One of the first things people hear when they start playing pickleball is "Keep your paddle up.”

It’s good advice, but incomplete.

From the kitchen to the baseline, the correct position changes based on what kind of shot your opponent is about to hit.

At the kitchen: Ever seen someone let the paddle drift lower and lower during a longer rally? Think about it the next time you play, and make the correction if necessary to keep your paddle out in front.

Transition zone and at the baseline: There’s no always-right position in these areas, but the key is simple: Keep the paddle in a spot that’s ready for the next ball. Whether that’s out in front, low, high, or somewhere in between.