On Mon, 17 Sep 2007 21:16:30 -0400, "Bob D."
wrote:

Does anyone know of a good 'rule of thumb'
reference that doesn't get deep in propagation theory?

Hi Bob,

Listen for 5 minutes every hour on each band you typically have an
opportunity to work a QSO.

Keep an activity log over a week to 10 days. Repeat this daily cycle
every 6-8 weeks over a year. Repeat this bi-monthly cycle every
couple of years for slightly more than a decade. You will have your
own rule of thumb.

Start now and you won't need theory or anyone else's book. If you
make a chart across time, you may see periodicities and become an
expert. They will conform in general to what may be found in the
books too - but your charts will be tailored for you (the hardest part
of theories, and the most useful bit of knowledge not found in books).

Even 10 days work will tell you more than a book or theory.

73's
Richard Clark, KB7QHC