Skill Level Guide

You have limited experience and are primarily focused on keeping the ball in play. Basic knowledge of the game's rules is emerging.

You lack court/playing area experience, and your strokes or shots need development. You are becoming familiar with basic positioning and strategies for singles and doubles/team play.

You are learning to judge where the ball/shuttle is going and can sustain short rallies at a slow pace with players of similar ability. Movement and reaction times are improving but still inconsistent.

You are fairly consistent when hitting medium-paced shots but are not yet comfortable with all shot types or strokes. You may struggle with directional control, depth, or power. In doubles/team play, you often default to basic formations and strategies.

You have improved consistency and directional control on moderate shots and can execute basic defensive and offensive strategies. You are developing better movement, teamwork (in doubles), and positioning, as well as an understanding of when to attack or defend. Net play is becoming more confident.

You have dependable strokes or shots, including directional control and depth on moderate-paced shots. You can execute basic specialty shots, such as smashes, drops, lobs, or spins, with occasional success. Footwork and reaction times are improving, and you can apply tactics to force errors. Teamwork and communication in doubles are evident.

You demonstrate greater control over shot placement, depth, and power and can consistently execute spins, smashes, and other advanced techniques. Your footwork is solid, and you can adjust your play style to your opponent's weaknesses. In doubles, aggressive net play and coordinated strategies are common.

You have excellent anticipation and can consistently force errors or win points through powerful, precise, or well-timed shots. You can execute advanced techniques such as deceptive drops, powerful smashes, spins, and volleys with consistency. Your game is built around at least one outstanding strength.

You have mastered power, consistency, and variety as key elements of your game. You can confidently adapt strategies during play, execute shots under pressure, and maintain a high level of play in competitive settings. Your shot-making is dependable, even in high-stress situations.

You have received intensive training for competitive play, including national or professional tournaments. You consistently compete at a sectional, national, or international level and are ranked or recognized for your skill.

You compete regularly in professional tournaments and have achieved significant rankings or recognition at the national or international level. Your game shows exceptional mastery of all aspects of play.

You are a world-class athlete in your sport, competing at the highest professional levels (e.g., World Championships, Olympics, or elite international circuits). You have achieved international recognition and success.