Is Your Toolbox Too Full?

[HighKick]

This sounds reasonable. As one advances and gets that 20% of effective, high percentage basics down solid, they can start working on perfecting the other 80%. At least to keep boredom away or to deal with rare situations.

However, as one advances, that 20% becomes even more effective and adaptable (with increased skill in timing, execution, tactics, etc.) further reducing the need for that other 80%.

I think both points are true. Whether it's 20/80, 30/70 or 40/60, the fact remains toolboxes can be trimmed down, getting away from learning many techniques (inflated curriculum) over developing adaptability and effectiveness of a lesser number. The ultimate theoretical ideal would be to develop a single technique that can overcome any attack, achieving MA godhood .

The point should be made that one person's 30% will be different from another's to some extent.

I agree. The 'average' practitioner is Much better served being able to remember one technique very well. Since it could be years before they actually need to use said technique, having it well engrained is preeminent.
I suppose my viewpoint was/is more competitive in nature. Often times you had to know how to 'tweak' a technique or have another technique in the tool bag.