A correct technique improves accuracy. Wash your hands with warm water and dry them, since food residue or dirt can skew readings. Insert a fresh strip, prick the side of a fingertip (less painful than the pad), and gently encourage a drop of blood without squeezing hard, which can affect the result.
Rotate which finger you use to avoid soreness, and store strips correctly, as heat, moisture, and expiry can make them unreliable. Note your reading along with the time and whether it was before or after eating, which helps you and your clinician spot patterns.
Meters vary, so follow your device's manual. If a reading seems surprising or does not match how you feel, wash your hands and retest. Continuous glucose monitors are an alternative for some people. Ask your pharmacist or diabetes nurse for a technique check if results seem off.