Photo Lesson: How to Hit the Twist Serve

The twist serve is more difficult to produce than the other kick serve, the topspin, but it's also more difficult to return. Both serves have generous net clearance and a high bounce. The twist also curves to the receiver's right in the air and to her left on the bounce, making it harder for the receiver to line up and also putting it more often on the receiver's backhand, where high balls are usually troublesome.

• Use the grip closest to the Eastern backhand (moving from Continental) that still allows you to make clean contact with the ball. Moving toward Eastern backhand gives you stronger spin, toward Continental easier contact.
• Toss the ball so that you'll be able to meet it a little behind your head and a little to your left.