One of the simplest ways to stop working and reworking a painting is making sure before you start to paint that you know where everything you intend to paint sits in space. That may seem obvious. But watching students, I realize it is not.

By creating a simple diagram of where each object sits in space before you start to paint makes the process of carving depth on your canvas easier.

That diagram clarifies both your drawing and your perception. Less reworking. Less confusion.