1. Set a Screwing Interval

   For walls, most professionals secure drywall panels with screws driven every 8 inches along the edges, and every 16 inches through the center (field) of the panels. A typical 4 x 8-foot sheet of drywall will require about 32 screws when installed on a wall. For ceiling panels, the field interval is usually shortened to 12 inches, with the same 8-inch edge intervals.

   To avoid damage along the edges of the drywall panels, you may want to slightly offset the edge screws so they aren’t abutting from panel to panel.

   Most pros simply eyeball the position of the screws when driving them, but you can also use a pencil to mark the location for the rows of screws across the field. This can help ensure that you hit the studs as you drive screws.

2. Illuminate the Wall

   Sidelight on the wall will make it much easier to monitor the depth of the screws as you drive them. A painter’s work light set to the side of your work area works well, but any ordinary lamp set close to the wall will also cast enough sidelight to let you work effectively.

3. Prepare the Drill

   Mount a new Phillips-head screw bit into your drill. Avoid worn bits, since they sometimes strip the screw heads. (You can also attach a drywall extension bit to your drill, if you have one.) If your drill has a side handle, attach it for an improved grip.

   If your drill has an adjustable clutch, adjust the drill’s torque down to its lowest level, which will help prevent the drill from driving the screws too deep.

4. Begin Driving the Screw

   Lean your weight against the drill as you begin driving the screw at a slow speed. Without enough pressure, the bit may strip the screw head as it gets farther into the wood. The more pressure you can create, the better control you will have as the screw head reaches the paper. As you drive, watch the progress of the screw from an angle.

   Slow, consistent speed results in a better-installed drywall screw. The best option, if you can do it, is to drive and and sink the screw-head in one smooth action, without stopping the drill. Should you need to stop, no fear. Just make sure the driver bit is secure on the screw-head, give the drill some pressure, and slowly begin screwing again.

5. Finish Driving the Screw

   Slow and stop the drill as the head of the screw reaches the paper and a dimple forms. When the screw is perfectly sunk, the edges of the paper around the circle will be slightly rounded inward. If the edges are sharp, that means that the screw went down too far. But if you don’t drive far enough, it will be difficult, if not impossible, to cover the screw head with taping compound.

   Should you drive the screw too far, the screw head will completely puncture the paper and end up buried in the gypsum core of the drywal panel. This means that the screw is not properly holding the drywall to the stud.

   If you hear a popping sound, it means the head of the screw has punctured the paper, and that you’ll need to dry another screw alongside the failed one. It is not necessary to remove the failed screw; the hole can be mudded over with taping compound during the finishing process.

via: https://www.thespruce.com/driving-and-sinking-drywall-screws-1821493