Don't try to run the table unless your chances are good.
Always play to score and play safe on difficult shots.
Play a safety by shooting the ball close to a rail, which makes that ball harder to pocket for your opponent.
Better Players:
Play to control the table control. Run the table or play safe. Don't give your opponent good shots, he might run the table on you.
Visualize how to how you can score your shots and make it difficult for your opponent to score his shots. Plan several shots ahead.
In stead of trying to pocket a difficult shot, strike the object ball softly to lag the cue ball to the farthest or a nearby rail. Your opponent is left with the difficulty of striking the cue ball above center and with a raised butt and hopefully shoot with greater distance between the cue ball and object ball.
Front runners should try the more difficult shots.
