How to Predict Your Opponent’s Next Shot — Before They Move

In pool, anticipation is a game-changer. If you can predict your opponent’s next move before they even pick up the cue, you gain a crucial strategic edge—allowing you to plan safeties, position play, or mental resets accordingly.

Here’s how to sharpen your ability to read your opponent and foresee their shots like a pro.

1. Study the Table Layout Carefully

Before your opponent even steps up, take a moment to analyze:

Which balls they must hit next based on the rules.

The easiest or highest-percentage shots available.

Safe options if the run-out isn’t feasible.

Your goal is to narrow down their logical choices.

2. Watch Their Eye Movements and Focus

Players often glance at their target ball, but also scan potential cue ball paths and position spots. By subtly observing their gaze, you can detect:

Which ball or pocket they favor.

Whether they’re planning a safety or an aggressive shot.

3. Notice Their Pre-Shot Routine

Experienced players develop consistent pre-shot habits that reveal their intentions:

A quick stance and stroke often signals a confident offensive shot.

Longer pauses and deliberate chalking might indicate a complex safety or tough position play.

4. Understand Their Playing Style

Some players are aggressive risk-takers; others prefer cautious safeties. Tailoring your prediction to their personality helps:

Aggressive players likely go for difficult run-outs.

Defensive players might prioritize snookers or safeties.

5. Anticipate Based on Previous Shots

If your opponent has been stringing together runs, they might try to maintain rhythm with similar shots. If they just missed, they may play more conservatively.

6. Use Your Knowledge of Common Patterns

Certain table situations lend themselves to common positional plays or safeties. Familiarity with these patterns sharpens your ability to guess their next move.

Final Tip:

Combine all these observations with your own experience to build a mental “forecast” of their likely shots. Predicting your opponent’s moves doesn’t guarantee victory, but it gives you the power to prepare and respond—turning every turn into an opportunity.

Next time you’re at the table, watch closely—and think one shot ahead of them.