I am the manager of a go group with about 30 members which has a study meeting every Sunday. In October, we are going to start treating the opening. Can you tell me what is the best order in which to study the opening (from Shusaku to the present)? Also, do you know of a good joseki book? Please tell me if there are any special points I should keep in mind when studying the opening. Consultation Two: Mr. Hiramatsu Thank you for your question, Mr. Hiramatsu. It’s difficult to say what is the best study method, so I’ll just give you my own ideas. Concerning the order, I think it would probably be a good idea to briefly touch on the development of opening theory from the past to the present. It’s fun to find out about the leading players at the same time as you look at changes in opening theory. I think if you go through the first 50 moves or so of a game, that will be enough to cover the opening. During this process, you may discover a player you particularly like, and playing over his or her games should help you to improve. Concerning a joseki book, josekis are constantly evolving, so unfortunately there are no definitive books, but the Joseki Encyclopedia (Joseki Daijiten) systematically analyses a large number of josekis, so it would be a good book. Please study in a leisurely way and enjoy yourselves.