I really have to learn NOT to micro-manage every fleet since the AI is that good. I should just make sure that every fleet is well balanced (capital ships, flak,fighters,bombers).
Yeah, sometimes you just have to let go

I do have to manage the battles sometimes though, if it's a close contest or if I'm outgunned. Sometimes I can at least take out a cap ship or two and weaken them enough that I can have another fleet mop up.
The AI has kicked my ass a couple times already too. I'm starting to get the hang of it though I think. Really gotta reinforce your positions and pay attention to choke points. So that you don't have to have fleets for every planet. Oh, and use pirates to your advantage. Send them after the other guys if you're not prepared for them. Otherwise, let them come and get your ships some experience
"The whole problem with the world is that fools and fanatics are always so certain of themselves, but wiser people so full of doubts." -- Bertrand Russell (I think...)