Explaining the basics billiards?

Question

What is a simple way to explain the basics to a beginner that has not played pool before?

I would start off by saying that its a game of "angles" and the cue works in conjunction with all other balls by utilizing those angles, but I always tend to make things more complicated than they have to be. Any tips?

Answer 1

yes it is a game of angles.it is also agame of thought.you always have to think two shots ahead of the shot you are about to take.where do i want the cue ball to end up at?so i can make the next shot so on so on.what kind of spin do i need to put on the cue ball to accomplish that?

Answer 2

dont play anybody with the name of a city or state

and ck about 200 web pages on the subject

verbal inst forget it  hands on is the only good way to learn when you learn practice the rest of your life

Answer 3

We need to make a distinction between someone who has never played pool before and someone who has never even seen pool before.  Let's assume we're talking about the former.  When learning about pool, you can't put the cart before the horse.  You need to learn a proper stroke before you ever even think about pocketing balls.  The pool author George Fels puts it this way "A proper stroke is so simple that almost nobody can do it".  A proper stroke is about limiting excess movement and using as few muscle groups as possible.  When we eliminate all of these excess variables, we begin to develop consistency.  When we have our stroke mechanics in order, we begin to have confidence in our game.  Pool is actually a very simple game.  On every shot you are moving the cue stick forward in a straight line with an accelerating motion.  This is not to say that it is easy by any stretch.  Look into getting some lessons to learn exactly what makes up a proper stroke.  Once your mechanics are in order, you can then concern yourself with aiming, cue tip position, speed control, etc.  Build yourself a firm foundation first.  M.D.-BCA Instructor/Referee.