1. Group parts by function block. This includes signal and power, isolation, coupling, and by-pass.

2. Estimate function block lay-out sizes, then sketch entire board block diagram, taking into account signal flow and potential interaction between blocks.

3. Power and signal lines must not run through blocks, but around them. This isolates power and clock noise.

4. Each individual block must be isolated from power distribution busses. This precludes use of a single power plane as in digital boards.

5. Quality of ground determines common mode noise susceptibility. By far the best and simplest way to get good ground is with a buried contiguous ground layer as in a four layer board. Use jumper wires to reduce cutting up of ground layer where neccessary.

6. To route individual blocks use parts location and orientation to effect:

a. shortest possible trace length
b. most direct signal path
c. isolation of signal input from output. (Considering both related parts & traces)

8. A rationally laid out board will "read" just like a rationally drawn schematic.

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