How to Make a Jump Shot in Pool: Simple Steps for Beginners

Quick answer: To make a jump shot in pool, raise the back of your cue so it angles down at the cue ball, aim at the center or just above center of the cue ball, and use a short, quick, firm stroke straight down through it. The cue ball bounces off the table and hops over the blocking ball. A shorter, lighter jump cue makes jumping much easier. A legal jump comes from hitting down on the cue ball. Scooping under the ball with the tip is a foul in most rules. Always check the house or league rules first, since some places do not allow jump shots or jump cues.

How to make a jump shot in pool: a player with a raised cue jumping the cue ball over a blocking ball — How to make a jump shot in pool: raise the cue and stroke down through the cue ball.

A jump shot can get you out of a tough spot when a ball blocks your path. It takes practice, but the basics are simple.

When to Use a Jump Shot

A ball blocks the straight path to your object ball.
A kick shot off the rail looks too hard. See how to bank a ball in pool and how to shoot off the rail in pool.
You need to get out of a safety. Read how to play safe in pool.

Check the Rules First

Rules vary by league, tournament, and pool room. Some ban jump shots, some ban jump cues, and some bar rooms do not allow jumping at all to protect the cloth. Ask before you try one.

Gear That Helps

A jump cue is shorter and lighter than a playing cue, often with a hard tip. It makes jumping much easier. Many break jump cues come apart so you can use them both ways. Learn more in what is a jump cue on our supplies site.

How to Make a Jump Shot, Step by Step

Pick your line. Aim as if the blocking ball were not there.
Raise your cue. Lift the back of the cue so it points down at the cue ball. Steeper angles help jump higher over close balls.
Use a firm bridge. Many players use a raised closed bridge or a high open bridge.
Aim center or a little above. Do not aim low or try to scoop.
Hold the cue loosely, many players use a dart like grip at steep angles.
Use a short, quick, firm stroke. Snap the tip down through the cue ball.
Follow through a little, but let the cue bounce out of the way.

Common Mistakes

Scooping: hitting under the ball is a foul and can tear the cloth.
Hitting too low: causes miscues.
A long, slow stroke: usually will not get the ball up.
Too little elevation: the ball skids into the blocker.
Gripping too tight: slows the cue down.

Practice Drills

Drill 1: Paper jump. Place a folded paper or a playing card on the table a short way in front of the cue ball and practice jumping it. Use something soft.

Drill 2: Ball jump. Place a blocking ball a few inches from the cue ball, with an object ball beyond it. Jump the blocker and make the shot.

Drill 3: Distance. Move the blocker closer and farther. Notice how you need to change your angle and speed.

Protect the Table

Only practice where it is allowed.
Use a jump cue with a good tip.
Never scoop.

Build Your Basics First

A good jump shot depends on a smooth, straight stroke and accurate aim. Work on how to improve your pool stroke, how to aim in pool for beginners, and how to stop jumping up in pool. New players should start with pool lessons for beginners.

The Bottom Line

To make a jump shot in pool, raise the cue, aim at the center of the cue ball or a little above, and use a short, quick stroke down through the ball. A jump cue makes it easier. Never scoop, and always check the rules where you play.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is a jump shot legal in pool?

In many rules, yes, if you hit down on the cue ball. Scooping under it is a foul. Rules vary, so check first.

Do I need a jump cue to jump?

Not always, but a jump cue makes it much easier than a full length playing cue.

Where should I hit the cue ball for a jump shot?

Aim at the center or slightly above center while striking down at an angle.

Why does my cue ball not jump?

You may need more cue elevation and a shorter, quicker stroke.