Analyze the Statement First

Before you start even analyzing mechanically how a drawing works, look at it and FEEL IT.

What is it saying? Once you feel it, then go ahead and use the analytic tools to do your copy.

Anything you do that distracts from that pure statement is a mistake.

Don't add lumps to it,
don't change the direction.
Don't fill in negative shapes that help make the statement read.
Don't have cramped areas of detail.
Don't add big lumps and wavy parts.