Quick answer: The best pool drills for beginners are simple and repeatable. Start with a stroke drill down the length of the table, then practice straight in shots, stop shots, short cut shots, and a basic speed drill. Do each drill for a few minutes, keep track of how many you make, and try to beat your score next time. Even 20 to 30 minutes of focused drills a few times a week can help more than hours of just hitting balls around.
Drills give your practice a goal. Instead of guessing what to work on, you repeat one skill until it feels natural. If you practice alone, read how to practice pool by yourself too.
Before You Start
Get your basics set first, because drills repeat whatever you do, good or bad.
- Check your grip. See how to hold a pool cue.
- Check your stance. See pool stance for beginners.
- Chalk your tip before each shot.
Drill 1: The Straight Stroke Drill
Put the cue ball on the head spot. Shoot it straight up the table to the far rail so it bounces back to your cue tip.
Goal: The ball comes back straight over the spot. If it drifts left or right, you are adding side spin or your stroke is not straight. Do 10 shots.
Drill 2: Straight In Shots
Place an object ball a foot or so in front of a corner pocket. Put the cue ball in a straight line behind it. Shoot 10 shots.
Goal: Make 8 out of 10, then move the balls farther apart. This builds your aim and trust in your stroke. For aiming help, see how to line up a pool shot.
Drill 3: The Stop Shot Drill
Set up a straight in shot. Hit the cue ball a little below center with firm speed so it stops where it hits the object ball.
Goal: The cue ball should stop dead. Count how many times in 10 tries it stops within a few inches.
Drill 4: Short Cut Shots
Put a ball a foot from the pocket. Place the cue ball at a slight angle. Shoot 5 from the left and 5 from the right.
Goal: Learn how much to cut the ball. Then make the angle a little bigger.
Drill 5: Speed Control Ladder
Shoot the cue ball with no object ball. Try to stop it near the first diamond, then the second, then the third, and so on.
Goal: Learn how hard to hit for each distance. Speed control is one of the biggest keys to winning.
Drill 6: Follow Through Check
Shoot easy straight in shots. After each hit, freeze and hold your cue still until the balls stop.
Goal: Your cue should finish straight and low. Read how to follow through in pool and how to keep your head down in pool.
Drill 7: Three Ball Runout
Toss three balls on the table. Take ball in hand and try to make all three in any order.
Goal: Think one shot ahead. Plan where the cue ball needs to stop for the next ball.
A Simple 30 Minute Plan
| Minutes | Drill |
|---|---|
| 0 to 5 | Straight stroke drill |
| 5 to 10 | Straight in shots |
| 10 to 15 | Stop shot drill |
| 15 to 20 | Short cut shots |
| 20 to 25 | Speed control ladder |
| 25 to 30 | Three ball runout |
Tips to Get More From Your Drills
- Keep score. Write down your numbers and try to beat them.
- Go slow. Take your time and do your full routine on every shot.
- Stop when tired. Sloppy practice builds sloppy habits.
- Mix it up. Change the drill when you get bored so you stay focused.
Missing too many easy ones? See how to stop missing easy shots in pool. Want a fun trick to try after your drills? Read how to shoot behind the back in pool.
The Bottom Line
Pool drills for beginners should be short, simple, and scored. Work on a straight stroke, straight in shots, stop shots, short cuts, speed control, and a three ball runout. Practice a few times a week and track your scores to see real progress.
Keep Reading on This Site
- How to Shoot Behind the Back in Pool: Steps, Rules, and Tips
- How to Play Pool with Glasses: Simple Tips to See Every Shot
- How to Use a Rail Bridge in Pool: 3 Bridges for Shots Near the Cushion
- How to Hold a Pool Cue: A Simple Grip Guide for Beginners
- How to Line Up a Pool Shot: 7 Simple Steps for Beginners
- How to Warm Up Before Playing Pool: A 15 Minute Routine
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best pool drill for beginners?
The straight stroke drill and straight in shots are great places to start because they build a straight stroke and good aim.
How long should I practice pool drills?
Twenty to thirty focused minutes a few times a week is a great start.
Can I do pool drills alone?
Yes. All of the drills on this page can be done by yourself.
How do I know if I am getting better?
Keep score on each drill and try to beat your numbers over time.