How to Play Snooker

Snooker is a precision game built on strategy and cue ball control. With 21 balls and a strict potting order, every shot is a small puzzle. Here is how to get started.

1. Know the Balls

There are 15 red balls (worth 1 point each) and six colours: yellow (2), green (3), brown (4), blue (5), pink (6), and black (7). Reds stay down once potted; colours are returned to their spots until the reds are gone.

2. Follow the Potting Sequence

You must alternate: pot a red, then a colour, then a red, then a colour. After the last red, pot the colours in ascending order from yellow to black. Planning this sequence is the heart of the game.

3. The Break-Off

The match opens with a break-off from the "D" behind the baulk line. Aim to spread the reds while leaving the cue ball safe and in play.

4. Build Breaks

Because you return a colour to the table after potting it, a single red can start a long run: red, black, red, black, and so on. Skilled players string these together for big scores.

5. Cue Ball Positioning

Snooker rewards players who control where the cue ball finishes. Use side spin, pace, and angles to leave an easy pot on the next colour and avoid leaving your opponent an opening.

Snooker takes patience, but the satisfaction of a long, clean break is hard to beat. Come practice on our tables at Happy Billiard.