10 Cue Ball Control Drills Pros Practice Daily

Mastering cue ball control is the cornerstone of any great pool player’s game. It’s not just about potting balls—it’s about positioning the cue ball perfectly for your next shot, every time. Professional players spend countless hours refining this skill with targeted drills designed to build precision, speed control, and spin mastery.

Here are 10 cue ball control drills that pros practice daily—and that you can start using to elevate your game:

1. Stop Shot Drill

Place an object ball straight ahead and practice striking the cue ball so it stops dead after contact. This builds feel for hitting the cue ball exactly at its center.

2. Follow Drill

Practice hitting the cue ball with topspin to follow forward after hitting the object ball. Aim to land the cue ball consistently at a target spot.

3. Draw Drill

Strike the cue ball below center to make it draw back after contact. Control the distance it travels backward to improve your backspin skills.

4. Stun Shot Drill

Hit the cue ball so it moves forward with no spin after contact, rolling smoothly. This teaches control of speed and natural cue ball paths.

5. Side Spin Drill

Practice applying left and right english to control cue ball angle off rails. Focus on smooth strokes and predictable cue ball deflection.

6. Rail Positioning Drill

Use the rails to guide the cue ball to specific spots on the table. This drill helps you learn how the ball reacts off cushions.

7. Stop-and-Go Drill

Combine stop shots with follow or draw to change cue ball direction and speed. This drill enhances your ability to plan multiple shots ahead.

8. Shape Drill

Set up sequences of shots requiring the cue ball to navigate around balls, landing perfectly for the next shot. This builds advanced positional play.

9. Speed Control Drill

Practice hitting the cue ball with varying speeds while maintaining accuracy in positioning. Great for learning how speed affects cue ball travel.

10. Pressure Cue Ball Drill

Simulate game pressure by practicing these drills under time limits or score constraints. It builds focus and consistency under stress.

Final Tip

Integrate these drills into your daily practice and track your progress. Cue ball control isn’t built overnight—but with patience and repetition, you’ll soon move like a pro, dictating the table and running racks with confidence.