Pickleball is fast. It’s easy to get lost in the points and hit the ball wherever it’s easiest. However, if you want to improve and win more points, you need to move beyond reacting or just getting the ball over the net. Every shot you hit should serve a purpose. That’s the difference between just playing… and playing well.
Why Intention Matters
At every level of the game, great players have this in common: they know what their shot is supposed to do. That doesn’t mean they always execute it perfectly, but whether they’re dinking, driving, lobbing, or resetting, their shot has a goal—move the opponents, take away time, create space, apply pressure, or buy time.
Mindless hitting often leads to unforced errors, weak replies, or giving your opponents opportunities to attack. If you’re not able to explain why you decided to hit a specific shot in a specific location, it means you are not being intentional. When you hit with intention, you’re actively making a choice to control the pace and direction of the point. Playing smartly gives yourself a real chance to build pressure, rather than just surviving it.
So how do you make your shots matter?
Common Intentions Behind Smart Shots
Move Your Opponents
Sometimes your best option is to force your opponent out of position. That could mean aiming for the sidelines, sending the ball deep to push them back, or even jamming them at the body to cause an awkward return. A tip to move your opponents around is to watch their feet. Notice where they are moving, running and also the open space between your opponents.
Set Up Your Partner
In doubles, you don’t always need to hit the winner. A well-placed soft ball or a dipping drive can create a high ball that your partner can finish.
Buy Time and Reset the Rally
If you're out of position or under pressure, a drop or reset gives you a moment to regroup and move forward. It’s not just a defensive move—it’s a smart one. Once you’re back in position and balanced, then find an opportunity to attack.
Tips for Playing with Intention
Say It Before You Hit It: In practice, literally say out loud what you’re trying to do: “drop to backhand,” “drive middle,” “reset short.” This builds awareness and good habits.
Start with the End in Mind: Before you swing, ask yourself: What do I want this shot to achieve? If you don’t know, don’t hit it yet.
Don’t Just Hit the Ball—Play the Point: Pickleball is a game of strategy. Your shot should lead to the next one. Think ahead.
When to Play With Specific Intentions
Hit to move your opponents when:
They’re flat-footed or out of position
You notice a weak side (e.g. backhand)
You want to break a dinking pattern
Hit to help your partner when:
You’re out of position and need them to finish
They’re in a better attacking position than you
You’re trying to isolate a weaker opponent
Hit to reset when:
You’re off balance or deep behind the baseline
The point is speeding up too fast
Your team needs to slow down and regain control
Make It a Habit
The truth is, intention doesn’t require perfect technique. It starts with awareness. Next time you play, don’t just react, think about how your shot affects your opponent. Try to ask yourself why you decided to hit certain shots..
Want to level up fast? Stop hitting aimlessly. Start hitting with purpose. Think before you swing, and let your paddle do the talking.