Value plans are most important! What are Notans? Notan is the Japanese word for dark and light. This can either be a sketchbook process or take out a canvas as I did here and time yourself. Use 2, 3, or 4 values. Premix them so you can just grab them; you'll be more likely to use more paint! Also, try rearranging the values. Put the mileage in here and you'll start seeing value plans everywhere! Use this exercise for the figure, landscapes, still lifes and abstracts. Try some using black and white gouache with small round or flat sable brushes and do small Notans in a sketchbook. Figure out the Notans of Masterworks, an invaluable exercise.