Never work on a tree that is not healthy.

Choose the style best suited for the species and the particular tree.

Exposed roots should radiate from all sides of the tree. Roots should anchor the tree firmly to the earth. In most cases, they should create a flaring or swelling but not look like something pulled from a swamp.

Look for good movement and taper in the exposed trunk when choosing the front of the tree.

Develop proper branch location, taper, and ramification.

The top of the tree should be well formed.

The size, shape, style, clay, and glaze of a pot must be appropriate for the tree.

When repotting the tree, consider the position of the tree in the pot for overall balance. The tree should be neither too high nor too low in the pot. Most times, a tree should not be placed in the center of the pot but slightly right or left of center. finally, be observant of the angle of the tree as it goes into the pot. A few degrees could make a lot of difference in terms of overall balance.

Patience is a virtue to be practiced without end.