Pickleball: Key Notes & Top 25 MCQs for UPSC EXams
If you are looking for a sport that is a mix of tennis, badminton, and table tennis, pickleball is perfect for you. It is not only easy to learn but also suitable for people of all ages. Whether you want to play for fitness or compete, pickleball offers fun as well as fitness. In this article, you will learn how to play pickleball, its rules, necessary equipment, health benefits, and how you can get started. If you are looking to add something new to your life, then this guide is for you.
Guidelines and Rules of Pickleball
| Rule | Description |
|---|---|
| Serving Rules | Serve must be underhand and below the waist, diagonally across the court. |
| Double Bounce Rule | Each team must let the ball bounce once before volleying. |
| Non-Volley Zone | Players cannot volley while standing inside the kitchen zone. |
| Scoring System | Points are scored only by the serving team up to 11 points. |
| Faults | Faults include hitting out, net touches, or stepping in the kitchen on a volley. |
| Team Composition | Games can be played in singles or doubles format equally. |
| Court Size | Court measures 20x44 feet for both singles and doubles play. |
| Game Start | Serve starts from the right-hand court to opposite diagonal. |
What is pickleball, and how did it originate?
Pickleball is a racquet sport inspired by tennis, badminton, and ping-pong.
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The sport originated in Washington State in the US in 1965 and has been gaining popularity ever since.
The ball is made of plastic with tiny holes in it, and the game is played on a tiny court.
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It can be played by two or four players and is possible both indoors and outdoors.
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The game requires strategy, agility, and patience, making it physically and mentally beneficial.
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In India, too, this sport is making its place in schools, clubs, and parks.
What do you need to play pickleball?
Playing pickleball requires some special equipment, which makes it more fun.
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A lightweight paddle that is larger than a table tennis ball and smaller than a tennis ball.
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A plastic ball like a Wiffle Ball with many small holes to control the speed.
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A pickleball court's dimensions are approximately 44 feet long by 20 feet wide, with a net that is 34 inches high.
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It is necessary to wear sports shoes with a good grip to make movement easy and prevent injury.
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Initially, the basic set can be purchased online or from sports stores for Rs 2,000–5,000.
What are the main rules of pickleball?
Like every sport, pickleball has certain rules that are important to understand.
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The game begins with a serve, and the serve is made in a diagonal direction.
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Players can only serve if they are scoring; that is, only the serving team gets a point.
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The "double bounce rule" states that the ball must bounce once following the serve.
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Each game lasts 11 points, and players must win by at least a 2-point lead.
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It is illegal to hit straight shots while standing in the no-volley zone, or "kitchen."
How is pickleball good for your health?
Pickleball is more than simply a recreational activity; it's a full-body and mental workout.
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It is a great cardio exercise option that improves heart and lung capacity.
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Regular play improves agility, balance, and muscle strength.
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This sport reduces stress and provides mental freshness, which increases morale.
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It is also a safe exercise for older people because it does not require running fast.
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This sport also increases social interaction, which reduces loneliness and depression.
Essential Pickleball Gear & Their Purpose
| Gear | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Pickleball Paddle | Used to hit the ball with power and control during play. |
| Pickleball | A plastic ball with holes used specifically for indoor or outdoor games. |
| Court Shoes | Provide grip and ankle support for quick movements on the court. |
| Net System | Divides the court and ensures fair play with official height standards. |
| Sports Apparel | Comfortable clothing allows flexibility and reduces sweat during play. |
| Eyewear | Protects eyes from the sun or accidental paddle or ball impact. |
| Hat or Visor | Shield your eyes from sunlight and enhance focus during outdoor matches. |
| Grip Tape | Improves paddle hold and prevents slipping from sweat. |
| Ball Holder or Bag | Helps carry extra balls and keeps gear organized. |
Why can anyone play pickleball?
The biggest reason for the popularity of this sport is that anyone can play it, from children to the elderly.
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The rules of the game are simple and easy to understand, so even beginners can enjoy it.
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Due to the small court, the risk of injury is very low.
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It is a family-friendly game that all family members can play together.
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While playing pickleball, there is competition as well as entertainment.
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It does not require a lot of fitness to play, so everyone can try it.
What is the status of pickleball in India?
Pickleball in India is still in its early stages, but interest in it is growing rapidly.
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Pickleball clubs have been established in many states, like Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Karnataka.
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The sport is now being promoted at the school and college level as well.
At the national level, pickleball is being promoted by the Pickleball India Association.
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Leagues and tournaments are also likely to be started in the future.
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The sport is also opening up career opportunities like coaching, umpiring, and becoming an organizer.
What are some easy tips to play pickleball?
