Tips & strategy
Position is everything in nine ball. Since you must hit the lowest ball next, each shot is really about where the cue ball stops, not just whether you pot. Before you strike, know which ball you are going for after this one and leave yourself a clean angle on it.
Look for combinations on the nine. Because the nine wins the rack whenever it drops legally, a shot where the lowest ball can kiss the nine into a pocket ends the game instantly. Always check whether the lowest ball and the nine share a line to a pocket.
When you have no makeable shot, play a safety. Leave the cue ball where your opponent cannot easily reach the lowest ball, or hook them behind another ball entirely. A good safety in nine ball wins as many racks as a good pot.
Control your power. Nine ball rewards precise position over big breaks, and a hard shot that pots but scatters the cue ball across the table often leaves you with nothing. Roll the cue ball gently to the exact spot you want for the next lowest ball.