The lay-up shot is one of the most commonly used techniques - and you don't have to be 6ft-plus to find the net.

Begin by learning it from a standing start, then try and learn how to do it on the run.

That is not as easy as it looks, and a lot of young players have difficulty getting the footwork right and shooting off the correct foot.

But with a bit of practice, it's a banker for two points.

Eventually you should learn to use either hand, and eventually do the reverse lay-up.

Dribbling to the net from the side of the court should give you the space needed to make the jump.

If you are approaching from the right side and are right handed, take a half step with your outside (right) foot, then take a full stride to land on your inside (left) foot, using it to push off the court.

Launch yourself off your forward leg, and thrust your arms upwards towards the net to prepare for the shoot.

Bending the knee will help provide the spring needed - and keep defenders away.

Aim to jump up towards the side of the basket and at the top of your leap, roll the ball to your shooting hand.

Try and lay the ball softly on to the backboard. If it's perfection you want, then hit the top corner of the rectangle on your side of the basket.