In pool, most players rely on three basic tools for cue ball control: the stop shot, the draw shot, and the follow shot.
But there’s a third option - subtle, powerful, and often overlooked. It can completely change your game: the controlled follow shot. This shot sits between a pure stop and a rolling follow.
Instead of stopping dead or following several feet, the cue ball creeps forward just a few inches after contact. If you compare a stop shot vs follow shot in these situations, both have limits:
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A stop shot might leaves you short or stuck on the wrong line.
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A rolling follow might sends the cue ball too far.
The controlled follow solves these problems. It gives you the ability to make the cue ball ball goes forward only as much as you intend. This is achieved by striking the cue ball slightly above center with a firm stroke. The ball retains a touch of forward rotation, but not enough to roll freely across the table.
In short: if you’re learning how to control the cue ball, this is one of the first advanced lessons to master. Even if you’re just starting out and looking for a beginner pool lesson on how to play pool, learning this shot early gives you a huge advantage over players who only know stop and follow.
Building the Feel
Like many advanced shots, this one is less about calculation and more about feel. The more you practice it, the better you’ll sense how much above center and how much speed to use. Over time, it becomes instinctive, a natural part of your decision-making at the table.
The controlled follow shot is a small adjustment with massive impact. Mastering this “in-between” shot is what separates good players from great ones.
Cheers,
Sharivari