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Cueing Academy

Pool glossary · Cue Ball & Spin

Follow shot

Also called: Follow, Topspin

What is a follow shot in pool?

A follow shot puts topspin on the cue ball by hitting above center, so the cue ball keeps rolling forward after contact. On a straight-in shot it follows the object ball toward the pocket.

In more detail

On a cut shot, follow bends the cue ball forward from the tangent line. At natural roll, the cue ball leaves a half-ball hit at about 30° — the basis of the 30° rule.

People also ask

How high should I hit for follow?

About one tip above center for strong follow. Higher risks a miscue; a little above center gives natural roll at most speeds.

Train it at the table

More guides on follow shot