Shot Sequence Part 2

[A] With the cue tip close to the center of the cue ball transfer your eyes to the aiming point on the object.

[B] As you move your cue back from the cue ball you eyes should be looking at the spot on the Cue Ball you wish to strike.

[C] Repeat this sequence for every back and forth movement of the cue. When the cue is in the forward position your eyes are on the aiming point. When your cue is at the back position your eyes are on the spot on the Cue Ball you intend to hit,

[D] On the last backward movement of your cue you must incorporate a slight pause at the back and your eyes must be on the cue ball for the last time.

Immediately your cue begins to move forward your eyes must switch to the aiming point on the Object Ball. [This sequence of events is true for the vast majority of shots you will have to play but in my opinion not all shots. If for example you are having a problem with playing very powerful shots and shots were extreme side is used, try looking at the cue ball as you strike it.]

During this sequence do not look at the pocket its not going to move.  The only player I know who looks at the pocket during the cue movement is the greatest Snooker Player I have seen Stephen Hendry, Stephen is the exception to the rule.

The cueing sequence described is the recommended one but not the only one, some players look at the cue ball when the cue is close to the cue and at the aiming point when the cue is at the back of the cue movement . If you find that a variation in this sequence seems to suit you better then that’s the one for you. For example some players have a pause at the front and the back of the final movement of the cue. But I would ask you to give the recommended sequence a chance to work for you.

The most important aspect of the cue action is the delivery, the cue most proceed through the cue ball in an absolute parallel line without any deviation.

Author: Dan Scullion

Dan Scullion is the former Chairman of the Canadian Billiards & Snooker Council. Dan has been coaching snooker for over 40 years and still does so today in the province of Alberta.

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