One thing that I will emphasize is play around with shot patterns. Use bigger shot towards your float and small shot towards your bait or lure. Adjust the shot according to the type of water you are fishing. For example a real fast pocket and you will want all your shot at the connection of the leader and main line, or if your are fishing a slow pool make a gradual taper so the bait stays ahead of the float. Many people don't pay attention to this and it can make or break your day. Also for float selection, stick with fixed floats in IMO unless you are fishing really deep water, slip floats for me never swim right. The line always wants to come through the float especially when holding it back. Hopefully this didn't confuse you too much. The Dave Vedder book has some basic shot patterns for you too look at and you can go from there.