Deck construction is not as difficult as do-it-yourselfers may imagine, as long as you follow the KISS injunction ("Keep it simple, stupid!"). In his Lifehacker article on deck construction, Matt Haughey notes that one way to simplify matters is to remember that practice makes perfect. Haughey recommends that beginners build a practice deck first, remarking, "If you've never worked with deck screws and a drill or chop saws and 2x6 lumber, get acquainted with everything by building a mini deck."

_{Photo ©2006 David Beaulieu (licensed to About.com)}