Are SEO forums worth reading? I would have to say no. Follow the rules and guidelines set out by the major SE’s. If there is something you don’t understand learn it. Don’t take short cuts, a high ranking sites often takes years to perfect.
SEO forums are packed filled with speculations and in many cases just plain stupid information. One ends up being confused and overwhelmed.
They way I figured some stuff out was through trial and error. I also used some optimization advice from programs, such as webceo. But be cautious what advice you decide to take.
I also created a dump page, a page on my site strictly for testing. From here I can find out what works and what doesn’t. Every site is arranged differently therefore, what works for me might not work for you. The same can be said about these SEO forums. Most sites are rather unique, and too assume some of their advice will work on your site is a fallacy that many fall prey to.
So how do you do it? there are people that hire SEO freelancers which sometimes work. But the ultimate is being in control and understanding your own site.
But the one thing that is universal, be honest a write for your visitors. greek39