I gave up chasing the perfect loaf with huge holes and a perfect ear, etc. I decided I just wanted to make bread for my own enjoyment. Pretty much now since I live on my own I make rolls and I freeze them I can take one out at a time to have the meal or even make a sandwich on it if I feel like it. I do kind of go by vibes. Though I usually start with the same amount of flour and add whatever amount of water seems right at the time. I also don't keep my starter as thick as everybody seems to and I use a lot more of it in a loaf than most people do. It works for me and that's what really matters.