Set your monitor to a calibrated reference display
Balance exposure and white balance first
Normalize the image before creative grading
Adjust contrast and black point
Set highlights and shadow detail
Correct color casts in the shadows, mids, and highlights
Match shots for consistent color and brightness
Use scopes to monitor waveform, vectorscope, and parade
Refine skin tones to look natural
Control saturation carefully
Apply creative looks after technical correction
Use curves for precise tonal control
Use color wheels for shadow, midtone, and highlight adjustments
Add subtle sharpening or noise reduction if needed
Review the grade on multiple displays
Export in the correct color space and format