How do I backorder a dropping domain on Pool.com?  How much will it cost me?
You can queue a domain for backorder on Pool.com by entering you desired domain into "Domain Search" box (homepage, left sidebar), then clicking "Backorder Now" next to the name's listing on the results page.  Should Pool.com successfully capture the domain and it turns out you were the sole backordering party, Pool.com will bill $60 to your credit card on file and transfer the domain to a holding account with one of their partner resellers (usually NameScout) for you to manage.

If multiple individuals had backordered the domain on Pool.com and Pool.com managed to capture it, a 3-day private auction will ensue among all backordering parties.  The highest bidder wins the domain name.

You could place a Pool.com backorder until the minute the day's drops begin, though backorders cannot be retracted during or within 30 minutes prior to that drop window.  Because all Pool.com backorders remain private between you and Pool.com until the drops begin, you could safely place Pool.com backorders as far in advance of the drop window as you please.