One thing that I've done since the early 80's is keep very detailed journals on all the days I hunt, trap, fish. Conditions, times I started, how far from the road, anything that I may not remember from year to year. That's been very valuable to me over time.
The other thing that I do, is to understand WHY I found elk, deer, pronghorn, or anything else I'm hunting in a particular area. Was it because they were there for security? Feeding? Thermal relief? Weather? Pushed there? Animals do nothing by accident, they live deliberate lives trying to dodge predators and survive in the woods. I also make notes about understanding why I was successful, and also why I wasnt successful.
That really helps with making better decisions when faced with similar situations in coming years and on future hunts. For instance, I have a pretty good idea where to find elk in the areas I hunt if the weather is hot and dry. I have a pretty good idea where to find those same elk if the weather is 10 below zero and a foot of snow.
Also, being versatile in HOW you hunt elk is key too, IMO. Some areas I hunt, sitting and glassing and finding elk first is the key. If I don't see them, I move until I do, then plan out a stalk and get after it. Other places, I may still hunt through thick timber. Other places, may sit on saddles when elk respond to pressure or be moving because of deep snow in higher elevations. If its hot and dry, probably wont find me glassing south slopes at noon, for example.
Takes a lot of time and IMO, a person never really figures it all out, and never will. But, much the way the animals I hunt do things deliberately, I do the same when hunting. I'm going to put myself in a position at a time and place with the conditions in mind to maximize my chances. Most good elk hunters I've hunted with all did the same.