A chip is a shortened groundstroke. It is very much like a volley. It is created usually with a continental grip. Keeping your racket face open is the key to this shot being successful. A chip is not a drop shot. The chip is used when you have little time or you want to pull a player into a zone where they are not comfortable. A drop shot is more of a point winner, not as reliable.
 
When to chip:

• When you are receiving a very high bouncing serve, try to make contact below your eye level by moving forward.


• When you are receiving a very hard, fast serve. If you are stationary, chip low crosscourt. If off balance, chip a lob over the net player.


• When your opponent is hitting an overhead at you, return this shot off the bounce just like a volley. Do not add pace; try to the take pace off.


• When you are hitting an approach shot and you want to pull the deep receiver forward to take away their lob and hard low drive at your feet. Hit this chip shot short; make them play forward out of their comfort zone.


• When you have been over hitting the easy second serves, try chipping softly and coming in to the net behind it. This is very high percentage and forces your opponent out of their comfort zone The chip is often a very under used shot. Many players never use it. Most players do not like to play against under-spin. If used sparingly, it can be very effective. Keep adding it into the mix to keep your opponents off-balance.