Micro-management refers to the detailed control of individual units or small groups of units during combat or resource gathering. While macro-management (economy, base building) is crucial, effective micro can win battles against superior forces. Hotkeys are your best friend for micro-management.
- Unit Grouping: Use Ctrl + Number (1-9) to group military units. This allows for quick selection and command. Double-tapping the number centers your camera on the group.
- Focus Fire: In combat, always focus your units' fire on one enemy unit at a time, especially dangerous Myth Units or heroes, to eliminate threats quickly.
- Kiting: Use ranged units to attack and then move away from slower melee units, slowly whittling down their health without taking damage.
- Retreating Damaged Units: Pull back heavily damaged units from combat to save them. They can be healed or sent back to fight later.
- Villager Micro: Ensure Villagers are always working. Use 'Q' to cycle through idle Villagers and assign them tasks immediately.
Practice these techniques in skirmish mode. The ability to quickly switch between managing your economy and controlling your army in combat is a hallmark of skilled players.