Cue ball control is the art of directing the white ball to a precise location on the table after it contacts the object ball, strategically setting up your next shot. This goes beyond merely pocketing the intended ball; it's about anticipating and manipulating the cue ball's post-impact trajectory and speed. This mastery is achieved by skillfully combining three main elements: cue ball contact point (where you hit the cue ball – center, top, bottom, or sides), stroke speed (how hard you hit the cue ball), and shot angle (the cut angle on the object ball). Hitting the cue ball above center creates "follow," sending it forward after impact; hitting below center creates "draw," bringing it backward; and hitting directly in the center with a firm stroke produces a "stun" shot, causing the cue ball to stop or go along the tangent line. Applying "english" (side spin) by hitting to the left or right of center will alter the cue ball's path, especially after it contacts a rail. The true finesse of cue ball control lies in understanding how these factors interact, allowing you to consistently leave yourself with an open, makable shot for the remainder of your run.