As
you approach the table, the first thing that you have to
decide is what shot you will play. (See "The
Drill" for more detailed information)
When I mention this to people who come to me for coaching,
the response in most cases is that "I have no trouble on
that score." Believe me, they could not be more wrong. The
number of times I witness a player taking on the 'wrong
shot', often with disastrous consequences. 
A
bad choice of shot when the balls are in a favourable position
means they will they will probably still be so, when you
have left the table. This means that a decent chance to
score may have been presented to your opponent.
Adding to the problems over decision making the player is
often faced with numerous choices and different options.
Do I try and pot, or do I play safe? Do I try that red and
play for the black or the other red and play for the green?
Often decisions are directly related to the state of the
scoreboard at the time.
The
importance of correct decision making, is highlighted in
frames which are 'tight' and things are not as straightforward
as you would like them to be. This is where a good tactical
player will triumph over someone who is regarded as just
a good potter.
This
is the time to stand back and weigh up all the 'pros and
cons' for each particular option before finally deciding
what shot to play. Having made up your mind, you must forget
about everything else except the shot in hand, which is
no easy matter.
Usually
the decision to be made is whether to go for a pot or a
safety shot. Sometimes it is possible to play a shot with
safety in mind, ' the shot to nothing'. In this case however,
there is still a priority. Are you going flat out for the
pot or do you want to concentrate on getting the cue ball
back to the safety of the baulk area?
Although
large and small breaks will always be made, the player with
the best snooker brain will normally come out on top.
Weigh
up the "pros and cons" before choosing your shot.
