What Are the Spots on a Pool Table For?

Pool tables have a number of standard features to ensure that play is the the same from one table to the next. Among these features, is the placement of spots or diamonds on the rails of the table. These spots serve several purposes during play and can be used to line up shots or perform tricks.

Setting up a Game

Spots on the table rails are used to measure where to setup the balls for the game.

The most common use of spots on a pool table is for players to use as a reference when racking up the target balls for eight- or nine-ball play. The spots indicate several invisible lines on the table's surface. The line running between the second spots from the end of the table on the side rail is known as either the foot string or the head string, depending on which side play begins. After arranging balls in the rack, the top of the rack must be placed in the middle of the foot string. A player must then take the first shot with the cue ball from behind the head string on the other side of the table. Other pool games use the spots in different ways.

Tips and Tricks

Many players use the spots on the rails as a reference to help them line up their shots or during practice drills. Some advanced players use a complicated diamond system when calculating how to play a ball off the rail. Spots are also used when players want to show off with a trick shot. For tricks, a shooter will often place balls on- or in-line with certain spots. This allows the trick shot to be made the same way each time.