My younger years, before there was such a game as Magic, were spent playing video games & chess.  Most of the video games that I enjoyed were puzzle games like Tetris, Minesweeper, and Mahjong.  Chess was my 1-on-1 competitive outlet in those days:

1. e4 e5
2. Qh5?! Nc6
3. Bc4 Nf6??
4. Qxf7# 1–0

Games of chess don't often end so quickly.  So, why do I bring up these in an article about Magic?  Patience my young padawan...

In addition to being a Magic player, I am also a Level 1 in the Judge program. I don’t judge often because I would rather play, but I do run most of the events for my local game shop including Friday Night Magic, Prereleases, and Game Days. Because of this, a lot of the newer players will ask me questions about their deck or game play or if I think a particular card is good. As a result, I have decided to start a series of articles here on the Arena that are focused on newer players and helping them improve their gameplay. For those of you who are more experienced, you may want to skip these posts. Then again, you may find some useful information in seeing another player’s perspective.

I want to apologize to my readers as I have not been active the past few weeks.  I have had some issues with writer's block.  I have had to put that article away until I can overcome it.

Greetings to the attendees of the Colosseum and viewers of The Phyrexian Arena!  You have joined us here, in the grand arena, because you want to get better at Magic.  There is a question that you can train yourself to ask constantly that will help you become a better Magic.

Imagine this scenario if you will...

You're in the finals of a Pro Tour Qualifier with the Blue Envelop on the line.  You have played tight magic all day to the point you haven't dropped a single match....