
As I play better players (I'm a 4 but my team has me play 5s and 6s because I'll often win or at least score points) I'll get snookered way more often. It frustrates me that I can't see the kick angle very well. The system of making one side of an isosceles triangle to find the bank point I can totally understand. Hopefully it'll help me. I need it.
Your videos are the best!
I'm glad you liked it and I hope this stuff helps you improve.
Ghost ball is my method and is the best method IMO. I learned it on ESPN, Allen Hopkins would give pointers in little clips, he showed the ghost ball and I learned it at 13 or 14. It was such a good tip and made me a good shooter from then on... Ghost ball is necessary to use on combos, so you can't go without it overall. And it means you never need to do any strange math systems to calculate your zone and which fraction of a ball or where the balls contact. Also it gives you ONE SINGLE REFERENCE for all shots, so you can make all your extra adjustments lit CIT and SIT and deflection based on only one reference.... So one single aiming point no matter where you are, so simple. I find that all the crazy systems like Poolology or CTE or fractional or edge of cue systems ARE TRICKS and don't allow you to learn much about why you missed or whether CIT or SIT screwed you.
Most good players visualize the ghost ball, whether they know it or admit it, or not. But a purposeful and consistent pre-shot routine is just as important in the aiming process, per all the info here:
billiards.colostate.edu/faq/aiming/dam/#advice
Thanks Dr Dave after the 14 mos layoff im (Covid) rusty....Right on time!
I hope it helps.
good info. thanks
Thanks, and you're welcome. I aim to swerve. :)
After all the angles for a shot I know of, So now I need to know how too how to hit the Q ball for back spin, top spin & side spin?
This is great. it outlines one of the techniques I use to aim and made clear the goal. I also use a system where I look at the shot line contact point and the stright on line contact point and mirror that angle to the opposite side of the shot line contact point on the object ball and aim with the center of the q-stick to that point.If your stroke is correct and with a good understanding of cut induced throw the shot goes in perfectly.
If anyone is interested I could post a video.
It would be great to meet you han have you analyze my routine.
If you have a video link, feel free to post it here. FYI, there are many possible variations of "ghost ball," "contact-point," and "double distance" aiming like this. Many are covered here:
billiards.colostate.edu/faq/aiming/
@@DrDaveBilliards Thanks, have a great day.
Derek at the pool hall caught me using my well calibrated peace sign. He said hey, doin the Dr. Dave? 😂😂
I’m glad to hear it. Thanks for the report. Peace, brother. :)
Thanks coach
You're welcome, grasshopper.
Visualize ghost rail is the best i think
Dammit Dr. Dave would love to shoot with you. Keep up the good work
Went to the pool hall tonight. My friends kept asking me why I was throwing a peace sign at the pool table.
At least the system helped me put a hanging 9 into the pocket off the 1 ball ;)
I'm glad to hear it. If you want more info, see the videos here:
billiards.colostate.edu/faq/30-90-rules/30-degree-rule/
Peace, brother.
That was awesome
Thanks!
@@DrDaveBilliards make another video on different types of aiming techniques dave. Am glad about that.
@@abrehamhaile7722 FYI, I already have lots of videos and info on lots of different aiming systems here:
billiards.colostate.edu/faq/aiming/
The one I recommend, which is how most top players aim, is DAM:
billiards.colostate.edu/faq/aiming/dam/#advice
Enjoy!
Hi we always urgue about a rule here for example if I break and pot a ball then go on and pot all my colors is it game over or I must pot the black one too?
Hey Doc! Let me count the chalk marks on my ceiling... In my defense, not all from " Tom Cruisin' " 😎
So, well explained, if I was 20 years younger and I thought I was already a hustler. I won't join a league yet and become that hustler. It's been years since I played pool, recently, I started playing with a friend who was semi-professional. I've forgotten how addictive of a game it is. I find it to be an incredibly fascinating game.
Thanks. I'm glad you liked it. I also wish instructional stuff like this was available 20 years ago when I was learning the game!
@@DrDaveBilliards being 38, it's so much easier to almost learn anything now. The only problem now is there's so much to learn... people are overwhelmed by choices.
Again, thank you for this video. I'm going to practice your techniques. Furthermore, your ability to explain why certain shots appear equal in difficulty but are not adds why I've missed so many shots in the past. You've probably just saved me several hundred hours of relearning critical thinking in shots. I will have to watch this video, at least, 20-30 times more to fully understand how information you've conveyed here. You're a pool scholar, sir.