Some tips for beginners that can improve your game.
First, thoroughly try to understand the regulations and rehearse the court stance.
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Pay more attention to your serve and return, as this is the basis of the game.
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Keep an eye on the movement of the other player and be quick to react.
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Understand the “kitchen” zone and avoid hitting shots there—it’s a common mistake.
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Consistent practice and participation in small and big competitions will build your confidence.
Top 25 MCQs on Pickleball for UPSC EXams
Test your understanding of pickleball through 25 carefully designed UPSC-level MCQs covering origins, rules, equipment, scoring system, global growth, and its rising popularity as a modern sport.
1. Pickleball is a racquet sport that combines elements of which three sports?
a) Football, Basketball, Baseball
b) Tennis, Badminton, and Table Tennis (Ping-Pong)
c) Golf, Cricket, Rugby
d) Squash, Volleyball, Hockey
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Answer: b) Tennis, Badminton, and Table Tennis (Ping-Pong)
It uses a court similar to badminton, a net like tennis (but lower), and paddles like table tennis.
2. What type of ball is used in Pickleball?
a) A rubber tennis ball
b) A perforated plastic ball (similar to a Wiffle ball)
c) A shuttlecock
d) A sponge ball
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Answer: b) A perforated plastic ball (similar to a Wiffle ball)
The holes create drag, slowing the ball down and making the game accessible to all ages.
3. What is the "Kitchen" in Pickleball?
a) A place to eat
b) The Non-Volley Zone (NVZ)
c) The service box
d) The sidelines
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Answer: b) The Non-Volley Zone (NVZ)
It is the 7-foot area on both sides of the net where players cannot volley (hit the ball out of the air) to prevent smashing.
4. How must the serve be executed in Pickleball?
a) Overhand smash
b) Underhand
c) Any way you like
d) Throwing it
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Answer: b) Underhand
The paddle contact with the ball must be below the server's waist level.
5. What is the "Two-Bounce Rule"?
a) The ball must bounce twice before every shot
b) The serve must bounce, and the return of serve must bounce before being volleyed
c) You must bounce the ball before serving
d) The ball can bounce twice and still be in play
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Answer: b) The serve must bounce, and the return of serve must bounce before being volleyed
This rule prevents the serving team from rushing the net and smashing the return immediately.
6. A standard game of Pickleball is usually played to how many points?
a) 11
b) 15
c) 21
d) 40
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Answer: a) 11
However, a team must win by at least 2 points.
7. Who can score points in a standard game?
a) Both teams
b) Only the serving team
c) Only the receiving team
d) The referee
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Answer: b) Only the serving team
This is known as "side-out scoring." If the receiving team wins the rally, they win the right to serve, not a point (except in some newer rally scoring formats).
8. What is a "Dink" shot?
a) A hard smash
b) A soft shot that lands just over the net in the opponent's kitchen
c) A high lob
d) A serve fault
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Answer: b) A soft shot that lands just over the net in the opponent's kitchen
It forces opponents to hit up on the ball, preventing them from attacking.
9. When was Pickleball invented?
a) 1920
b) 1965
c) 1990
d) 2010
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Answer: b) 1965
It was invented on Bainbridge Island, Washington, by Joel Pritchard, Bill Bell, and Barney McCallum.
10. What are Pickleball paddles typically made of today?
a) Heavy wood
b) Lightweight composite materials (graphite, carbon fiber, fiberglass)
c) Steel
d) Rubber
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Answer: b) Lightweight composite materials (graphite, carbon fiber, fiberglass)
Early paddles were wood, but modern ones have a honeycomb core for better control and power.
11. Can you step into the Kitchen (Non-Volley Zone) at any time?
a) No, never
b) Yes, but only if the ball has bounced in the zone first
c) Yes, to volley
d) Only during a serve
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Answer: b) Yes, but only if the ball has bounced in the zone first
You can enter to hit a groundstroke, but you must exit immediately after.
12. What happens if a serve hits the net but still lands in the correct service court?
a) It is a fault
b) It is a "Let" and is replayed (in casual play, rules vary)
c) It is a point for the receiver
d) Game over
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Answer: b) It is a "Let" and is replayed (in casual play, rules vary)
Note: In 2021, official tournament rules changed to count "service lets" as play-on, but many recreational players still replay them.
13. In doubles play, the first server of the game continues serving until:
a) They win a point
b) Their team commits a fault
c) The game ends
d) 5 minutes pass
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Answer: b) Their team commits a fault
Uniquely for the *first* service turn of the game only, the serve goes directly to the opponents after a fault (Side Out), skipping the partner.
