How do you use the dots on the sides of pool tables?

Answer by  thelostone (1457)

The dots on the pool table are there to help you triangulate angles for banking shots off the rails. To really be able to use them you have to have a basic understanding of geometry and physics. Its all about understanding how to use the rails to get a ball to rebound in the desired trajectory.

Answer by  jpars795 (46)

When racking the balls, the front ball must line up with the second set of dots, or diamonds, before play. These dots also serve as a boundary for the Cue Ball, which is shot on the opposite side at the head of the table when breaking.

Answer by  Russty (166)

The dots are there to help so you can predict where your ball will go. You can use them as a reference point for the angle needed to play a shot.

Answer by  ladybud (1069)

Use's them to line up bank shot's and for eye and hand placement.These dot's are supposed to give a ideal of where to bank a shot from.

Answer by  tamkees (3203)

Pool is based on physics and geometry. The little dots are place markers to help you use the mathematical principles to your advantage. Aim the ball at one of the dots and watch where your ball goes. With practice, you'll be able to predict where your ball will go.

Answer by  djalexis (176)

First off, they are used when one scratches, (sinking the white ball). They also help by being great reference points for angles needed for a shot.

Answer by  pascaldg (16)

Such marking are always called diamonds regardless of shape. They are number 1-5. Include the pockets as diamonds the side pocket being 3 and the corner being 5. If you are shooting from the corner pocket and wanted to hit the third diamond you would aim at the number 2 diamond on the opposite rail.

Answer by  Mollichella (445)

The dots on teh sides of pool tables can be used in two differnt ways that I know of. The first would be as guides for angles on the shot. This is to help prevent scratching and to try and improve your game. The second is for point value when professionally judging shots.

Answer by  alleydny (23)

I use only one dot on the pool table and the one dot is used for the top ball of the rack (usually the one ball). Another way is to use the dots on either end of the pool table when someone scratches and you have to stay behind the dots when putting the ball back into play.

Answer by  hecarlso (196)

You use them as referance points to line up your shots or when shooting angles it is the point you want the ball to bounce off.

Answer by  Mbn (32)

Most people do not use the dots on the sides of pool tables because they think that the dots are useless.