A Few Cue Tips

• In applying side move the feet proportionately, otherwise there is likely to be something wrong with the aim, the sighting for which should always be through the centre of the cue ball.
• When using the long or half-ball, remember their enormously enhanced driving power, and play more gently, finer, or fuller- according to the position required than YOU would do with the cue.
• When in hand with the object balls a few inches apart near the spot and equi-distant from the top cushion, screw hard and nearly full on the while so as to stun the cue ball against the red, drive it to a corner pocket, and bring the white back to the top.
• A stroke that is usually avoided is the thick run through along the side into the top pocket from hand when the object ball is not quite touching the cushion. The aim for this, with plenty of check side, is mid-way between the edge and centre, instead of dead straight.
• Probably the best rule in billiards, apart from making even in-off and cannon an imaginary pot, and even pot an imaginary in-off or cannon, is to aim in run-throughs more thickly than they seem to require, and in fine strokes more finely. The ball throw-off is nearly always greater than expected, especially where top is not used.
• As with the human body the brains of the billiard table are at the top end.
• When there is doubt about the possibility of a very fine stroke a very thick run-through will usually effect the score.
• If your opponent is getting all the leaves be sure that your own play lacks courage and decision. The balls are as sensitive as a horse to feeble control.
• When an object ball banked against a cushion is played upon half-ball, the cue ball should be struck below the centre if any life is to be ensured on the rebound.
• Don't give your opponent the game by going out for shots that a professional would not dream of attempting. A judicious safety miss often finds the balls in easy position for a break after the next hand.
• If you begin to feel tired during a game it is a sure sign that matters are not going well with you. Try stirring the balls up, safety play, or anything under such circumstances rather than allow yourself to become dispirited. To lose confidence is to lose the game.
• Avoid the nervous habit of only just tapping and poking the cue ball. Its departure should always be the central incident of a cue swing, and it is bound to pursue the course towards which the cue points. On the other hand, when the cue does not pass as far beyond the cue ball position as it has been drawn back from it, an unconscious deflection is usually imparted to the cue at the moment of striking.