Best Way to improve

Given the experience of the commentators here, how did you improve? I have no doubt that I could slowly improve by playing people of the same rating at 10 or 15 minute time controls, but there must be something better? 

And by no means do I want or expect to improve fast, I just want to improve steadily. 

Is there a ratio of time to play versus studying games?

Is there a correlation between online and actual board play?

Should a beginner even study a grandmaster's games, since the strategy is so far above them? 

So the question is , based on your opinions, how did you improve the most as a beginner? 

P.S. I would still like your opinions, but if there is a guide to this already could I be linked to it as to not waste your time? 

Is there a better way to rephrase this. I know it depends on the person, but a general idea would be nice.

Greetings,

Several articles have been written on chess.com about this topic.

Just type in "how to improve at chess" in the search bar above.

See the links below for starters:

http://www.chess.com/article/view/three-key-ways-to-improve-at-chess-part-1 

http://www.chess.com/article/view/three-key-ways-to-improve-at-chess-part-2

http://www.chess.com/article/view/three-key-ways-to-improve-at-chess-part-3

What I find the most helpful is to play standard games at long time controls that is 30 minutes or more a move. More time to think helps to avoid blunders/ mistakes.

I am no longer a beginner but not good enough to be considered an intermediate chess player.

Hope this helps! 

Address your weaknesses, and then work on them!

For most the best thing to do is work on calculation ( get a tactics book!)

Other things involve improving positional chess

A coach may be helpful to assess your needs and formulate a training plan, but you can try improving on your own first