$2 and $4 180s at Pokerstars

I've played a lot of $2 turbo 180s at Pokerstars and have a decent ROI on them. Recently I've moved up to the $4 180s and, as I imagined, the play is entirely different and the overall skill level is miles better than the $2 turbos.

I'd like to discuss some of the strategies recommended by players out there who play these $4 180s.

I don't play the 180s. The $2 is turbo and the $4 are regular speed. I'm sure there's plenty of fish in both, but I find that turbo and regular speed attract different kinds of fish.

They are most definitely different games requiring different strategies. The $2 turbos have players who play much looser and Ace rag is a favorite hand for an all in with them. Part of this I think is the lesser talented playing micro stakes (not that I'm any kind of poker genius--but I do have my moments ) and part is due to the nature of the turbo structure where at some point you likely find yourself having to gamble in order to keep up. I'm wondering if the non turbo $4 and up 180s are more like mtts than sngs and, as such, should be approached with those types of game strategies?

I played a $4 180 last night and placed 3rd. I probably should have done better, having the chip lead with only 3 of us left, but losing focus in just one hand at a final table can cost you dearly as we all know.

Initially I played a very tight game, aggressive with premium holdings and didn't get fancy with any of my play. This helped me steal a few blinds and antes later on, but I did find myself having to suck out and get lucky on a couple of hands to get to that final table--not something I want to plan on happening that often!

So my question to the forum for discussion is about specific tournament strategies and games plans for this type of tournament from start to middle to end game. I'm interested in hearing about M benchmarks to watch for throughout the different phases of the tournament, varying your playing style, etc. I'd like to move my game at this level as far away from the shove and pray luck style as I possibly can.

Thanks in advance for all opinions, advice and help.