Here goes:
1) I bag the front yard so I don't have to sweep or blow clippings off the driveway/sidewalk.
2) On the times that I edge (like 30% of the time), I edge first so that those clippings are sucked into the mower when I mow. (efficiency!)
3) I usually cut the back at a higher height than the front, especially in the spring, so that the roots can grow strong and then I can water less in the summer.
4) Alternate the directions you cut. Week 1 cut West/East, Week 2 cut North/South. If you're super fancy you can get diagonal sometimes.
5) When you start your first cut, go off something with a good linear reference, like a straight sidewalk, driveway, or fence line.
6) Prepare yourself to smile and wave at your neighbors as their walk their dog by. Sometimes you might feel inclined for small talk. This is really the best part of lawn mowing, IMO.
7) If you can, time your mow the day before garbage day so your clippings go straight to the driveway instead of garage for a few days.
8) Crocs are surprisingly great for mowing.
9) You might top off your tank before each mow. I don't, and inevitably the thing dies way in the back yard and I have to walk up and get the gas and walk down and fill and walk back and put it away and walk back to finish mowing. (poor efficiency!)
10) Seriously, prepare to wave and smile your rough ridin' face off!
11) Also, standard dress might be some crocs or tennis shoes (no socks), some cargo shorts, and a crappy t-shirt that preferably you bought on vacation somewhere. Bonus points if it's Senor Frogs or some other Mexican drinking place.
