Which book is best for learning to play pool?complete book of pool shots or play your best pool.?

Question

Which book is best for learning to play pool?complete book of pool shots or play your best pool.?

Answer 1

I agree that learning from a book is not the best way to go about learning pool.  Hands-on instruction from a certified teacher is far superior.  Still, I've come across some very good books on the subject.  I don't endorse everything in these books, but there's a lot of good information.  George Fels wrote a great book entitled, "A Smarter Way to Learn Pool".  It's one of my favorites.  Also, check out the writings of Phil Cappelle.  Robert Byrne is a BCA HOF author of many great books as well.  Happy shooting.  M.D.-BCA Instructor/Referee.

Answer 2

Actually the best book is a geometry book. The best players also accidentally develop into good students of geometry.

In pool you are dealing with angles and tangents at all points.

Beyond that it is consistency of mechanics, concentration and mental toughness. Its also a good idea to sit and simply watch games. Practice practice practice. Mechanically pool is more akin to golf.

Its a good idea to learn how to go into a pool room watch the bends and tendencies of the rails. I almost never play the first game. I only take the cue ball run it along the rails.

Then I run three shots right down the center about double length weight and right and left English. Then two with back spin an top spin.

Check the rebound on the rails. And you know the guy who sends a ball towards the pockets. He missed that on purpose. The guy is looking at how the ball handles the pockets does it rap around or does it fight then in.

The hardest shot doesn't always make it. Its not just how you shot but also where you leave it. I've won games by missing a shot deliberately. Leaving the opponent with no or only one shot. If the person takes the shot and misses then I can run table. Otherwise I can't. Its a chess match. You won't find that in a book.

Answer 3

In my opinion, pool cant be taught by a book, just the rules of it. Pool is based mainly on angles, and how to forsee these angles. Many people cant play pool well becuz they cant imagine the ball travelling and banking corners without it actually moving. I think just hit a pool hall and play/practice for fun. Sorry I couldnt be more help! Good luck! :)