5 Pickleball Techniques Every Beginning Player Should Master

Pickleball is more than just a game of power; it’s a game of precision, control, and smart decision-making.

While athleticism is helpful, mastering the core techniques will make you a more consistent and strategic player. These skills allow you to keep the ball in play, control the pace, and ultimately win more points.

The better your technique, the better you’ll be able to handle tough opponents and tricky situations on the court.

#1 - The Dink Shot

The dink shot is one of the most important and effective shots in pickleball.

This soft, controlled shot lands just over the net, forcing your opponent to come forward and play the ball at an awkward angle. Mastering this shot will allow you to control the tempo of the game and set up opportunities for more aggressive play.

How to Perform the Dink Shot:

• Hold your paddle loosely to allow for a soft touch.
• Focus on keeping the ball low and just over the net.
• Use a locked wrist to guide the ball, keeping the motion controlled and gentle.
• After dinking, position yourself slightly behind the kitchen line to be ready for the next shot.

Common Mistakes:

• Hitting the ball too hard or too high gives your opponent the chance to attack.
• Not stepping back behind the kitchen line after your shot can leave you vulnerable to fast returns.

#2 - The Volley

The volley is a shot that is taken before the ball bounces.

It’s crucial for net play, especially in doubles, where quick reflexes and control are required. Mastering the volley will allow you to stay aggressive at the net and keep the pressure on your opponents.

How to Perform the Volley:

• Keep your paddle up and ready to react.
• Use a firm (but not too tight) grip, especially when facing fast shots.
• Focus on directing the ball rather than swinging at it. A compact motion is key.

Common Mistakes:

• Not having your paddle out in front of your body, which leads to mis- and overhits.
• Not hitting the ball down toward your opponent's feet.

#3 - The Serve

A strong, consistent serve sets the tone for the entire point.

It’s the only shot you have full control over, so it’s important to practice different serve variations and master them.

How to Perform the Serve:

• Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, and hold the ball at waist height.
• Use an underhand motion, ensuring you strike the ball below your waist.
• Focus on depth and placement, aiming for different spots on the court to keep your opponent guessing.

Common Mistakes:

• Tossing the ball too high, making it harder to hit consistently.
• Overemphasizing power, leading to inaccuracy.

#4 - The Drop Shot

The drop shot effectively controls play and forces your opponents into a slower-paced game.

It’s a soft, delicate shot that lands close to the net, forcing your opponent to scramble forward. Executing a good drop shot puts your opponent in a defensive position and doesn't allow them much space to attack from.

How to Perform the Drop Shot:

• Hold the paddle with a loose grip to keep the ball soft.
• Aim for just over the net, keeping the ball low to force your opponent forward.
• Be ready to move forward on a good drop or split step and get your paddle low if you hit one that is too high.

Common Mistakes:

• Hitting the ball too high, giving your opponent an easy putaway.
• Hitting the ball too low, causing it to fall into the net.

#5 - The Third Shot Drive

The third shot drive has become a critical shot in doubles pickleball.

It's a ball that's driven hard (similar to tennis) and its main purpose is to provide you with an easier fifth shot. Sometimes, hitting a drive will win a point, but you shouldn't rely on that to win the rally. Instead, you want to focus on keeping your drive low and moderately paced to not give up too easy of a ball to putaway.

How to Perform the Third Shot Drive:

• Position yourself near the baseline after the serve.
• With a loose wrist, focus on hitting through the ball right after it bounces.
• Aim for your opponent's backhand to reduce the chance of a strong fourth shot.

Common Mistakes:

• Rushing the shot, leading to less control.
• Hitting the ball too hard, which ends up going out of bounds.

Mastering these pickleball techniques will significantly improve your game, helping you become a more consistent, strategic, and well-rounded player.