The basics in 1 minute

The aim

Hit the perforated ball over the net with a paddle so the opponent cannot return it legally. Play singles or doubles.

Scoring

Standard scoring awards points only to the serving side. Games are usually to 11 with a winning margin of 2; rally scoring is a separate provisional option.

Key rules

• Serve diagonally beyond the non-volley zone; a service fault has no routine second attempt.
• The serve must bounce before the return, and that return must bounce before the serving side plays it.
• Do not volley while touching the kitchen or its lines; momentum after the shot also counts.