Detailed Guide to Billiards Technique: Dividing Lines and Accurate Ball Orientation

Billiards is a sport that demands precision, patience, and calculation skills, attracting millions of players worldwide. To achieve consistent, accurate shots, mastering both basic and advanced techniques is essential. One of the most fundamental yet effective methods in three-cushion billiards, especially popular among players in Hanoi, Vietnam, is the “dividing lines” technique. This method helps players align the object ball (OB) and cue ball (CB) accurately by visualizing guiding lines.

1. Understanding the Basic Dividing Lines

The dividing line technique is based on visualizing imaginary straight lines that guide the player in identifying both the contact point between the cue ball and object ball, and the intended direction of travel after impact. There are three primary dividing lines:

• Dividing Line 1: A straight line from the center of the object ball (OB) to the pocket target. This represents the desired path of the OB. Accurately identifying this line is the foundation of every shot.
  (Source: The Science of Pool and Billiards – Jack H. Koehler, Billiards Congress of America)

• Dividing Line 2: A line parallel to Dividing Line 1, passing through the center of the cue ball (CB). This helps players visualize the cue ball’s position for striking the OB correctly. It determines the required contact point between CB and OB.
  (Source: Advanced Techniques in Pool and Billiards – Robert Byrne, Professional Billiards Tour)

• Dividing Line 3: A line connecting the cue ball’s center to the intended destination of the CB after striking the OB. This line is crucial in planning position play or executing three-cushion shots.
  (Source: Pool & Billiard Magazine – Technical and strategy articles)

2. Determining the Object Ball Contact Point

For the object ball to follow Dividing Line 1 into the pocket, the CB must strike the OB at a precise spot.

• The contact point is not at the OB’s center but rather at a calculated position along Dividing Line 1.

• According to geometry, the correct contact lies at the intersection of a perpendicular line drawn from the OB’s center across Dividing Line 1.

• This ensures that the majority of energy is transferred directly toward the pocket.

(Source: Physics of Billiards – Dave Alciatore, Colorado School of Mines)

3. Determining Cue Ball Position

Once the OB’s contact point is identified, the CB must be positioned correctly to make the shot possible.

• Using Dividing Line 2: Visualize a parallel line through the CB aligned with Dividing Line 1. This helps establish where the CB should hit the OB.

• Arming Line: Also known as the stroke line, this is the straight line from the CB to the chosen contact point on the OB. This line serves as the aiming guide for the player’s stroke.

By aligning the Arming Line accurately, players can maintain control and consistency in their execution.

4. Applying Dividing Lines in Real Play

The dividing line technique is not limited to pocketing balls; it extends to controlling cue ball position and planning future shots.

• Control of stroke power: Adjusting stroke strength directly affects both the OB’s path and the CB’s post-contact trajectory. With proper control, players can position the CB for follow-up shots, including three-cushion strategies.
  (Source: Billiard Encyclopedia – Billiards Congress of America)

• Using cushions effectively: In three-cushion billiards, cushion interaction is essential. Dividing Line 3 allows players to anticipate rebound angles and adjust force and spin on the CB accordingly.
  (Source: Winning Billiards – George Fels, Billiards Digest)

5. Practical Advice for Billiards Players in Hanoi

For enthusiasts in Hanoi, where billiards culture thrives, mastering dividing line techniques significantly improves performance.

• Practice regularly: Consistency is built through repetition. Dedicate time to practicing basic shots using dividing lines.

• Observe and analyze: Watch skilled players execute shots, focusing on how they apply dividing lines in real play.

• Learn from trusted sources: Use books, instructional videos, and professional coaching from credible organizations.

• Join billiards clubs: Local clubs in Hanoi provide opportunities to train, exchange knowledge, and compete in tournaments that reinforce skills.

Conclusion

The dividing line technique is a powerful tool for any billiards player. By understanding and applying Dividing Lines 1, 2, 3, and the Arming Line, players can improve shot accuracy, control cue ball positioning, and enhance overall strategy. With patience, practice, and continuous learning, players can sharpen their skills and achieve higher levels of play.

References

• Koehler, Jack H. (1989). The Science of Pool and Billiards. Sterling Publishing Co., Inc.

• Byrne, Robert. (1990). Advanced Techniques in Pool and Billiards. Simon & Schuster.

• Alciatore, Dave. (2004). Physics of Billiards. Colorado School of Mines.

• Billiards Congress of America (BCA). Official publications and resources.

• Pool & Billiard Magazine – Strategy and technique articles.

• Fels, George. (1989). Winning Billiards. Contemporary Books.

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