Hello /vp/,

I've come here searching for some help. Y'all seem to know much more about this game collectively than any other site I've seen, so that's why I'm asking for your help.

Anyway, a little background on me: I've only played a few Pokémon games, and never competitively. I know virtually nothing except for the very basics of the game like typing, evolution, leveling, and all that jazz. I have Diamond, Platinum, Black, and Black 2 and preordered X.

What I'm having an issue with is understanding all the complexities that come with team-building and competitive play. I had heard about Mono-type teams and was interested in building a Psychic one, but when I searched for information on it I was completely confused by the terminology and understood nothing. What I think I'm asking is: What do I need to know and understand in order to play competitively and build teams like this?

Thanks for your help in advance, OP.