Billiard University Exams
Has anyone given these a shot? On Wednesday I did the first four exercises of Exam I (link: Exam I Diagrams and Procedures) and so far have a score of 24 out of 40 (I wasn't exactly playing on a great table and drawing is terrible on the one I was playing on). I'm going to try to do these tests from time to time to see how I'm progressing but I wanted to know if anyone else may have been helped by these or if they're even worth it.

Now, unfortunately, the strongest part of my game is strategy, not just for my own leaves but my opponents as well. These tests don't address that aspect of the game (not sure how you could besides just playing against others and forcing them into tough situations) but as for accuracy and control they seem to do well.

I haven't done the exams yet, but I know that there are great benefits to getting good at that exam. To score well you will have to understand and execute the shot correctly. That is all pool is. Figuring out which shot to take and then executing it.

If you want to hear more from people that have taken the test then go to azbilliards . com Search their main forum.

Dr Dave is really a great resource to have when you are trying to get better in pool, but implementing all his advice is a long process. Basically you are going to get worse until you master all of the shots/theories, then you are going to get better.

How much better depends on how much work you put into it plus your natural ability.

I ended up with a 56 on the exam (not bad for my first try IMO). F7 - Wagon Wheel and F8 - Grid Target Drill kind of killed my score. I'll have to give a go at Exam II when I get a chance but will check out AZ Billiards forums for this exam in the meantime.

my question is where does dr dave buy those little circle stickers with the holes in the middle that show him where to place the ball? Anyone know? I looked today with no luck

If you go into the exam section of the site and look under Exam I - Fundamentals you'll see Table Setup Instructions. Within that pdf it mentions in the first sentence "Before you practice or do an official trial for the BU Exams, we recommend you place “little white donuts”
(self-adhesive hole-reinforcement labels, available at any office supply store)".

I personally don't find it necessary unless you plan on doing the exam on a regular basis. Most of the exam shows exactly where to place the balls for that particular part that it makes the "donuts" unnecessary.

tyvm!