Okay this is embarrassing but my serve is awful. I hit the net probably 50% of the time and when it does go over, it's high and easy to smash. What am I doing wrong? I've watched YouTube videos but they all make it look so easy!\n\nAny tips? I mainly play doubles if that matters.

Nothing embarrassing about it - the serve is actually one of the hardest shots to master!\n\nFor doubles, you want a LOW serve (also called a short serve). Here's the technique:\n\n1. Hold the shuttle by the feathers in front of you, waist height\n2. Racket face slightly open (angled up just a tiny bit)\n3. Use your THUMB to push the racket forward - minimal backswing\n4. Contact the shuttle below waist height\n5. Aim to get the shuttle to just clear the net and land on or near the front service line\n\n**Common mistakes:**\n- Too much backswing (causes inconsistency)\n- Hitting too hard (it's a gentle push, not a hit)\n- Wrist too loose (keep it firm)\n- Aiming at the net cord (aim 2-3 inches above it)\n\nPractice: Set up a target (empty shuttle tube) on the front service line. Serve 50 shuttles trying to hit it. Do this every session as a warmup.

Another trick from my playing days: after the serve, immediately get your racket UP ready at the net. The serve is just the start of the point. Beginners often serve and then stand there watching the shuttle come back - by which time it's too late to react. Serve, racket up, ready for the return. Make it one fluid motion.