Learning the basics is extremely important – the most important thing in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. For, if you lack knowledge in how to execute basic techniques and setups, you will not be able to develop your game into anything significant. Therefore, learn the basics first before you try out anything else.
However, even as you get a good grasp on the basics, there’ll always be ways to refine them… Details, if you will, that will propel your Jiu-Jitsu further than you’d ever imagine.
Are you having a difficult time locking up and finishing the Rear Naked Choke in Jiu-Jitsu?
If so, it might be the case that you’re not being wary enough about your thumb line.
Frank Rosenthal explains and demonstrates the importance of hand fighting and securing the thumb line:
Sloth Jiu-Jitsu: you can be slow and unathletic and still kick butt in Jiu-Jitsu.