Toy-lets

Does anyone ever actually learn the technique of unclogging a toilet? It seems like an art more than a science. Sometimes its a quick 1-2 punch and it's down for the count. Other times, I find myself working up a real sweat to unclog the same toilet. I just wonder if we really know what we're doing sometimes. I've tried to go on the web and find a clear-cut explanation (with pictures) of how the toilet really works and what happens when you clog it and how the plunger works its magic. I have yet to find such an explanation. Anyway, has anybody ever actually learned how to use a plunger or do you all (like me) just keep plunging with fingers crossed that it does its job quick-style (and not splash all over the place)?