The backhand smash is an offensive shot typically used to end rallies, or to counter someone else hitting a smash. I will be teaching the easiest version of the smash to learn. Hold your paddle in the grip shown in the image below. 
If your opponent hits a ball that you think you can smash, follow these steps.
- Bring the side of the paddle that your finger is on to hit the ball
- Hit the ball downwards, or if it is a lower ball that you want to smash, bring your paddle up at the endd of the swing
- In doing this, make sure that you do not hit it so it goes out.
- It is possible, even likely, that your opponent will receive your smash and hit it back in, so be prepared to keep rallying.
Here are a couple reasons why you are probably missing your smashes:
- You are rushing, as in you are overeager to smash the ball and you are not patient enough, and you hit the ball into the net or out.
- You are not moving enough to smash properly. This means that, if a ball is on the side of the table, you are just staying in place and reaching for the ball. You should move your feet and get in a better position to smash.