Snooker Break Points Calculator
Add up the points in a snooker break from the reds potted, the colour taken with each red, and whether you clear the colours at the end.
How it works
Break = reds × 1 + reds × colour value + (clear the colours ? 2+3+4+5+6+7 = 27 : 0) · Maximum with all blacks + full clearance from 15 reds = 147
A snooker break alternates reds and colours: each red is worth 1 and is followed by a colour that is re-spotted, so a red-plus-black cycle scores 8. Once the reds are gone the six colours are cleared in ascending order — yellow (2) through black (7) — worth a fixed 27 points. Taking the black with all fifteen reds and then clearing the colours produces the famous 147 maximum.
Worked example
Eight reds, each followed by the black (7), scores 8 × 8 = 64 in the red phase. Clearing the six colours adds 27 for a break of 91.
Frequently asked questions
How do you make a 147?
Pot all 15 reds, taking the black (7) after every red — 15 × 8 = 120 — then clear the six colours for 27 more, totalling 147, snooker’s maximum break.
Why are the colours worth 27 at the end?
After the reds are cleared the six colours are potted once each in order: yellow 2, green 3, brown 4, blue 5, pink 6 and black 7, which sum to 27.
What if I mixed colours during the break?
This calculator assumes the same colour after every red for a quick estimate. For a mixed break, add each red-plus-colour cycle by hand, then add the closing clearance you actually made.
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This calculator is for educational purposes. Double-check important results before acting on them.