I have found that the books and the guys at the home improvement stores don't have all the answers. There are a few things that in my view are critcal to getting a good job when doing your own drywall work.
First, cutting drywall properly will go a long way to making it easier to finish. Also, screws vs nails. And other uncommon ideas. This webpage talks about a number of these issues.
Using Uncommon Drywall Techniques