Interesting question, Jockomatic.
I would say that your audience, circumstances, and the nature of your enemy dictate your tactic. Also, determinative in your choice should be the nature of what you're trying to achieve. And, master many styles. Some opponents require a change of style mid-fight.
There are as many different combinations of the above criteria as there are leaves in a forest. And it all must be processed in the blink of an eye.
This is not a game for the uninitiated. It may take a lifetime of study and practice to master superior, mistake free, effective gung fu.
I have yet much to learn.
A study of and training with the masters is important.
#NorthShaoLin
⛩Bagster