Yeah that is a bit confusing. I think the Cobra thing got me.
Basically, for a person learning the serve you dont want them taking a ful swing to begin with. Isolate the most important movements.
When I have sutdents learn:
1. The racket is laid on top of the shoulder with the palm facing the ear. This is the talking on the phne position.
2. the next position is drop the racket down behind the shoulder with the palm still facing the ear. It is like you are carrying something over your shoulder.
3. In order to get the above position, you might want to bring your elbow outward and then back inward as your racket drops. It is like throwing a baseball or a football or one of your children (if you have them).
4. Relax the arm thoroughly and throw your hand up. You should notice that the palm naturally turns to face forward or towards the net. That is when you want to make contact.
5. The arm and wrist should be relaxed.
Once your get the motion of the arm, you can choose whether you want to go with an abbreviated serve or a "normal" serve. Toss and motion would be adjusted accordingly along with lower body introduction.