Davis taught that the body must be perfectly aligned to allow the cue to move in a straight line.
Managing pace, top-spin, and screw-shots to make the next pot as effortless as possible.
Many historical sports societies, billiard archives, and online libraries have digitized the text. Enthusiasts often look for scanned PDF versions to study the original diagrams and high-speed photography sequences that Davis used to demonstrate cue delivery. joe davis book how i play snooker pdf
The body should be positioned at a 45-degree angle to the line of the shot, allowing the cue arm room to swing freely without hitting the chest or hips. 2. The Perfect Cue Action
Lock the back leg straight; keep the body at a 45-degree angle. Davis taught that the body must be perfectly
A solid, unwavering bridge hand with fingers spread wide on the cloth. The thumb is pressed tightly against the forefinger to create a steady "V" groove. 4. The Cue Action (The "Feathering" Technique) Davis broke the cue action down into distinct phases:
Modern players have access to high-speed cameras, coaches, and synthetic materials. However, the core principles of cue power, angle recognition, and cue ball control—the pillars of Joe Davis's book—are unchanged. Enthusiasts often look for scanned PDF versions to
Beyond physical mechanics, How I Play Snooker is a masterclass in positional play and tactical psychology. Davis did not just teach readers how to pot a single ball; he taught them how to manage the table.
: You can find an edition for digital borrowing on the Open Library .
Davis breaks down the basics—grip, stance, bridge, and cue action—with precise detail that holds true today.
You can find his teachings repackaged in modern coaching books (like Snooker: Master the Game by Clive Everton, which quotes Davis heavily). You can watch his old exhibition matches on YouTube to see his technique in motion. Or you can embark on the rewarding hunt for a physical copy.