For me it is about multiple passes, and it took me awhile to even do one ATG pass. Some guys can get BBS with one WTG, but they have also been doing it for years.

For me its lather, WTG, relather, XTG, wet face with water, ATG and touch up with water and more ATG.

I've been at this about 4 months now, and can attest that it is easy to get a decent shave early on, and that technique and learning continue with every shave. It took me about a month to get a nice BBS, and they have been coming easier since.