Don't rush things and make sure your razor is shave ready. When in doubt, strop it out. Stropping also gives that wonderful lather more time to work it's magic. You'll find that practice will show you how your beard wants to be shaved. For my beard: first pass scything cross grain and second pass against the grain. I can get away with virtually all facial yoga and no off-hand stretching, but I'm only shaving my cheeks and neck.