The 2018/19 season is less than two weeks away and Fantasy Premier League managers are stepping up their preparations.
Here The Scout explains how to cover all of the FPL fundamentals.
Transfer strategies
FPL managers' moves in the transfer market can have a big impact on their seasons.
With one free transfer for each Gameweek, managers can snap up form players or cut-price gems, or swap out those who are injured or suspended.
Adopting some key transfer strategies can help gain an advantage.
Rollover transfers
It is not essential to make a transfer before each Gameweek deadline.
Instead, a free transfer can be "rolled over" to give you two transfers for the following Gameweek.
This can make a greater impact when freshening up your squad.
By transferring out two players, you can often free up funds to bring in an expensive option that you might not have been able to afford.
Resist temptation
It is a good idea to begin the season with this strategy.
Build your opening squad with the first two Gameweeks in mind, allowing you to carry over your first transfer.
When possible, it is best to avoid spending four points on extra transfers or taking unnecessary points hits.
But saving transfers and combining a hit with two free swaps can be a very effective tactic.
Mini Wildcard
By doing so, you can sign three players for a cost of four points, increasing the chances that one of those new players will pay off that four-point debt.
This was a strategy adopted by each of the last two FPL winners.
Reigning champion Yusuf Sheikh saved his one free transfer in 10 Gameweeks.
He made three transfers in a single Gameweek on four occasions.
Strategy of champions
And 2016/17 winner Ben Crabtree saved his transfer in nine Gameweeks.
He then spent extra points on transfers seven times.
Changes in tactics or form, or the arrival of a new manager can also influence transfer market moves.
Managerial changes
For example, Abdoulaye Doucoure (£6.0m) and Richarlison (£6.5m) were both popular early picks at Watford last season.
But their output dropped off sharply following the departure of manager Marco Silva.
All seven of Doucoure's goals, and all of Richarlison's five goals and eight assists, were produced before Silva left in Gameweek 24.
Fantasy managers who acquired either player in the opening stages benefited from their early rises in price before a loss of form sent their costs tumbling.
Keeping an eye open for such situations can help guide managers' plans and help preserve vital funds.
Also in this series
Part 1: FPL secrets: How to build a champion's squad
Part 2: FPL secrets: Finding the right formation
Part 3: FPL secrets: Selecting the perfect captain
Part 5: FPL secrets: The best time to use your chips
Part 6: FPL secrets: Bonus-point kings offer critical edge
