The key is bid using mimimal parameters and don't get all fancy. And use your brain...talking to some of our PBS gurus it's amazing how many people whine because they didn't get every saturday off, but they bid a specific trip that was a thurs-fri-sat at a higher priority. or someone junior to them got the trip they wanted, but the 2 trips you requested would put you at a 30/7. Also think computer logic not common sense. For example you want all DFW layovers...don't choose "desire DFW layovers" or you will get min days off because it thinks you want to be there all the dang time since you requested it. You would have to choose "avoid " all other stations besides DFW.