There are many things a novice should consider before deciding on a pool cue. First, whether or not the player desires more control or more power. Typically, the pool cues made from harder substances will give a player more power and the cues made from softer materials will give a player more control. A good balance can be achieved between power and control. There are other factors to consider when buying pool cues…the weight, the length…even the joint. The joint is the part of the cue that connects the wide bottom section of the cue with the thin point at the top. A joint mostly determines the touch or sensation of the shot. There is also the tip of the cue and the material used for the grip (or handle) of the cue. Ultimately, the final decision is up to the individual preferences of each player. A novice player should probably consider price before style if he or she plans on keeping billiards as strictly a hobby. Would you pay hundreds of dollars for ANY piece of sports equipment for a sport you only play every now and then? The main thing to remember is that a cue can be the difference between two opponents. All other factors are identical, so a good cue can be the decider. Happy Hunting!