At close range how do you know when to eye gouge or throat strike and when to elbow knee and head butt ?

If you're talking about street rules, you should know that these weapons are only used when you are very close, at least one foot away from your opponent. The longest range tool is probably the throat strike. This technique could be used as an entry into closer range. Once in close, it's a matter of feeling the other person's body and knowing how it will react. This relies on natural body mechanics. If you knee, chances are the upper body bends forward. That should pave the way for headbutts, elbows and gouges. Sometimes you are in close and you may gouge first to create that initial reaction and follow with headbutts. If you start with elbows first, that might push him back and will naturally lead you into a clinch for the other weapons. It all depends on where you are and what the situation is.