Use sharp eXacto knife blades, not dull ones.

Put triangle pencil grips on #11 eXacto handles,  I think it is a law of physics that states that a new exacto knife will roll of the table and impale your leg or top of your foot other wise.

Wash you sprues,  seems silly but you got to get the mold release off.

Work in a well lit , well ventilated area,  personally I am liking near the computer for references.

Use references, learning about your subject is half the fun