google update again

So the google update was here again few days ago - sending some joy and some sorrow - as usual. Until now, there is still speculation of how to get a higher PR and how to avoid being demoted but the real truth is, you can never know unless you are Google. In the past, it's all about building links and the more backlinks you get, the better your chance in getting a higher PR. But I have also heard that some bloggers with stagnant and inactive sites had received PR by surprise. So, it's hard to tell, isn't it? You may be following all the rules yet you may not get a PR raise but to ensure a smooth PR journey, the best is probably to steer clear from paid links or posts...