How to Run Out in 8 Ball: A Simple Plan

Quick answer: To run out in 8 ball, look at the whole table before you shoot. Pick an order for your balls that ends on the 8. Shoot each ball so the cue ball stops in a good spot for the next one.

A run out means you make all of your balls and then the 8 ball in one turn. Here is a simple way to think about it.

Step 1: Walk around the table

Before your first shot, stop and look. Where are all of your balls? Where is the 8? Are any of your balls stuck together or on a rail?

Step 2: Find your problem balls first

A problem ball is one you can not make easily. It may be touching another ball, or it may be blocked. If you can not find a way to fix it, you may not be able to run out. Then a safe shot can be a better choice. You can read more in When to Play Safe in 8 Ball.

Step 3: Pick a key ball

The key ball is the ball you shoot just before the 8. Pick one that is close to the 8 and easy to make. Then you can leave the cue ball in a good spot for an easy shot on the 8.

Step 4: Plan the order backward

Start with the 8. Then pick the key ball. Then work back to the ball you will shoot first. This helps you see the whole path, not just the next shot.

Step 5: Think about the cue ball on every shot

Making the ball is only half of the shot. The other half is where the cue ball stops. Try to leave it a short, easy distance from the next ball. Small cue ball moves are easier to control than big ones.

Step 6: Take easy balls when you can

Do not try a hard shot when an easy one gets you to the same spot. Easy shots are how most run outs happen.

Pool table with the 8 ball and a few balls spread out for an easy run out — Open balls with no clusters make a run out easier to plan.

FAQ

What does run out mean in 8 ball?

It means you make all of your group and then the 8 ball in one turn at the table.

What is a key ball?

It is the last ball you shoot before the 8. A good key ball gives you an easy shot on the 8.

What if I can not see a way to run out?

Then think about a safe shot instead of a hard shot you will likely miss.

Keep learning

New to the game? Start with my free 7 part billiards course. It comes by email, one lesson at a time.

Want my full plan for winning more games? Get my book, 8 Ball Winning Strategies.

More help from me: see how to set up an easy shot on the 8 with the key ball, and watch my videos on the Pool Skool with Ted YouTube channel.

By Ted Mauro. Ted has played and taught pool for decades and runs pool-billiards-game.com.