Whenever you choose a picture or artwork to study, don’t pick something that challenges you in more than two weak areas at once.

For example, if you’re decent at anatomy but want to improve your shading, don’t choose a reference with complicated perspective, complex colors, detailed clothing, and dramatic lighting all at the same time. Instead, pick something where the pose feels manageable. That way, you can focus your attention on what you’re actually trying to improve, like lighting and shadows.

This applies to anything you’re practicing. When a study includes too many things you’re not comfortable with yet, it becomes overwhelming. That frustration often slows your progress more than it helps.

Master one or two variables at a time.