Start with smaller jumps first, then gradually increase the jump height as your timing and accuracy improves.
Perfect timing and power(placement) is vital in a jumping smash.. 1st, start off with improving your timing first. P/s take note of your position while you jump too.
i got timing and power, but my accuracy is lacking. am i suppose to use my peripheral to aim? i find it hard to see the court cause I'm looking almost straight up at the birdie
I believe you have solved your own problem. You should be looking forwards and upwards, not just upwards. You will have to aim using your peripheral vision, as you must watch the shuttle, but it is not hard to do if you are truly behind the shuttle, and taking it in front of you. Hence with a proper jump smash, you should be, in some cases, jumping slightly forwards, not just upwards.
Main thing is to contact the shuttle squarely on the stringbed, no slicing (it's a timing thing) The other thing, is your pre-jump position of your torso will determined your direction of shot once you do the rotation in the air. (straight or crosscourt shot)
Matt, nice to have you back! . Re "peripheral vision", it's not really that but taking a "mental snapshot" of your opponents position and stance just before you look up at the bird to set up your smash. Then having that "picture" in mind you'll use it to aim whether it be smash in between them or at the racket hip or down the line, or even a fake smash drop to the middle.