Quick answer: To use sidespin in pool, also called English, hit the cue ball to the left or right of center. Sidespin mainly changes how the cue ball comes off a rail. Running English makes it come off longer and faster, and reverse English makes it come off shorter. Sidespin also pushes the cue ball slightly off your aim line and can throw the object ball, so use small amounts and practice before using it in a match.
Many beginners use too much English. Good players use it only when they need it. Here is how it works.
Where to Hit the Cue Ball
| Hit Point | Spin |
|---|---|
| Right of center | Right English |
| Left of center | Left English |
| Center | No sidespin |
Start with about half a tip off center. Going too far out can cause a miscue.
What Sidespin Does
Off a Rail
This is the main reason to use English.
- Running English spins in the direction the cue ball is heading along the rail. It widens the angle and keeps the ball moving.
- Reverse English spins against that direction. It shortens the angle and slows the ball.
On Your Aim
When you hit off center, the cue ball pushes a little away from the side you hit. This is called deflection or squirt. At longer distances or slower speeds, the cue ball can curve back a bit, called swerve.
On the Object Ball
Sidespin can slightly throw the object ball, changing where it goes. Throw tends to matter more on slow shots.
When to Use Sidespin
- To get the cue ball off a rail at a better angle
- To avoid a scratch
- To hold the cue ball in a spot
- To get around a blocking ball
If a center ball hit gets good position, use center ball. It is more accurate.
How to Practice
Rail Angle Drill
- Place the cue ball in the middle of the table.
- Shoot it into a long rail with center ball and watch the angle.
- Repeat with right English, then left English.
- Notice how the angles change.
Simple Position Drill
Set up a cut shot near a side pocket. Try to send the cue ball to the same spot with center ball, running English, and reverse English. Watch the differences.
Tips for Using English
- Use small amounts. A little goes a long way.
- Stroke smoothly. Jerky strokes make English less reliable.
- Keep your cue level. Raising the butt can add swerve.
- Learn your shaft. Different shafts push the ball differently.
- Chalk every shot. Off center hits need good chalk.
Common Mistakes
| Mistake | Result |
|---|---|
| Too much English | Miscues and misses |
| English on every shot | Less accurate shooting |
| Not adjusting aim | Missing the object ball |
| Jerky stroke | Unpredictable spin |
Learn One Spin at a Time
Do not try to master every kind of spin at once. Spend one practice session on running English off one rail. Spend the next on reverse English. When both feel steady, mix them into simple position drills. Slow, steady learning sticks better.
Ask a Friend to Watch
Have a friend stand behind you while you practice English. They can tell you if your cue stays level and straight, and whether you hit the cue ball where you meant to. Outside feedback helps you fix small habits faster than practicing alone.
The Bottom Line
Sidespin, or English, mainly changes how the cue ball comes off a rail. Hit left or right of center, use small amounts, and remember it changes your aim. Practice the rail angle drill until you can predict where the cue ball will go.
Keep Reading on This Site
- How to Bank a Ball in Pool: 7 Steps for Beginners
- How to Aim in Pool for Beginners: 6 Simple Steps to Make More Balls
- How to Stop Jumping Up in Pool: 6 Ways to Stay Down on Your Shots
- Pool Pre Shot Routine: 6 Steps to Shoot With More Confidence
- Pool Lessons for Beginners: 8 Basics Every New Player Needs
- How to Draw the Cue Ball: 7 Tips for a Better Draw Shot in Pool
Frequently Asked Questions
What is sidespin in pool?
Sidespin, also called English, is spin from hitting the cue ball left or right of center.
What does running English do?
It makes the cue ball come off a rail at a wider angle and keep more speed.
Does English change my aim?
Yes. It pushes the cue ball slightly off line and can throw the object ball, so you need to adjust.
How much English should I use?
Start with about half a tip off center and only use it when center ball will not work.