You pack the grate

THE RESULT: You can’t manipulate the heat.

THE FIX: Most food cooks best with a combination of direct and indirect heat—but even when you plan on cooking over direct heat only, don’t cover 100% of the grill. It’s always a good idea to leave yourself an open space so you can reposition food if flare-ups occur. You should aim to have no more than two-thirds of the grill covered.