While the game itself is simple, ping pong requires regular practice to develop and refine basic skills. You should start by finding someone to play with who is at about your same skill level or a bit better. It’s important to find a partner who will be a good sport and not aggressively competitive, especially if you are just learning. You’ll also need a table, celluloid balls, paddles, and (ideally) a paddle cover.
The best way to learn ping pong is at a club where professional coaching is available. Ideally, the club will be affiliated with your national table tennis association and have coaches who are qualified to provide safe and expert training. Whether you want to compete or simply play socially, the coach can help you find the right stance and equipment for you.
Until the 1920s, table tennis was known as ping pong or ping-pong because of Jaques’ marketing of his game using that name. But by the 1920s, international growth forced the International Table Tennis Federation to adopt the more formal “table tennis” title. (The term ping-pong continues to be used by recreational players.)
The two games are fundamentally the same, but ping pong is generally played more recreationally than professionally and with less standardized rules. For example, in a tournament match you will play to 11 points with service alternating every two points, whereas in a game of ping pong you may not serve or your paddles might be non-standard.