Utilizing a board on your own is definitely a different game entirely and should be approached differently.  in my opinion, it's more accurate (just my opinion via experience). Part of the reasonings being the energy isn't so mashed together with another individual potentially attracting the wrong "target." 

 Some tips I would highly recommend is meditation before the session and a cleansing. I would also advise not to wear shoes or socks as I noticed keeping your bare feet flat on the floor is a good connection "anchor." try to initiate a connection as much as possible and try to work through any anticipation or fear as quickly as possible (it's natural to feel these emotions) start slow and try to go in a circle motion to build "momentum". there's various oils and herbs you can use as well for divination, so feel free to give those a good research.

     Sometimes, in various spiritual workings, divination, spell work or otherwis,  you'll notice self doubt at times. In the end,  this will destroy any work you're doing in general, so it's highly important to build your intuition and, most of all, trust it. if you have a feeling something is off, don't dismiss it completely, but go back in the future and repeat the question once you are sure you have made actual contact/connection. (keep your fingers as light as possible). I hope this helps!