In science, the "divide and conquer" algorithm refers to breaking down a problem into more manageable smaller problems until they become simple enough to solve directly. This same concept can be applied to understanding our pool game and conquering those errors during competition.

With nationals just around the corner, who couldn't use a little help in conquering those errors?

How many times have you been in a match where it seemed like nothing was going right for you? No matter what you did, it wasn't working. It can often feel overwhelming when that happens. You make one little mistake and the next thing you know all the errors start snowballing. When you look back on that match, you might be able to pinpoint one or two specific things that resulted in your downward spiral.

If only you could identify it when it starts happening... You couldn't because all the combined errors clouded the real reason you weren't getting out. You were looking at the big problem instead of dividing it into smaller ones that you could attack.

Here's a perfect example:

You lost your match because you missed too many key shots. You missed those shots because you were too tentative and did not deliver a confident stroke. Without confidence you weren't following through. You didn't follow through because in the very first rack of the match you over-stroked a draw shot and hooked yourself. Now, instead of adjusting to the table, you've managed to make a mountain of a loss out of the molehill of the table speed. If only you were able to recognize what was happening while it was happening.

My personal biggest weakness is when the balls are really dirty. As soon as I'd over-spin that first shot, it would ultimately make me so uncomfortable, it would cause me to jump up or misaim. When you're not comfortable, it's difficult to stay down. You just want the shot to be over with.

My point is that if you're able to break down the equation and quickly identify the problem, it makes it much easier to conquer it. Sometimes confidence can win as many matches as skill. If you can't figure out what's causing you to feel uncomfortable, you'll never be able to feel confident. When a match takes a turn for the worse, break it down and conquer it! Figure out what's happening and regain your confidence.

Best of luck to everyone that's heading to Las Vegas in May for all the upcoming national events!!

Samm Diep, "Cherry Bomb" (DenverCherryBomb.com)
House Pro at Rack 'Em Billiards (Aurora, CO)
Author of "You Might Be A D Player If... (101 Classic Moves That All Pool Players Can Appreciate)?
Player Representative for Chris Byrne Custom Cues, PoolDawg, Predator, Jim Murnak Custom Cases, & Delta-13 Rack

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