Thick and Thin Aiming Sytem

Thick and Thin Aiming System
Sometimes I like to refer to this system as the “Zeroing in System”. To use this system correctly first look for lines from the object ball that miss the pocket to the right and lines that miss the pocket to the left. Then look for the line that will make the object ball barely go in the right side of the pocket then the line that will make the object ball go in the left side of the pocket. Then find the line that will favor going in the right center of the pocket then the line that will favor going in the left center of the pocket. What’s left is the line that will make the object ball in the center of the pocket. Of course you could find this line easily just by standing behind the object ball and visualizing the object ball going straight into the center of the pocket. However that only shows you the line, it doesn’t help you develop confidence. The key is that you found this line by exploring the lines on either side first and discovering the center line through a zeroing in process. If you feel that the pocket is really small your confidence in making the shot is low but if you can use your mind in a way to make the pocket appear to be wide, then your confidence in making the shot increases. This “Zeroing in System” helps make you believe that the pocket is wide. So use this aiming system to find the right line before getting down to the shot, and again as you are down on the shot. It’s all about perception, and perception is more powerful than reality. When you are finished feathering and the cue tip is paused at the cue ball use this system and ask yourself this question: “If I pull the trigger right now will the object ball miss the pocket to the right or to the left (too thick or too thin)?” If it doesn’t feel like the angle you are aiming at is too thick or too thin then the chances are very good that you are aimed at the center of the pocket. However, if it feels a little too thick or too thin then make the necessary adjustment before pulling the cue stick back to the shooting position. After you bring the cue stick back to the shooting position, pause and once again ask yourself, “If I pull the trigger right now will the object ball miss the pocket to the right or to the left?” This is your final chance to make an adjustment, or even abort the shot.
This is not the only aiming system that works but it is definitely the best one to fall back on if you are missing shots and your confidence is dropping.
I will talk about the other aiming systems in future articles. In the meantime “Enjoy the Process”!
Paul Potier