Shake it up: Typically, by the time the cocktail shaker becomes moist with condensation (about 30 seconds of vigorous shaking), the cocktail is well mixed and ready to be poured.
Put a lid on it: If you don't have a cocktail shaker, you can use a jar with a secure screw-top lid.
The art of ice: Ice mellows the alcohol burn and introduces the spirit to the palette by opening flavors and aromas.
Top it off: The term for pouring extra alcohol on top of a drink is called a float. To create a float on top of your next cocktail creation, slowly pour the alcohol over the back of a cold spoon held over the drink to create a double-layer look. Remember, the denser, heavier ingredients (like cream) will sink to the bottom, so pour those first.