Playing pool at a bar is a great way to socialize with friends or impress a date. Whether you are playing with your crew or strangers, remaining courteous is a priority. To ensure everyone has a good time, here are etiquette tips to follow and other faux pas to avoid. 

Do:

Make sure everyone is on the same page.

To avoid confusion, make sure each player knows the basic rules of the game. Many bars, for instance, follow the guidelines of 8- and 9-ball pool. Refresh yourself on the rules before heading to the bar. This way, you won't have to stop the game for someone to explain what's going on. The venue might have house rules posted in the pool area, too. If not, ask a staffer whether there are rules players must follow. 

Keep chit-chat to a minimum.

Although you don't have to remain silent while playing pool, be respectful of your opponent and try not to talk during their turn. If you are playing with friends or a date, don't be loud and boisterous while at the pool table. The commotion could distract other people who are playing at nearby pool tables.    

Don't:

Stand in your opponent's line of vision. 

When you aren't shooting, be mindful of where you stand. Avoid standing in the line of your opponent's shot, as it will be difficult for them to focus on the target. Instead, stand in your opponent's peripheral vision. You'll still be able to see the shot but won't distract your opponent. 

Hold on to the chalk. 

There will be a cube of chalk on the top rail of the pool table or somewhere in the lounge. Rubbing chalk on the tip of the pool stick creates friction when it hits the cue ball. Don't rechalk the stick after each turn or hold on to the chalk. Other players need to rechalk their sticks, too.

If you want to play a round of pool, visit Lancaster's Lounge & Off-Sale in Lincoln, NE. Family-owned since 1989, the bar has an extensive wine, liquor, and beer selection and happy hour deals, so you can show off your skills over a lively libation. Visit the Cheers of Lincoln on Facebook for drink special alerts, and call (402) 421-2474 to learn more about playing pool at the cocktail lounge.