The pre-shot routine is a systematic series of mental and physical actions a player consistently follows before every shot, serving as a vital ritual for consistency and focus. It typically begins before approaching the table, with a thorough analysis of the shot: visualizing the cue ball's path, the object ball's trajectory, intended spin, and desired cue ball position for the next shot. Once the shot is fully decided, the player approaches the table, aligns their body, takes practice strokes to confirm the feel and aim, and then pauses briefly, locking their eyes onto the precise contact point on the cue ball or object ball. This structured approach builds muscle memory, filters out distractions, and promotes a calm, confident execution, ensuring that each stroke is delivered with the same level of preparation and precision, regardless of the pressure or complexity of the shot.