Yes, we love it and we hate it at the same time. Occationally it takes more effort than the actual shading or coloring. Well you better spend enough time sketching, at least as a beginner. But don't worry I got you, because there are simple mistakes you can avoid doing.
1. no clear definition
Have you ever had an awesome idea or inspiration and wanted to start right away but had no clue where to start...I know it can be frustrating. Whether it was just a certain color or a whole character idea with a certain scenery. If you leave all these ideas in your head, it will only confuse you and hinder you when you want to get started.
List down what you want to catch. Some people find it easier to collect pictures on one place, others write down key words or make scribbles. Another effect you will achieve from this, is to slow down on thinking and calm down for a deep flow getting into the work.
2. drawing everthing from memory
Yes, I know you can draw a lot from your memory, or maybe not. I notice oftentimes that people tend to be overconfindant in drawing certain things and repeat some patterns over and over again without imroving. Drawing and sketching is a process that demands some growth here and there. So don't shy away from learning new things and get your references ready.
Studies can be fun too and help you to warm up for your incredible creation.
3. start at one corner
Have you ever seen these artist which can start from one corner, move on from there and in the end everything looks so perfect. You guessed it...it ain't that easy at all. If I start at one corner and then move on, the proportions are going to be all messed up. The things I want to stick out suddely are so small compared to the unimportant detail on the side.
To avoid that mistake divide your piece of paper into sections. Where is the horizon and where is the main object you wanna give importance to. You can also look up some basics like "the rule of thirds", "the golden spiral", "the s-curve", and so on. It's worth a shot experimenting with these tools to catch interest.
4. using a soft graded pencil
Another common mistake is to use a very soft pencil, which is of course super dark. I'm speaking of the 2B and above graded pencils in your pencil case. If you start dark, it will overshadow all the outlines and won't just confuse you but also the viewer. In addition to that it's way harder to erase those lines. They will smudge all your beautiful creation.
I recommend using a pencil with a grade 2H to HB. These are very light and can be easily erased, just in case.
5. overcomplicating
Last mistake I want to put on this list is to draw details and complex structures right away. Alright this one sounds obvious, but it's crutial to avoid that. If you have a complex idea in your head, break it down into simple shapes. Don't start on one corner of your painting/piece and go on from there. Some advanced artist may work like this and it turns out great, but keep in mind you are you and not someone else.
What I want you to try instead is to draw easy lines and shapes to define what you want to picture. Creating a rough sketch will take a while and don't give up right away. Great work will take its time. Keep in mind that the effort you put into your amazing piece will be the value you give it. If you have a rough sketch then you can add details.
The more often you repeat this, the better you get and eventually you don't need a rough sketch anymore.
lastly...
Don't lose your courage to draw, because the things you create with your own hands are worth a lot. Keep your gaze up and stay courious, even if people meet you with a lot of critic.
If you think this list doesn't contain something important, then let me know. Feel free to contact me on my socials.