How To: Break a rack in pool

Getting a good break in life is always nice. But when you're playing pool, it's essential.

You Will Need

* A pool table
* Pool balls
* A rack
* A pool cue
* A special pool cue for breaking

Step 1. Position cue ball

Position the cue ball as close as you can to the head string, the imaginary line behind which you have to shoot. You can usually spot the best place to put your ball by looking for the telltale wear marks on the cloth.

Step 2. Hold the cue correctly

Hold the cue correctly, which means as level as possible with the tip poking through a loop made with the thumb and forefinger of your non-dominant hand. The forearm on your dominant hand should be at a 90-degree angle to the floor.

Step 3. Aim at the center of the cue ball

Aim your cue so that it will hit the cue ball at dead center. Hitting the ball even a fraction to the side will result in a bad break.

Step 4. Target the head ball

Target the closest or "head" ball, which is usually the number one ball.

Step 5. Stand up straight with knees bent

Stand up straighter than you normally would when taking a shot, but keep your knees bent.

Step 6. Experiment with backswings

Experiment with different backswings. Some pros like to reach their arm back a few inches farther than usual when they break, while others like to shorten their reach.

Step 7. Push your body forward

Hit the cue ball as hard as you can while still maintaining accuracy. Move your hips and torso forward for more power, and follow straight through with the cue. If you're doing it right, your back foot should end up in a little kick.

Step 8. Test your focus

Test your focus. Break a few times while looking at the cue ball, then break while focusing on the head ball. Use whichever style works better for you.

Step 9. Practice

Practice over and over, noting how the balls are breaking so you can adjust your speed or stance.