Need guidance on programming technique

Does OP mean Old Pr*ck?

In your case, if the shoe fits... 8) Usually, it means Original Poster.

I didn't always (usually) choose the best.

That comes with experience. And, experience comes from making mistakes. Well, actually, it comes from trying something, correct or not. And, from paying attention to what worked, and what didn't, and from understanding why. All of which you seem to have done.