You're welcome, and thank you.
I hope your game continues to improve, and I hope my stuff continues to help.
Willie Mosconis aiming method is overlooked by many. He bisected the cue ball, then cut each half into quarters. If you're contact point is hitting 12.5% of the object ball, then 12.5% of the cue ball is also the contact point. It gives more to look at than a ghost ball.
FYI, I have many aiming systems documented here:
billiards.colostate.edu/faq/aiming/
What you describe sounds similar to “fractional-ball aiming” or “contact point to contact point aiming.”
@@DrDaveBilliards I'll check it out, thanks. The name sounds right. I doubt it had a name when Willie made his only book on pool.
Thanks for the link!
Great video. It's tough to play good pool when I'm aways in pain 😕 😞 😫 😪.
If you are talking about the types of pains I've had over the years, this stuff might help:
billiards.colostate.edu/faq/advice/exercise/
Been getting back into pool the past few weeks. Totally had forgotten that you control the angle of the final cue ball direction with top and bottom spin. I was trying to control it with side spin with bad results :D
That is a common misconception. For more info about CB control, see the videos and info here:
billiards.colostate.edu/tutorial/cue-ball-control/
And to learn why and how sidespin is used effectively, see the videos and info here:
billiards.colostate.edu/tutorial/sidespin/
Enjoy!
You can use side to alter the angle of the cue ball, you just need to practice playing the shot. I play on UK tables so the ball is lighter, I can cut a ball (shallow angle) into the centre and have the cue ball return to near its original position (back spin with side)
An easy example is playing a ball straight at a cushion, put side on the ball and it heads in direction of the spin.
@@joebloggs1317 Sidespin has many uses, including changing angles off the cushions and throwing balls in. Many examples are documented and demonstrated here:
billiards.colostate.edu/faq/sidespin/examples/
Concerning ball-weight difference effects, check out the videos and info here:
billiards.colostate.edu/faq/ball/weight/
Thanks
Thank you! That is very generous. I appreciate it. Good luck with your game!
Thanks so much DrDave! Can I please ask, which material would be best to print onto for your ghost ball template? I'd like to print onto a clear sheet that is equally as thin as paper but more rigid. Would synthetic paper or card stock work best?
I don’t know. Mylar might also be an option.
Ill just make sure to whip out my self-adhesive hole reinforcement donut at the bar next time i need to do a cut shot
... obviously, not in a game, but definitely during practice to help drill a wide range of angles to help train your brain what the aim should look like for a wide range of shots. :)
Those last two really fugged me up
I cover these and many other common and useful kicking and banking diamond systems in detail, with lots of demonstrations, here:
billiards.colostate.edu/tutorial/kicks-and-banks/
Enjoy!
I was hoping you would cover Shane Van Boenings ferrule aiming system. It's a very popular system among those who understand it but myself and many other have a hard time visualizing the way the system works.
Honestly, I am not a fan of imprecise "systems" like that, and I honestly doubt that's how Shane actually aims. FYI, I have more info on that system here:
billiards.colostate.edu/faq/aiming/shaft-edge/
@@DrDaveBilliards There are several video clips of him stating that it is his aiming system along with additional video clips of him attempting to explain it. He probably aims by feel and intuition due to his amount of experience he possesses. Nevertheless, he still claims it as his system for aiming.
@prjct7 I have heard the interviews with Shane where he attempts to explain how he aims. However, if he really aimed exactly how he explains it, he would miss many shots that he doesn't miss. I suspect Shane actually aims more like most top players do:
billiards.colostate.edu/faq/aiming/dam/#advice
They don't really use "aiming systems" that people like to talk about.
Great content Dr., I always have a concern when using ghost-ball aiming system and that is it does not compensate for cut-induced throw. Is my concern valid? What aiming system do you personally use? I keep changing my aiming system for different shots depending on the distances and cut angles. Your answer is greatly appreciated.
Ghost-ball aiming is fine if you account for throw when necessary (by adjusting the ghost-ball position). Info on how and when to do this can be found at the bottom of the page here:
billiards.colostate.edu/tutorial/throw/
I use DAM:
billiards.colostate.edu/faq/aiming/dam/#advice
which is the way most top players aim, and it is a good way to learn.
Or you can play with English to compensate for the throw like a lot of pro players do. Check out Earl Strickland's commentary on the billiard network
Dr. Dave, do you think you will ever do a coaching series like lil Chris?
Probably not. The list of video topics I want to cover is already way too long. Good suggestion though.