Pool glossary · Strategy & Safety
Pattern play
Also called: Running pattern, Table plan
What is pattern play in 8-ball?
Pattern play is choosing the order of balls and the cue-ball route that makes a run-out simplest. In 8-ball you pick both the order and the pockets; in 9-ball the order is fixed, so pattern play is about routes.
Step by step
- 1Identify problem balls (clusters, balls on rails, blocked balls).
- 2Choose the end pattern: the 8 (or last ball), the key ball and the ball before it.
- 3Work backwards from the end to choose the order.
- 4Plan early break-outs of clusters with a safe fallback.
In more detail
Strong patterns solve problems early, use short cue-ball movements, and save balls near pockets as key and insurance balls. Weak patterns go for the easiest ball now and get stuck later.
People also ask
How do I get better at pattern play?
Play the ghost with ball in hand, plan the full pattern before the first shot and write down where it broke down.
Train it at the table
- Intermediate · 20 minPattern the RackPlan a full run before the first shot.
- Beginner · 15 minThe L PatternRun balls placed in an L shape.
- Beginner · 15 minLast Three BallsFinish a rack from the last three balls.
- Intermediate · 20 minThree-Ball Pattern RunPlan and execute a three-ball sequence, choosing the side of each ball you need for the next shot.
More guides on pattern play
Strategy & Pattern Play
How to Run Out an 8 Ball Rack: A Practical PlanStrategy & Pattern Play
Key Ball Principle Pool: Build a Reliable Finish