Does knowing how to play many variations make you a better player?

Personally, I believe the variants are too different. Obviously, if you're very good at one, you can probably adapt to others, but I don't see how playing a bit of everything, with them being so different, can help you improve overall. I would focus on one, but it's not like my word is the truth.

I don't think so. It just gives you more knowledge, but it can't help you play better poker. Just knowing the different variations will not help you in tournament poker, for example. They are different aspects.

It's more the limits than the types of game. Any game played at no-limit is a lot more risky than at pot limit or limit. You might like to try out stud or razz if you can find a site that caters for them.

this will only add to the confusion, it's better to choose one thing and concentrate on it