mainly to use references but add your personal twist when you do, pay attention to light source, and do your research. not exactly the best, but in my opinion are things I wish I knew when I was starting out.

one unique technique that i used to use was to do all the lineart on the same layer, and then fill the bg on that same layer so it'd be easier to color.

my favorite animal is either a bunny or a snake

being able to make my lineart look less "digital", anatomy, perspective, layer organizing, and background drawing.