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Experiment with different shading techniques like hatching, cross-hatching, and stippling to render various textures. This helps to bring out the realistic feel of the different surfaces in your still life drawing.

Pay attention to the negative space — the area around and between the subjects — as this can be as important as the objects themselves in structuring your drawing.

Create small thumbnail sketches to explore various compositions and viewpoints before committing to the final piece. Thumbnails help with visualizing the overall design and can save time in the long run.

Whenever possible, draw from a real-life arrangement instead of a photograph. Drawing from life provides a better understanding of three-dimensional space, depth, and accurate colors.

Don't neglect the space around your subjects. A thoughtful background can lead to a more finished and cohesive work of art. Choose a background that complements the objects without drawing attention away from them.

Divide your drawing process into timed sessions. This can help you balance the detail and prevent overworking one area. Time management is essential for both practice and intricate work.

Employ measuring techniques such as the pencil method to ensure proportions and angles are accurate. This can be done by holding up a pencil (arm fully extended) to compare different sizes and angles within your composition.

Begin with the most general shapes and forms to block in the composition before adding details. This ensures that the overall structure is sound before you focus on the specifics.

Identify where your light source is coming from and understand how it affects the shadows and highlights on the objects. This will add depth and realism to your drawing.

Before starting your still life drawing, take time to consider the arrangement of objects. Look for interesting overlaps, negative spaces, and the balance of elements. A strong composition can greatly enhance the impact of your artwork.

Build up shades and details gradually with layers of pencil marks. Starting with light pressure allows you to refine the drawing as it progresses without committing too soon to dark lines.

Practice creating a value scale and apply it to your drawing to make sure you have a full range of tones from white to black. This will give you more control over the mood and realism of the piece.

Maintain accurate proportions by constantly comparing the size and distance of objects to each other. This prevents distortion and maintains the credibility of your still life.

Design your still life with a clear focal point that draws the viewer's eye. This could be achieved through contrast, detailed rendering, or placement within the composition.