Formatting - Your post need not be a circus. If you are not good with formatting, then stick to a theme that is light and descent in colors and the post layout. If you are good with trying new stuff then use that skill to better express through colors, fonts and layouts. Avoid colors that are dark and fonts that are overtly bright.

Focus on good content, not on monetization. Over time, money and benefits with follow good content.

Always acknowledge a comment on your blog and respond to the commentator, preferably at his own blog. Its great to reciprocate the gesture.