How to Make Thin Cut Shots in Pool
A thin cut is any shot where the cue ball only grazes the object ball and sends it off at a sharp angle. They're scary because there's so little ball to hit, but with the right aim and stroke they become routine.
Aim with the ghost ball
Picture a "ghost" cue ball touching the object ball at the exact spot that sends it into the pocket: the point on the object ball farthest from the pocket. Now shoot your cue ball to where the ghost ball sits. On a thin cut, the ghost ball is almost beside the object ball, so you're aiming at empty cloth, not at the ball. That feels wrong at first, and it's the most common reason players hit thin cuts too full.
More aiming methods in how to aim in pool, and you can test yourself on the aim trainer.
Throw: why slow cuts go thick
When the balls touch, friction drags the object ball a little in the direction the cue ball is moving. On slow, thin cuts, this throw makes the ball go in a bit thicker than the geometry says, so cut it a touch thinner than you think. On firm shots there's less throw.
Outside English helps
A little outside spin (the side of the cue ball away from the object ball) cancels out much of the throw. Many pros use a touch of outside English on thin cuts for that reason. Keep it small; too much spin makes the cue ball curve and squirt off line. See English in pool.
Speed and stroke
- Use a smooth medium stroke. Slamming a thin cut adds error.
- Stay down and keep your head still until the ball drops.
- Follow through straight toward the ghost ball, not toward the object ball.
Where the cue ball goes
On a thin cut the cue ball keeps most of its speed and heads along the tangent line, often across or around the table. Plan for it so you don't scratch (see how to stop scratching).
Drill: the cut ladder
Put an object ball one diamond off the end rail, an inch off the long rail, so it goes into the corner pocket along the rail. Shoot it from the middle of the table at a 30-degree angle, then 45, then 60, then 75. Make each angle three times in a row before moving on. A good chalk helps: thin cuts with a slick tip often miscue.