How do you play 10-ball?
Ten-ball (10-ball) is a pool game played with ten balls (1-10) racked in a triangle pattern with the 10-ball in the center. The lowest numbered ball must always be hit first, and all shots must be called (i.e., slop doesn’t count). The person who pockets the 10-ball wins the game. Detailed official rules can be found on the WPA site. The only differences between 9-ball and 10-ball (besides the extra ball and the triangle-shaped rack):
- It is a call-shot game (slop does not count).
- If a non-called ball is pocketed by mistake, the opponent has the option to shoot or return control.
- You win only when the 10 ball is the last ball pocketed. If it is pocketed early, it spots.
Here’s a fun and challenging 10-ball “playing the ghost” rating drill that can be used to evaluate and monitor your playing level and improvement over time.
Advice, strategy and options concerning the break are covered on the 10-ball break resource page and in the Video Encyclopedia of Nine-ball and Ten-ball (VENT).
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