Starcraft 2 Gameplay part 2

Now we know what macro is when it comes to starcraft 2 gameplay, so it's time to put that preliminary knowledge to good use. We'll go with an example here. Perhaps the strongest build currently for protoss is the 4 gate push. If you can get good at a 4 gate push it's very hard to stop. Players in the very highest competition ladders use the 4gp with devastating results. Combined with good macro it's a build that is a winner.

The first thing you need to do is figure out exactly what it takes to execute a 4 gate push. We cover the basics in another article, but a little searching around will find you other good resources that will give you a great overview and even in depth analysis of the build. And that's the second part of good macro. You already know that when playing as a protoss that you need to use a good build and then learn to macro that build well. Now you know that a build called the 4 gate push is a great build. next, you need to have an understanding of why it's a good build and what all the parts of the build mean.

Once you've gained the first two things - knowing what to do, understanding why to do it, you're ready for the last bit - and that's practice. The best way to begin practicing macro is in single player mode. Just run the build over and over in real time against the computer. Use the stats analysis in the game to figure out what you're doing well compared to the pros (you can look at replays of the build along with stats) and just keep practicing that one build until you can do it without even thinking about it. This will free up your mind in matches to worry about micro without dropping the ball on your macro.

Practice will get the build into your subconscious and train you to hit all the right hot-keys every few seconds. It will ensure maximum worker uptime and resource collection as well as precision when it comes to getting the proper units and buildings into play the instant the materials are available. Once you can do all of the build at just the right times - you're ready for practice under pressure in matches. And that's where the rubber really meets the road. Get good at the build in solo play, but perfect it under pressure during matches.

Playing one build over and over until it becomes second nature is the very fastest way to improve your starcraft 2 gameplay. All you need ot do is know what to do by finding the best builds, study those builds so that you understand them, and then practice the build in solo and match play until you can do it basically with your eyes closed. While that may sound like it will take a ton of time, it's really not that bad. And since it will improve your gameplay more than anything else you can do per unit of time - why not give it a shot?