For players that don't understand the USATT rating system, it is sometimes difficult to grasp what levels / ratings mean.  At the request of the Sun City Hilton Head club, I'm posting this as a help to the table tennis community.  This is just an outline and doesn't represent all table tennis players, but I feel it is an excellent starting point.
 
 
 
 
 
Sun City Table Tennis Club – Skill Self-Ratings
 
This point rating scale - adapted from one developed by Richard McAfee, USATT Hall Of Fame Coach - estimates ratings based on the USATT’s numerical system. It is meant to be used by individual players to determine relative ability to USATT standards. The point rating can be used in entering local and sanctioned tournaments, deciding what level play to join in Sun City, and to register for training activities.
 
 
 
What is your table tennis skill level?
 

Rating

Description

Novice

0-100

Beginner (limited or no experience). Primarily working on just getting the ball into play using simple blocking techniques with little spin use. The serve is used to just put the ball into play.

101-300

Has some basic understanding of stroking concepts, but has obvious stroke weaknesses and limited movement to the ball.

301-500

Has some ability to anticipate the direction of the ball and can sustain a short rally at low speed and spin levels with players of the same ability.

501-699

Fairly consistent while hitting medium-speed and spin strokes, but not yet comfortable with all the basic strokes. Lacks execution when trying for directional control, power, or heavy spin. Beginning footwork is now apparent. [700]

Intermediate

701-900

Dependable basic strokes; has directional control with all basic strokes at moderate speeds and spin levels. Beginning to exhibit more aggressive play, occasionally hitting a "winning shot". Beginning to develop several favorite "patterns" of play. [900]

 901-1100

Has dependable basic strokes, including direction and spin control while playing at moderate speeds. Occasionally forces errors while serving and is able to return serves with moderate amounts of spin. Personal style is now becoming very apparent.

1101-1300

Is beginning to master the use of power and spin and is learning to handle pace. Style is now clearly definable, and he/she possesses several point winning strokes. Beginning to vary game plan according to opponent's weaknesses. Can strongly force his/her serve and receive against opponents of similar level.

Advanced

1301-1500

Has good shot anticipation combined with several outstanding shots that allow this level athlete to use their style against all others at their level. Can handle a medium to high level of pace and spin, however only for short rallies. Often their outstanding shot is a level or two above the rest of their game. Is beginning to master the advanced techniques necessary to complete his/her own personal style.

1501-1700

Has developed a complete range of advanced strokes and tactics. Can vary strategies and styles of play in a competitive situation and hit dependable shots in a stressful situation. Excellent footwork is evident. [1700]

1701+

Players at this level generally have had intensive training and compete regularly in USATT-sanctioned tournaments.