Use a light touch when handling the dough to avoid knocking out air and maintain an open crumb
Create tension on the surface of the dough to help it hold its shape and rise well in the oven
Lightly dust your hands with flour but keep the bench slightly tacky for grip
Let the dough relax for a bench rest before final shaping to prevent tearing
Use extra care when shaping higher hydration doughs, using a bench scraper for control
Practice shaping regularly as every dough behaves differently, and the more you shape, the better you'll get
