I am trying to work my way through all these puzzles, but I can't do it without the Gane Guide I purchased on Amazon. How in the world are you supposed to figure out these things without it? dozens of possible swithch positions, so many right or wrong decisions.
I wish I could figure it out on my own.

People vary a lot in their ability and tolerance for puzzles, particularly what I would "logic" puzzles. On puzzles, some people have an easier time with inventory puzzles (which don't exist in Myst series games) or puzzles where you have to glean information from a dialogue with a character. The Myst puzzles are geared to people who like logic puzzles, and people who like what I would call mechanical puzzles. There is always at least one puzzle where you have to mess around with gears or turn on the power for something!

Taking notes helps, as well as the desire to go slowly, in the game. If it works better for you to use a walkthrough, then do that.

It also depends on what you find rewarding in the game. I like to experience the new ages, and see and hear stuff - the feeling of being there. I'm not as puzzle focused as some other people.

Yes, I agree, the puzzles can be daunting. Like moderator mszv, I much prefer being in the atmosphere of ages rather than solving puzzles and conundrums. I have found the topics in this forum to be most valuable in finding solutions to problems which at the time seemed insurmountable. As advocated in a different set of circumstances, though, - as a last resort, read the manual!

However, the beauty of all the MYST series is that there is something to appeal to everyone who loves adventure games, be they puzzle addicts, lateral thinkers or simply travellers.