What is your step-by-step process for building graphite values and layering?

[Avery.W]

I'm a self-taught artist trying to improve my realism in graphite pencil drawings, and I feel like my shading is holding me back. My gradients often look streaky or muddy, and I struggle to achieve smooth transitions and deep, rich darks without overworking the paper. For artists skilled in pencil shading techniques, what is your step-by-step process for building up values? I'm particularly interested in your choice of pencils, paper texture, blending tools (like tortillons versus tissue), and how you layer to avoid a shiny, over-polished look. How do you plan your value structure before you start, and what exercises helped you most in developing a light touch and consistent pressure?