Before the game: know two comps
The fastest way to climb is flexibility, not one-tricking. Open the comps tier list and learn two strong lines with different carries and cost curves — say one reroll comp and one fast-eight comp. That way your opening rounds don't force a decision; your units do. Check each comp's page for its typical board and best items so you recognize the pieces when they show up.
Early game: play your components, not your dreams
In stages 1–2 you rarely know your final comp. Build the strongest board you can from what you're given and keep your item components flexible. Use the unit pages to know which early units hold value and which of your components fit multiple carries, so you don't lock yourself out of a pivot.
Mid game: commit to the highest-value open line
By stage 3 you should read the lobby and commit. Favor a strong comp whose carries aren't heavily contested — that's the placement-plus-low-pick-rate combination we cover in how to read a tier list. Then itemize the carry our data says performs best, and level on curve while protecting your economy.
Late game: itemize and position with intent
Once your board is set, the marginal wins come from best-in-slot items and positioning. Confirm your carry's top items on its unit page, and apply the fundamentals from the positioning guide. Scout each round and adjust — the difference between 4th and 1st is usually a single repositioned carry.
The routine in one line
Know two comps, play your components early, commit to the best open line by stage 3, itemize what the data favors, and scout every round. Do that consistently and your average placement — the number that actually moves your rank — will fall.