I haven't had as much experience as many of the other guys here by far- but from my working I strongly recommend mesh tape and pre mixed mud.
For one thing the mesh tape does not require pre-muddying to make it stick and its far easier to use and apply; and more forgiving for novices like us.
I find that the cost is almost equal for pre mixed and dry mud, and the big buckets can be much more easily sealed up and stored for future use. Make sure you get a nice drywall hawk and a concave ~14" knife for the big spreading. Larger your knife, than usually the less sanding you need to do.
I like to use a damp sponge between coats and I sand at the end. I find the sponge softens the ridges and smooths everything out nicely between coats.
For one thing the mesh tape does not require pre-muddying to make it stick and its far easier to use and apply; and more forgiving for novices like us.
I find that the cost is almost equal for pre mixed and dry mud, and the big buckets can be much more easily sealed up and stored for future use. Make sure you get a nice drywall hawk and a concave ~14" knife for the big spreading. Larger your knife, than usually the less sanding you need to do.
I like to use a damp sponge between coats and I sand at the end. I find the sponge softens the ridges and smooths everything out nicely between coats.