Keep in mind that this is not necessarily true with all four strokes. I always start mine the same way I'd start a two stroke, you just have to give a little more pressure during the flip. But sometimes, whether it's due to fuel ratio, weather conditions, or whatever, when you try to flip it throught the compression, it will predetonate and kick your hand back in the other direction (It REALLY wants to pop!). It usually won't run backwards because the pressure you were putting on it will keep it from reaching the next compression stroke. Ok, so I will usually give it a quick flip in the opposite direction, letting the stick slide off the end of the prop and usually (when it's in this condition) it starts.

Now, some guys, depending on their starting proceedure find that their engine is usually in this condition, so they just don't bother trying to flip it counter clockwise anymore.

Ya just do whatever works!