EV training is the process of assigning Effort Values to stats that support a Pokémon’s role. Modern games may use vitamins, feathers, power items, training locations, minigames, or reset items. A typical competitive spread focuses on one or two important stats, but the ideal distribution depends on the format and speed or bulk goals. Keep track of EVs because there is usually a total cap and a per-stat cap. If you make a mistake, many games provide berries or other methods to reduce EVs. For a story playthrough, precise EV training is usually unnecessary.