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Step 1
Decide between a forehand or backhand shot. The shot works the same, but you should opt for your stronger position. If you are using a backspin shot while returning an opponent's shot, you will have to use what is best for the side of the table on which the ball is returned.
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Step 2
Open your paddle by angling it upward. The angle of your paddle is essential for imparting the spin on the ball. You should have the striking side of the paddle facing your opponent. A deeper angle will give you more spin but less power.
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Step 3
Slice under the ball imparting spin on it. If you hit the ball square with your paddle angled, the ball will rise off the paddle with little spin. You want the ball to come down off the paddle with lots of spin so you need to slide your paddle under the ball more than hitting it hard.
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Step 4
Prepare for your opponent's return. The underspin will cause the ball to bounce low when it hits the opponent's side of the table. The underspin will also cause the ball to angle down off your opponent's paddle, so ideally the ball will bounce again on their side or hit the net. If they do return over the net, it should be a soft shot that you can capitalize on.
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Step 5
Practice finding the right balance between spin and power. The trickiest part of underspin is getting the right amount of spin. Too much spin can actually cause you not to get enough power to get the ball over the net, while too much power will result in a fairly dead shot. Work on the perfect combination of angle and power.
