A combination shot is a strategic maneuver in billiards where the cue ball first strikes an object ball (the "first object ball"), which in turn strikes and pockets a different object ball (the "second object ball"). These shots are invaluable when the target ball is blocked or positioned unfavorably for a direct hit, allowing you to use another ball as an intermediary. The key to aiming a combination is to work backward: first, identify the precise contact point on the second object ball that will send it into the pocket, as if your first object ball were the cue ball. Then, envision your actual cue ball hitting the first object ball at the angle necessary to send it into that predetermined contact point on the second object ball. Factors like the distance between the balls, their angles, and the speed of your shot all influence the outcome, making combination shots a test of precise execution and understanding how momentum transfers between balls. They are often high-reward, high-risk shots, and evaluating if a simpler alternative exists is always a wise consideration.