G'day osulldj,

Thanks for that detailed insight into your assessment strategy(definitely not long-winded, quite the opposite-much appreciated).
I too, adhere to most of the principles you outlined. In some racing circles the general belief is that just prior to race-start, the bookmaker's market has generally factored in most of the principles you outlined. Therefore, the skilful punter can benefit if he/she can secure overlays elsewhere by way of the tote or other agencies offering "value."
One of the factors today which definitely catches the unwary is the "hype" surrounding particular horses especially if they are from one of the leading stables. The unwary punter falls into the "trap" time and again and backs the hyped runner and disregards his/her own original choice(most of the time to their own detriment).
It is usually a good rule of thumb to stick with your original choice, particularly, if it was based on sound form study.

Cheers.