Hi Wister,
Great questions and something I work on quite a lot with players. I think a big common error players fall into the trap of is flat hitting to often when the ball is high. This doesn’t give your opponent much variation so they can soak up all your attacks. Variation is key!
To your questions 🙂 I think yes, definitely add some topspin especially when the ball is not that high. This will give you more accuracy and force your opponent further away from the table. Its also harder for the opponent to control the spin you put on the ball. Ideally you want to topspin until your opponent has returned weak so that the ball lands short and high on your side for you to come in and smash. If the ball lobs deep to you, take a slight step off the table, let it rise then topspin it. Stay consistent and then when you opponent has lobbed a weak ball, its there you come in for more of a flat shot to win the point.
Also when going for the topspin/smash shot aim for the opponents elbow, this tactic always works 🙂
Does this help?
