I’ve built several settings before, and each time I’ve gone about it in a different way. Each time, I feel that I could have done it more efficiently or smoothly. I’ve seen many methods of creating settings, from things published by Wizards to various methods developed by players.

I want to know how you build your settings. Do you have any tips or tricks? Things you make sure to do? Articles that have helped you build settings?

Thanks for any answers in advance!

I know this will probably not come as a shock to anyone, but.... You really will find some fantastic advice in this series:

 Matt Colville, Running the Game

Particularly this video:

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=zYlLTtS-tfQ&list=PLlUk42GiU2guNzWBzxn7hs8MaV7ELLCP_&index=27

I start with a feel I want to go for (Arthurian, for example) and then build a starting town and two or three adventures near there. Then, as the characters level up, I develop a larger area, starting with adventures and then working out locales for them. I try to develop quests first and setting second, that way I'm always focused on my players' experience. When I haven't done that, my game has suffered because I've focused too much on the lore and not enough on the fun part!