Clean and oil grates before starting; use a wire or non-wire brush and lightly grease with an oil-dipped paper towel to avoid flare-ups.
Preheat for at least 10-15 minutes to ensure hot grates for sear marks and a nonstick surface, preventing grayish, steamed food.
Establish direct and indirect cooking zones for different foods; use gas or charcoal to create hotter and cooler areas for optimal cooking of various meats and vegetables.
Season meat 30 minutes before grilling for better flavor and moisture retention; dry the surface with a paper towel to avoid steaming instead of searing.
Allow food to sear without frequent shifting; only check if it might be burning and ensure grill marks are properly formed before flipping.
Trap heat and smoky flavor by keeping the lid closed; opening the lid loses heat and increases cooking time, similar to an oven.
Apply glazes and sauces just two minutes before finishing to prevent burning while allowing caramelization.