Someone, clear this up.
Linear, Conjugate, Undulating
I am lifting almost exclusively for strength gains.
how should i periodize my training for optimal gains?

Hi
I think that if you have progress with linear periodization, stick with it.
It’s the simplest kind of periodization and works very well for a beginner.

For reading I suggest this article by Lyle McDonald about periodization

It would appear that almost any organized program will be effective in gaining strength. But IMO the guys over at Westside Barbell club and their approach to conjugate style training have yielded great results.

Some excellent articles: http://www.elitefts.com/

Good luck

I would agree with both Jim and Anatoly about keeping it simple. Most of the people get great results if they do a program which is periodized and well organized.

In linear the weight go heavier, the volume comes down

In conjucate (link or join), you are trying to bring up multiple qualities, like strength, speed, agility and so on. Almost all athletes do a conjucate style of training.

In undulating, you are changing it , like high, light, medium as in 5*5.

Unless you work up to a some heavy weights. you don’t have to worry about conjucate and all that speed stuff. Even Dave Tate had mentioned about it. And If I am right Metal Millita do not have a speed day and they have better benchers than WSB.