The perfect electional chart does not exist. A critical skill is learning how to weigh testimonies and make intelligent compromises when reality imposes constraints like scheduling, availability, or conflicting astrological factors.

The Hierarchy of Compromise:

1. Non-Negotiables (Never Compromise):
   • A radical chart (e.g., not during an eclipse, not with an early Ascendant).
   • A non-Void of Course Moon.
   • Key significators (like the Ascendant ruler) not retrograde or combust.
2. High Priority (Compromise Reluctantly):
   • The essential dignity of key planets (e.g., you want the 10th ruler in its rulership, but will accept it in exaltation or triplicity).
   • A perfect applying trine between main significators (a sextile is a good compromise).
3. Lower Priority (Can Compromise):
   • The accidental dignity of non-key planets.
   • Minor, applying squares (if the endeavor requires dynamic energy).
   • The Moon being in a less-than-ideal sign.

The Process of Weighing Testimonies:
List all positive and negative factors. Do the positives for the core goal significantly outweigh the negatives? Is there a major prohibition? If not, the chart may be "good enough."

Examples in Practice:

• Example: Scheduling a Surgery
  • Ideal: Mars (surgeon) strong in Aries, trine Ascendant.
  • Reality: The only available date has Mars in Gemini (weaker essential dignity) but it is still direct and forms a sextile (a slightly weaker but still harmonious aspect) to the Ascendant.
  • Judgment: This is an acceptable compromise. The core needs are met: Mars is direct and applying a good aspect. The essential dignity is less critical here than the accidental condition and aspect.
• Example: Launching a Business
  • Ideal: The 10th ruler (Jupiter) in Sagittarius, trine the Sun.
  • Reality: Jupiter is in Pisces (exaltation, still strong!) but square the Sun. However, the Sun is also the ruler of the Ascendant, which is strong.
  • Judgment: This is a difficult compromise. The square introduces tension between you (Sun) and the business (Jupiter). This might mean constant effort is required. It may be "good enough" if all other factors are stellar, but a better chart should be sought if possible.
• Example: A Wedding Date
  • Ideal: Venus in Taurus, trine Jupiter.
  • Reality: Venus is in Libra (also rulership!), but is retrograde.
  • Judgment: This is a non-negotiable compromise. A retrograde Venus is a major prohibition for a wedding, suggesting love based on the past or future re-evaluation. Reject this date.