Stun and screw are not different shots. It all depends on table position - distance, strength of shot and where the cue ball has to hit. Both require below centre striking, imparting back spin onto the cue ball.

A screw shot at a distance of no more than a foot (30cm) would be stun shot if played in exactly the same manner but with the cue ball some 3 feet (one metre) away from the object ball.

What happens is that the cue ball loses spin gradually. At 12 inches (30cm) there is still enough back spin to propel the cue ball backwards, but at around 3 feet, most of the spin has disappeared and the cue ball is killed at the point of contact.

Stun plays an important part in break building, enabling accurate cue ball control in and around the reds. It is also extremely useful when playing cannons or otherwise trying to disturb balls into potable positions.

Learn how to control the white using stun and screw. The range of shots available to you will increase as your expertise develops, with the major benefit of accurate positional play aiding beak building.

Avoid the mistake of using below centre striking when it is not required. Continue to use top and above centre cueing for the majority of shots, considering stun and screw only when it is necessary.

Remember that the bridge hand changes shape when striking below centre.

Ensure that the bridge is firm and solid for all shots of this kind.

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