There's other sites out there that have actually written simple calculation pages, assigning values primarily on the diet/speed/pooping habits of the fish. The drawback to this is you have to count on a person being honest with their inputs. But I feel it was very worthwhile for me, a newbie. I could see how diet and where the fish fed changed the index values, etc.
On the other hand, an article that could post a few A, B, and C choices, with each of their pros and cons would be very neat. Helpful too would be a brief guideline on the best look/decor for the chosen fish. (For instance, I changed my gravel's colors THREE times before I got it right! *lol*)
I've also noticed during my time here so far, everyone seems to have their own definition of Overstocked/Understocked. It's somewhat confusing, I guess because each person more or less seems to have a gut feeling or opinion about it. Some hard formulas/guidelines (although exceptions always exist, additional filtering etc.) would be really helpful, rather than 'you're overstocked!' 'He's hardly overstocked, add some more of this.'
Thank you for your very helpful articles. I've read many on Cycling, and yours answered the best questions. No one usually mentions the light levels/potential for algae, or the baking soda/hardness solution. Thanks!