Expert: Chamale - 7/9/2008

Question
How do I Ev train? Can you please tell me step by step?

Answer
EV points give your Pokémon boosts in a specific stat. When you beat any Pokémon, the Pokémon in your team that killed it gains 1 to 3 EP, or Effort Points. Every 4 Effort Points a Pokémon earns gives it 1 stat point higher. Each Pokémon can earn up to 510 EP, so a single stat could have a potential gain up to 127, or you could raise every stat by 21. That, incidentally, is as big as the difference between a strong "regular" Pokémon and most legendaries.

So, here are instructions for EV training.

1. First, get a chart on what Pokémon boost certain EVs. One of the best is at   http://www.serebii.net/pokedex-dp/hp.shtml

2. Next, figure out what you want to do with your Pokémon, and how you should raise their EVs. You can use a well-rounded approach, but a better idea is to try to raise specific stats. Be sure not to waste any training on stats you will not need. For example, do not raise Alakazam's attack, because it's too low to do much anyways. If a Pokémon has one very low defense stat (Like the Special Defense of Rock-Types, or Blissey's Defense), raising it is a better idea than raising HP. However, for this example, suppose you wanted to raise HP.

3. Once you know what you want to do, find the right area. Ideally, all the Pokémon there should be of low level, and most of them should raise the stat you're trying to increase.

4. Train. The Counter in the Pokétch is useful for keeping track of how many EPs you've gained. When you reach 510, total, you can stop. Meanwhile, keep the training Pokémon in front, and only defeat enemies who give you the right EP. Just run from the others.
Note: EV training can get very boring, so it's a good idea to have a TV on in the background or something, because it can take a while.

If you have any more questions, feel free to ask.