To pocket an object ball in a particular pocket, there is an area on the table where the cue ball needs to be for the shot. This area is called the shape zone, and you should always visualize this area for every shot.

A typical shape zone looks like a triangle, projecting away from the ghost ball. Other balls inside of a shape zone will create "shadows" or dead spots where the cue ball will be blocked.

Try to use a cue ball path that maximizes your chances of leaving the cue ball in the shape zone.