Tips on Return of serve

Returning for Success
After the serve, the second most important shot in tennis is the return of serve. A good return neutralizes the server's offensive play forcing the server to take more risks and consequently increasing the chances of the returner gaining command of the point.
In doubles play there are a few keys (tips) for a successful return, the returner's position when receiving serve, placement of the return and position after the return.
The first question we come to is where to position ourselves as a returner. A general starting point is on the baseline and one step inside the single sideline. Adjustments will be made depending on the speed and depth of the serve. Strong serves will require extra time therefore the returner must position themselves further away from the server. On the contrary, weaker serves allow the returner to be more aggressive, therefore positioning should be closer to the server.
The placement of the return is another key factor in gaining control of the point. The three main target areas are cross-court, middle, down the line and lob the service partner. With all of these shots emphasis should be placed on control and not power in order to maintain a higher percentage of accuracy. The singles sideline should be used as a guideline for all returns as to allow for a margin of error.
When returning against a strong server the player should choose a deep cross-court return or lob the server’s partner. Both of these shots will allow the returner to regain balance and court positioning. Weaker serves allow the receiver team to gain offensive court positioning.
The last factor to consider is where to go after the return of serve. When returning a strong serve, the receiver generally is in a defensive position, therefore he/she should assume a position behind the baseline in anticipation of an offensive shot by the serving team. After returning a weaker serve the receiver should move forward and take position inside the service line. This position allows the receiving team to play more offensively and raises their chances of winning the point.
Keeping these ideas in mind will assist in making better choices when selecting a return. No matter which shot is selected the decision should be made before the point starts and should be communicated to the partner. This will allow the receiving team to stay focused on their goal of breaking serve.