Hey guys. :)

I began playing PLO in the last month after looking for a change. I struggled to enjoy NLHE so figured I'd find some interest in a game I've touched a little bit but not too much, so figured I'd check PLO out for a bit.

After this month I've played about 18k hands, running a $90 deposit up to $260, moving myself from PLO2 to PLO5.
Problems is I've encountered a bit of variance which has curbed my confidence, and made me realise that my game isn't that sharp. Hence why I came to RIO and purchased an essential membership.

The videos I've been watching have been great, and have made me realise some flaws in my game.

Couple of questions though.

What's the optimal strategy for moving up in the microstakes? With the rake trap should we be trying to play more cheaply preflop in spots where it might be +EV to 3bet in higher stakes?

Should I be avoiding zoom in total? My HUD doesn't work for zoom which might be a good reason for me to avoid it, but would I be better trying to learn the game by learning my opponents rather than playing a game style in which I'm just playing my hands to a standard?

What other advice do you guys have for moving up in the microstakes?

Thanks guys!