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Subject: Re: Which is the most accurate database of games to learn Opening lines?

Author: Jason Williamson

Date: 09:16:51 09/23/00

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On September 22, 2000 at 17:36:32, Stephen Ham wrote:

>Dear Terry,
>
>Jeroen is correct. One should use database statistics only as a very general
>guide.
>
>Consider this: Somebody plays a tricky new move and wins with it. Others
>discover the tricky new move and win with it too. Let's assume that after a
>period of time, the line acumulates 9 wins. However, at some point, an opponent
>finally busts the line because it was not intrinsically sound. So the fact is,
>the line is no good, but the statistics say that out of 10 games played, it won
>90% of the time. So Terry, what are you going to believe, the statistics or the
>truth?
>
>Database statistics would thus lead one to belive that good lines are "bad" and
>bad lines are "good". Instead, my advice, Terry, is to forget about what that
>statistics say and play openings that you both think are good/best and you feel
>comfortable playing.
>
>Good luck, Terry.
>
>Stephen

The above doesn't really hold, since if enough peopple (read 9) think its good
for the tricky move and lose with it, the database will suddenly be at 50%.  So
eventually, the refuted move will correct it self.  This of course assumes you
update your database.

On the other hand, nothing will match your own eye, and a good opening book on
the variations you want to study.


JW



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