Pickleball isn’t just about quick hands and fast reactions — it’s a thinking game. The players who win more points usually make better decisions, not harder shots. If you want to play smarter and stay one step ahead, these seven strategy basics will instantly upgrade your game.
1. Get to the Kitchen Line Early
The non-volley zone (aka the kitchen) is where points are won. Moving up to the kitchen line gives you better angles, faster reactions, and more control. After your serve or return, your first goal should always be to advance forward safely.
2. Keep the Ball Low
Low shots force your opponents to hit up — and that’s your advantage. Dinks and soft drops that stay low reduce attack opportunities and lead to mistakes. Remember: power matters less than placement.
3. Aim for the Middle
Hitting down the middle creates confusion. It removes sharp angles and often causes hesitation between opponents. When in doubt, the middle is a high-percentage target that wins more points than risky sidelines.
4. Master the Third Shot Drop
The third shot drop is one of the most important shots in pickleball. Instead of hitting hard from the baseline, use a soft, arcing shot that lands in the kitchen. This allows you to move forward and reset the point on your terms.
5. Be Patient During Dinks
Dinking rallies reward patience. Don’t rush to attack a ball that’s too low — wait for a clear opportunity. Many points are won simply because one player tries to force a winner too early.
6. Attack the Right Ball
Not every ball is attackable. Look for shots that sit up above net height. Attacking low balls leads to errors, while smart aggression on high balls puts pressure where it belongs.
7. Play With Intention
Every shot should have a purpose — move your opponent, create space, or set up the next ball. Random hitting leads to random results. Intentional play leads to consistency and confidence.
Pickleball strategy isn’t complicated — it’s about choosing smart shots, staying patient, and controlling the rally. Focus on these seven decisions, and you’ll notice fewer mistakes, longer rallies, and more wins on the scoreboard.
Play smart. The points will follow.
