I am looking to learn Go. I learned the rules a few years back, but there is a mindset that the game rewards. I want to try to capture that mindset.
I have read many Go books, but they are static. They certainly have a place in my plan for learning go, but they are not everything.
I intend to play in the online Go communities, and that is where my question is focused. What is the best way to practice Go in a competitive community? Obviously I can play on varying board sizes and try to constantly win while they try to win, but is there a better way?
I play Starcraft 2, and follow the advice of Day[9]. He recommends practice games where one focuses on a particular aspect of the game (such as being observant, never slowing down your economy, or constantly attacking). This focus allows one to practice small aspects of the game independently, then put them together when you actually wish to perform (as opposed to practice).
Are there recommended ways to practice Go in this sense? I am looking for the kind of practice approaches which may hurt my chances of winning but increase the likelihood that I learn something. I have less use for practice techniques that are dependent on a willing partner, for most of my partners I expect will be out to win.