As you move up the ranks in pickleball, strategy becomes increasingly important to winning matches. 

Applying the right tactics against the right opponents can be the difference between victory and defeat. 

To take your game to the next level, there are key strategic concepts you need to learn before your next time on court.

Let’s review 6 essential pickleball strategies to give you an edge over your competitors.

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Strategy #1: Apply Ernie Pressure

The Erne shot, when you jump through or around the kitchen to attack a ball, is an aggressive play. 

Executed well, it's a tremendous weapon. But even if you never go for the shot, acting like you might Erne applies pressure. 

As you approach balls near the kitchen line, be dynamic and quick on your feet. Opponents will feel they can't simply avoid your backhand all match – you might Erne! This plants a seed of doubt that forces errors.

Strategy #2: Hit Down Volleys

In rallies at the net, striking down volleys gives you control. Hitting up invites attack. 

Paddle face slightly closed and swing with compact motion downward through the ball. 

This takes time to master, but down volleys drop shots force opponents to lift weak replies. Then punish their pop-ups for winners.

Strategy #3: Target the Inside Foot

When dinking backhands, hit low tight shots aimed inside your opponent's back foot. 

This is an awkward area most players handle poorly. Keeping the ball low reduces their ability to attack. 

And even if they reach it, shots off the inside foot lift up for easy put-aways. Make them prove they can cleanly handle balls to the inside foot.

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Strategy #4: "Make One More Ball" Mentality

When defending, even good rallies, stay patient and keep the ball in play. Avoid pressing or taking big risks trying to end the point. 

Extending the rally puts pressure on attacking opponents as they feel they should have already won. 

Just focus on making one more return, even from the baseline. You only need one chance to reset the point or force an error.

Strategy #5: Play Smart Shots

When in a tough spot or uncomfortable, don't go for unrealistic winners. Instead, play a smart shot to re-establish control. 

For example, move back and lift a high defensive clear. Or block the ball into open space away from opponents. 

Smart shots set up your next winning shot. Stay patient and set yourself up.

Strategy #6: Recognize the Triangle Effect

In doubles, when your partner speeds up a shot cross-court, immediately anticipate the reply coming diagonally to you. 

Your opponents form a triangle around the court. Shift over and prepare to strike an attackable ball fed right into your strike zone. 

Watch your partner and recognize the triangle effect so you can capitalize.

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Conclusion

Applying savvy pickleball strategies gives you an edge over less strategic opponents. They simply react, while you act with purpose. 

Follow these essential tips on Ernie pressure, down volleys, attacking weak spots, patience, smart shots, and triangle positioning. 

Strategic execution leads directly to more wins and advancement. Don’t just play - play smart! 

Use your pickleball IQ to strategically outmaneuver competitors.

FAQs

What are some effective strategies for returning serve in pickleball?

On the return of serve, try hitting deep returns or aiming between your opponents in doubles. This keeps them back and prevents them from rushing the net. You can also vary placement - down the sidelines or crosscourt.

How can you counter a banger in pickleball?

Don't try to out-hit a banger. Keep shots low to limit their power options. Move them around and don't let them get set. Stay patient and wait for a chance to win the rally with smart shots. Good communication with your partner is also key.

What are some differences in strategy between singles and doubles pickleball?

In singles, you want to move your opponent around more since the court is bigger. In doubles, aim more shots up the middle to create confusion. Serves and service returns also differ - be more aggressive in singles but creative in doubles placement.

Why is hitting down important in pickleball?

Hitting down volleys (downward trajectory) gives you much better control than hitting up. Down volleys tend to force weaker replies from opponents, leading to put-away opportunities. Mastering down volleys is key.

What are some common mistakes pickleball beginners make?

Two frequent beginner mistakes are staying in 'no-man's land' between the kitchen and baseline, and trying to hit every shot hard. Beginners also often use inappropriate paddles and forget basics like watching the ball.