There are a lot of different tips and techniques to improve how your stitches lay on the canvas. They are here as pointers so that you can find your own groove and what works best for you. Every pattern is different, the goal is always for the stitcher to have a good time.
Have your stitches in the same direction
To do so, chose a corner where you'll start your stitches and a direction: you will keep it for the rest of the project.
You can start with a / or with a \, but all the stitches in your project will look better if they are made in the same order.
Don't cut your thread too long
The general advice is to always stitch with a length of thread corresponding to the distance between your fingers and your elbow. This length allows you to make a good number of stitches while avoiding getting a lot of knots due to the thread twisting while stitching. If you plan on doing a Loop start, double the length before cutting.
Untwist your needle
To do so, let your needle and thread hang from your fabric so it can unwind. It will prevent some knots when stitching
Don't pull on your thread while stitching
It can flatten your stitches and, in the worst cases, damage your fabric. Pulling your thread gently and checking your back from times to times with the back of your fingers will also help you notice if you have any small know that have appeared.