(This is today’s bit of advice from the book Safety Toolbox.)
A pocket is blocked when another object ball prevents the target ball from being made in that pocket. Blocked pockets complicate a game. A blocked pocket can add one or more innings to the game.
In 8 Ball, a blocked pocket is a problem. Many players will dance around the problem, shooting in other balls while avoiding having to address the problem. Eventually, it has to be faced, usually in the end-game and with very few options.
In 9 Ball, a blocked pocket is a show-stopper, preventing an easy run-out. If it happens to you, apply a proper defensive play. Use blocked pockets to create many kinds of thought-provoking predicaments for your opponent.
In the early-game, never allow blocked pockets to exist. They restrict your options. Eliminate them directly, or turn them around against your opponent. Do not allow your playing plan to be limited by a blocked pocket. That would be allowing your opponent to dictate terms to you.
Slide inside example
This blocks the blocker.
S&D Blocked Pocket – Slide Inside
Butt out example
This example kicks the opponent’s ball away and leaves yours in place. Sometimes, you can carom off his ball and make yours in the pocket.
S&D Blocked Pocket – Butt Out
Clear the way example
Sometimes it makes sense to pocket an opponent’s ball and leave yours in its place. Use this opportunity to also carefully position the cue ball.
S&D – Blocked Pocket – Clear the Way
Buy the book – Help your opponent lose!!
 | Get the Book!!  PDF book (good for smart devices)(Includes my Money-back Guarantee)  Printed book |
(FAQ) Game Rules - Cribbage
(About the Author) These series of "Game Rules' provide rules of many different games for the pool table. The rules here ...
(BSC) Billiard Skills Challenge (video) - Cue Ball Shape, Set 1 (Advanced) Test Group
(About the Author) Here is Today's Test Group Challenge from the book. This progressive set develops personal confidence when similar shots ...
(AWAP) Art of War v. Art of Pool - Chapter 10 - condition to attack
(About the author) At it's most basic, the pool table is a small battlefield. An excerpt from "The Art of War" ...(AWAP) Art of War v. Art of Pool - Chapter 13 - spies usefully employed
(About the author) At it's most basic, the pool table is a small battlefield. An excerpt from "The Art of War" ...
(CBC) Cue Ball Control (half table patterns) - Group 6, Set 10
This is today's set of Cue Ball Cheats. These practice setups (and others in the book and blog) help you ...