A Simple Tip Every Intermediate Can Use Right Away

The quick adjustment that separates solid from sharp

When I was first learning to play, the instructor drilled it into our group…return deep and in the middle. And yes—generally that’s the safer play. But here’s the twist: mixing up your return can force more errors and make you tougher to read. When you deliberately send back some short, low returns that land just over the kitchen line, you keep your opponents guessing and mess up their third shot rhythm.

Why does this work? For one, most players at the intermediate level are still working on their third shot drop. If they’re constantly expecting a deep return, they’ll start to get comfortable setting up from a predictable spot behind the baseline. But if you suddenly drop in a short return, they’re forced to rush forward, often leading to poor footwork and mishits. Plus, this disrupts their timing and confidence, giving you more chances to take control of the rally.

What’s more, if they are concerned about the potential short return, they’ll probably stand closer to the base line, and now your deep return is landing close to their feet, or at least making them take a step or two backwards leading to a weaker third shot from them.

It’s important not to overdo it, though—too many short returns can leave you vulnerable if your opponent adapts quickly. Use it as a surprise tactic, maybe once every few points, to throw off their rhythm without giving away a consistent pattern.

Practicing this variation also sharpens your feel and control for the ball, improving your overall touch game. And as you build confidence with these short returns, you’ll notice it’s not just a defensive tool—it’s a proactive way to put your opponents on the back foot right from the start of the point. Often as they rush in to scoop that short return, they’ll pop it up for you or your partner to put it away.

So next time you’re on the courts, don’t be afraid to mix in some shorter, low returns. It’s a subtle tactic that can pay big dividends—and your pickleball buddies probably aren’t using it yet!