The spare method we are going to use is the 3-6-9 spare shooting method. For left handed bowlers reverse this method.

   For every pin to the LEFT of the head pin you leave, you move to the RIGHT on the approach according to the chart below.

2 Pin – Move 3 boards to the right – Shoot for 2nd arrow - (Your strike target)

4 Pin – Move 6 boards to the right – Shoot for 2nd arrow - (Your strike target)

7 Pin – Move 9 boards to the right – Shoot for 2nd arrow - (Your strike target)

5 Pin – Do not move – Shoot for 2nd arrow - (Your strike target)

8 Pin – Move 1 board to the right – Shoot for 2nd arrow - (Your strike target)

Based on the amount of oil on the lane you may need to adjust the move by a board or two but for most normal lane conditions this method will work perfectly.

For spares on the right side of the lane for right handers there is a slight variation of the 3-6-9 method.

For the 3 Pin – Move 3 boards to the left – Shoot for 2nd arrow. - (Your strike target)

Here’s where this method has to be modified.

For the 6 Pin – Move 8 boards to the left – Shoot for 3rd arrow

9 Pin – Move 9 boards to the left – Shoot for 3rd arrow

Again, based on the oil pattern of the lane you may have to make adjustments. That is what practice is for. To learn the lane conditions and what will work that night.

Now for the Dreaded 10 pin!

   Everyone hates the 10 pin (or 7 pin for you lefties). It’s the most frustrating leave in bowling because usually when you leave a 10 pin you made a perfect (or so it seemed) shot. It’s also the only pin that has that magnetized (or so it seems) gutter that draws the bowling ball over the edge!

   The most consistent way to make the 10 pin is to NOT hook the ball. I move 16 boards to the left of center dot and roll my ball over the center arrow directly at the 10 Pin with no turn on the ball. Flatten out your wrist (sort of like throwing a horse shoe

(Palm up with palm and fingers horizontal to the flat bowling lane))

and extend your arm straight out toward the 10 pin (almost like you

are reaching out to pick it up).

   This may take some practice but making that 10 pin

will improve your game.