Granni
the post does come across a little "Im a dentist but Im doing a heart transplant next week can someone tell me how" so don't mind the funny comments on here its all banter
but seriously, get on with a gang for a few jobs and adapt your skills to suit mono work - easy
like all render yes it needs to be flat, flat as a witches ti t. dont listen to the yeah its easy just lob it on heavy and scraoe it back......when the sun hits it it usually looks a bag of shite unless its flat
always keep a wet edge or you will see edging, keep the mix consistent or you will see shading, use the I section or you will see dishing. stick to the right thickness - too thin and you could get ghosting
Good luck matey