Learn the game, from the first rack.

New to pool, or never learned it properly? These pages cover what you need before technique: how the game works, the table, your own cue, and how to behave at the table.

Read these in order if you are starting from zero. Once you are comfortable, the games section has the full rules of every major game and the technique section teaches you to play them well.

The shortest possible version

Hit only the white cue ball, and hit a ball you are allowed to play first.
Pocket a legal ball and you keep shooting; miss or foul and your turn ends.
After a foul, your opponent usually gets ball in hand.
Agree on the rules before you start, because casual rules vary.

Sources

How to Play Pool

The equipment, who breaks, how a turn works, fouls, ball in hand, and your first game.

Parts of the Table

Rails, diamonds, the kitchen, the foot spot, pockets, and the official dimensions.

Your First Cue

Length for your height, weight, joints, shafts and what you actually pay for.

Etiquette

Table care, what to do while your opponent shoots, and what to expect at a pool hall.

Common Mistakes

The faults instructors see most, from an elevated cue to aiming at the contact point.