14. The court dimensions for Pickleball are identical to which sport?
a) Tennis singles
b) Badminton doubles (20 x 44 feet)
c) Volleyball
d) Basketball
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Answer: b) Badminton doubles (20 x 44 feet)
It fits approximately 4 pickleball courts into the space of one tennis court.
15. What is the typical score announcement format in doubles?
a) "15-Love"
b) "Your score, Their score, Server number" (e.g., 4-3-1)
c) "Your score, Their score"
d) Just the server's score
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Answer: b) "Your score, Their score, Server number" (e.g., 4-3-1)
The third number indicates if you are the first server (1) or the second server (2) for your team's turn.
16. What is the "Erne" shot?
a) Hitting the ball between the legs
b) Jumping over the kitchen corner to hit the ball out of the air
c) Serving with the left hand
d) A lob shot
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Answer: b) Jumping over the kitchen corner to hit the ball out of the air
Named after Erne Perry, it is a legal but advanced move where the player hits the ball while standing outside the sideline of the NVZ.
17. Which organization is the governing body for Pickleball in the USA?
a) NBA
b) USAPA (USA Pickleball Association)
c) FIFA
d) NFL
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Answer: b) USAPA (USA Pickleball Association)
They establish the rules and standards for tournaments.
18. What is the height of the Pickleball net at the center?
a) 36 inches
b) 34 inches
c) 30 inches
d) 40 inches
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Answer: b) 34 inches
It is 36 inches at the posts but sags slightly to 34 inches in the middle.
19. A "Lob" is used to:
a) End the game
b) Hit the ball high and deep over the opponents' heads
c) Hit the ball into the net
d) Roll the ball
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Answer: b) Hit the ball high and deep over the opponents' heads
It forces opponents at the net to retreat to the baseline.
20. If a player touches the net with their body or paddle while the ball is in play, what happens?
a) Nothing
b) It is a fault, and they lose the rally
c) They get a bonus point
d) Replay the point
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Answer: b) It is a fault, and they lose the rally
Touching the net is strictly prohibited.
21. The "Third Shot Drop" is a critical strategy to:
a) Score immediately
b) Softly drop the ball into the opponent's kitchen to allow the serving team to move up to the net
c) Hit the ball as hard as possible
d) Lob the ball
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Answer: b) Softly drop the ball into the opponent's kitchen to allow the serving team to move up to the net
This neutralizes the advantage of the receiving team, who are already at the net.
22. What happens if the ball hits the sideline or baseline?
a) It is "Out"
b) It is "In"
c) Replay the point
d) Server's choice
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Answer: b) It is "In"
Unlike some sports, if any part of the ball touches the line, it is considered good.
23. "Pickleball" was supposedly named after:
a) A pickle jar
b) The inventors' family dog, "Pickles"
c) A pickle factory nearby
d) The "Pickle Boat" in rowing
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Answer: b) The inventors' family dog, "Pickles"
(Note: This is the popular legend, though Joan Pritchard later claimed it was named after the "pickle boat" crew in rowing.)
24. In doubles, the server must serve diagonally to the:
a) Opponent directly across
b) Opponent in the diagonal (cross-court) service box
c) Any opponent
d) Kitchen
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Answer: b) Opponent in the diagonal (cross-court) service box
Serving straight across is a fault.
25. What is "Skinny Singles"?
a) Playing without a shirt
b) A singles game played using only half the width of the court
c) A game for thin people
d) Playing with a smaller ball
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Answer: b) A singles game played using only half the width of the court
This variation is popular for drilling or when mobility is limited, using either cross-court or down-the-line boundaries.
Conclusion: Add Health and Joy to Pickleball
Pickleball is not only a fun sport, but it also brings energy, health, and social connection to your life. It is easy to adopt and has no age restrictions. If you want to add activity, joy, and health to your life, give pickleball a try. The beauty of this sport is that it is simple, safe, and social—a great way to improve your overall lifestyle.
Online Courses, Reference Books, & Websites
| Category | Resources |
|---|---|
| Online Courses |
• Udemy – Pickleball Masterclass • Coursera – Pickleball Fundamentals • Skillshare – Learn Pickleball Rules & Play • YouTube – Free Coaching Channels • IPTPA Certified Instructor Series |
| Reference Books |
• "Pickleball Fundamentals" by Mary Littlewood • "Smart Pickleball" by Prem Carnot • "The Art of Pickleball" by Gale Leach • "Pickleball Bible" by Doug Fields • "Pickleball for Beginners" by James Freeman |
| Websites |
• www.usapickleball.org • www.pickleballcentral.com • www.thepickler.com • www.pickleballportal.com |
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