When you first start to play snooker it can seem dauntingly difficult and somewhat intimidating.

However, with practice players soon realise that it’s possible to have fun and win games without having to be incredibly precise.

Of course the more the game is played the better the player will get, but most people find that a relaxed approach, taking time over the game and a good understanding of the basics will lead to an enjoyable and rewarding game.

If you’re struggling to develop the necessary skills for a great game of snooker, follow these simple tips and watch your game improve before you and your opponents’ eyes.

1. Be confident. The more confidence you have in your own ability, the better you will play. If you genuinely believe that you can achieve a shot you are much more likely to achieve it.

2. Be relaxed. In snooker it’s important to remain as calm as possible, relax into the game and let the playing take over. Being tense will hamper you when trying to make a difficult shot.

3. Find a hard partner. Playing with someone who is more skilled than you will be more challenging and help you raise your game.

4. Keep your eye on the ball. Many players lose sight of the cue ball when playing. Once you decide on the angle of your aim you should keep your eye fixed on the cue ball.

5. If you’re just starting out try striking the ball above the centre. This normally achieves more accurate results and helps players to get used to striking the ball.

Other tips include chalking the cue tip after every shot, remembering errors you have made and trying to avoid repeating them and thinking about your next shot in advance.

There are plenty of opportunities to get great at pool with several pool halls popping up all over the place. They’re not only somewhere where you can learn your craft, but they’re also a great place to meet with friends, have fun and socialise.

You could find that you learn new skills and really excel at something and make some great friends along the way.

Remember, if you really want to improve the best thing you can do is to slow down. The more steadily you take your shots the more likely you are to achieve your goals.

If you follow these simple tips you and your friends will be amazed by the improvement in your game.