What are the basic shots in tennis?

Forehand, backhand, serve, return, volley, overhead smash and lob. Most players add the slice and drop shot next.

What is the difference between a volley and a half volley?

A volley is hit before the ball bounces. A half volley is hit right after it bounces, usually near your feet.

A trick shot hit between the legs, usually while running back for a lob.

Types of Tennis Shots

5 video lessons

Every stroke in tennis and when to use it.

Quick answer & tips ▾

Tennis is built on three core strokes: the forehand, the backhand and the serve. From the baseline you rally with groundstrokes, hit with topspin for safety or slice to stay low. The return of serve is the first shot of every point for the receiver.

Closer to the net you use the volley (hit before the ball bounces), the half volley (hit just after it bounces) and the overhead smash against high balls. Touch shots include the drop shot, which lands short, and the lob, which goes over a net player. An approach shot takes you forward, and a passing shot beats an opponent at the net.

Key tips

Learn forehand, backhand and serve first.
Add the volley next so you can finish points at the net.
Use slice and lob to defend, drop shot to surprise.
Match the shot to your court position, not just the ball.

FAQ

What are the basic shots in tennis?: Forehand, backhand, serve, return, volley, overhead smash and lob. Most players add the slice and drop shot next.
What is the difference between a volley and a half volley?: A volley is hit before the ball bounces. A half volley is hit right after it bounces, usually near your feet.
What is a tweener?: A trick shot hit between the legs, usually while running back for a lob.