There are only two requirements:
1 – The 1 ball must be at the top

2 – The 9 ball must be in the middle.

That’s it. All other balls can be randomly placed anywhere
Try to get the balls as tight as possible. In competitive play, most players will be sure all balls are touching before they break.
Here is a template for tight racks.
But if you’re just playing among friends for fun just do the best you can. Good Luck!
https://billiardsguru.com/the-rules-of-9-ball-video/

Tips for a Good 9 Ball Break

The break in 9-ball pool is a critical part of the game, setting the tone for the remainder of the match and determining who will have control of the table. It involves striking the one ball with the cue ball to scatter the racked balls and hopefully pocket at least one. There are several key tips to help you execute the perfect break.

Firstly, aim for the center of the one ball. This will give you the best chance of scattering the balls, and ideally, pocketing one. Aiming too high or too low on the one ball can cause you to miss it entirely or not scatter the balls enough.

Secondly, use proper form when taking the shot. Make sure to line up your shot, take a few practice strokes, and focus on striking the one ball with the cue ball with the center of the cue tip. Remember to also keep your bridge hand steady and avoid any unnecessary movement during the shot.

Thirdly, vary your break shot speed to throw off your opponent. A slow break can be more effective as it allows you to keep better control of the cue ball, while a fast break can cause the balls to scatter more and create more opportunities to pocket balls. Experiment with different speeds and find what works best for you.

Finally, it’s important to stay calm and focused during the break. Don’t rush or try to hit the balls too hard, as this can lead to mistakes. Take your time and focus on executing the shot correctly.

Conclusion

The break in 9-ball pool can be the deciding factor in a match, and with these tips, you can improve your break shot and give yourself the best chance of success. Remember to aim for the center of the one ball, use proper form, vary your break shot speed, and stay calm and focused. Good luck!