Mental Maximization

By Max Eberle

The Stroking Line Pivot for Deflection

One of the most time-consuming things to master in pool is how to adjust your aim when using sidespin. While throw may exist between the cue ball and object ball, deflection has a much bigger impact o­n your aim for most shots.

My definition of deflection is: when using left or right english, the tendency of the cue ball to deviate from the stroking line in the opposite direction of which the side the cue ball was struck. In addition, deflection grows with an increase in stroke speed and with an increase in the amount of sidespin.

With this definition in mind, making a ball while using sidespin is no easy chore. Without this awareness, a player can never advance to the highest levels of play. So, when and how much do you compensate your aim for the sidespin you plan to use?

The answer to the first question, when, is while you are standing before setting up your stance. Since allowing for deflection will create a stroking line other than that of a center ball or vertical axis hit, you must decide o­n this line before getting down so you can create a stance that is balanced and aligned o­n this new stroking line.

The answer to how is a bit more complicated. First of all, since you will be using sidespin, you will want to line your center of vision up through the side of the cue ball you will be striking. Instead of simply stroking o­n a parallel line to that of a perfect center ball hit, you will have to pivot this stroking line away from the center ball hit line in the direction of the side you will be striking the cue ball (remember to do this while standing so you can get balanced o­n this line in your stance).

If there were no such thing as deflection, you could always stroke o­n a line parallel to the center ball hit stroking line. The less deflection a cue has, the less you will have to pivot your stroking line to make the shot.

Determining how much to pivot this stoking line requires experimental, repetitious, and methodical practice for however long it takes to "get it." In other words, good old-fashioned blood, sweat, and tears. I suggest setting up the exact same shot over and over. Hit the shot with the same spin and speed while o­nly adjusting your line of aim. By keeping the other variables the same you will quickly learn how much to pivot o­n that particular shot. See what happens when you keep your spin and aim the same but change your speed. Then keep your speed and aim the same while adjusting your spin.

Closely observe your results with every shot so you can learn what is happening. You can experiment like this with any shot you want to master. Remember to stay down and follow through every shot-you will improve much faster like this.  Practice like a scientist, detached from the results yet very observant so you can make the proper adjustments. With concentrated effort you will see great improvement.