Set up the balls in a triangle rack with the 8-ball in the center and the front ball on the foot spot
Decide who breaks
Break the rack by striking the cue ball into the racked balls
After the break, determine whether the table is open or whether solids or stripes are assigned, depending on the game rules
Choose your group if the table is open and you legally pocket a called ball on the break or first legal shot
Call your shot if playing called-pocket rules
Use the cue stick to strike only the cue ball
Pocket your assigned balls before your opponent pockets theirs
Keep shooting after each legal pocket
End your turn if you miss, foul, or fail to make a legal shot
Avoid fouls such as scratching the cue ball, hitting the wrong ball first, or failing to hit a rail after contact when required
When all your group balls are pocketed, legally pocket the 8-ball in the called pocket
Win by pocketing the 8-ball legally after clearing your group
Lose if you pocket the 8-ball early, scratch on the 8-ball, or commit a foul on the 8-ball
Use a bridge, stance, and smooth stroke for better control
Aim carefully and control cue ball position for your next shot