At present I play on PandaNet as 6- or 7-dan, but although I do OK in the opening, I have a tendency to do badly when the stones get tangled with each other. I study life-and-death problems, but I just can’t overcome this tendency. In particular, I have trouble with people who resort to brute force. Can you give me any advice on how I should study? Consultation One: Mr. Kato Hello, Mr. Kato. Thank you for your question. 6- or 7-dan is quite strong. I think that you are studying in the right way, with life-and-death problems. You say that you have trouble with opponents who rely on sheer fighting strength, but playing people you have trouble with is a chance to get stronger. You should try to play with such people as much as possible. Life-and-death problems have many local problems. You should try to get stronger by getting into whole-board fights in your games. Understanding your weak point is the first step to progress. Please enjoy the challenges of actual play.